Hisar Kapia, Medieval gate in Old Town, Plovdiv, Bulgaria.
Hisar Kapia is a medieval gate in Plovdiv's Old Town, built on Roman foundations from the 2nd century. The structure features large stones bonded with red brick and white mortar, with carefully worked stone arches visible above the opening.
The gate was built in the 11th century as one of three entrances to the medieval city, reusing Roman structures beneath it. Over centuries, it was maintained and adjusted by different rulers, which explains its mixed appearance.
The gate reflects layers of different peoples who shaped Plovdiv over centuries. Walking through it, visitors see how Roman stones and medieval brick were combined, showing how each era left its mark on the structure.
The gate is centrally located in the Old Town and easy to reach on foot while exploring the narrow cobbled streets. It serves as a natural meeting point and connects several walking paths through the historic quarters.
Below the cobblestones lie remains of the original Roman gate that most visitors walk over without noticing. Looking at the two different building styles in one place shows how builders from different eras used their own methods.
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