Round Church, Preslav, Medieval Orthodox church ruin in Veliki Preslav, Bulgaria
The Round Church is a ruin with a circular main chamber and rectangular entry space, surrounded by a columned courtyard and remnants of decorative tiles. The layout follows Byzantine design patterns and shows traces of elaborate decoration in its remaining sections.
The church was built in 907 under Prince Simeon and served as the center of religious life in the Bulgarian capital. It stood during the height of the Bulgarian realm before being destroyed and left as ruins.
The walls bear scratches and names left by visitors and pilgrims across centuries. These marks connect people across time at a place that held deep spiritual meaning for its community.
The site lies within the Veliki Preslav archaeological zone and is part of an organized museum area. Visitors can reach it and view the structure, but should expect uneven ground and minimal facilities at the ruins.
The circular design was unusual for church architecture of that era and shows Byzantine influence in a Bulgarian context. This blend made the building stand out and set it apart from other religious structures of its time.
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