Kovachevsko kale, Roman fortress in Popovo, Bulgaria

Kovachevsko kale is an ancient fortress near Popovo with protective walls arranged in a triangular layout reinforced by multiple towers for defense. The site contains remains of buildings, storage areas, and underground water systems that show how people lived and worked here.

The fortress was built in the early 4th century as part of Rome's border defense system in this region. It was later destroyed after suffering several attacks throughout its existence.

The name comes from the nearby village of Kovachevets, called Kovachovets in Karel Škorpil's time, which is why the Czech archaeologist recorded it as Kovachoveshko kale. Excavations by Veliko Tarnovo University have uncovered a large 4th-century building identified as a horreum, or granary, over 60 m by 25 m with a 2.4 m double door. The site is a protected monument of culture, listed in the State Gazette no. 70 of 31 August 1976.

The site is located west of Popovo and reachable on foot, though the path crosses open terrain where sturdy shoes are recommended. Visitors should bring water and sun protection, especially on warmer days, and allow time to explore different areas of the ruins.

The site's granary, over 60 m by 25 m, had a double door 2.4 m wide and walls 1.3 m thick with external buttresses. It was built in opus mixtum with two storeys and a basement, and was plundered and burned around 378 AD, probably by the Goths.