Мегалитно светилище под Царев връх, Megalithic sanctuary near Tsarev Peak, Bulgaria
The Megalithic Sanctuary beneath Tsarev Peak is a sacred site in the Rila Mountains located between Markov Peak and Tsarev Peak, containing multiple stone structures positioned between 2000 and 2200 meters elevation. The location displays altars carved into rock, ceremonial basins, and other archaeological remains spread across a large territory.
Archaeological excavations between 2001 and 2006 uncovered artifacts spanning from the Late Bronze Age through the pre-Roman period and into Late Antiquity. These findings show that people used this location as a spiritual center across thousands of years and multiple cultural periods.
The stone altars and carved basins visible here connect to local legends about Krali Marko, a figure from regional folklore who left his mark on the mountain. These features reveal how people used this location as a sacred space where spiritual activities took place over many generations.
This high-altitude mountain location requires sturdy footwear and preparation for demanding terrain conditions along the Rila ridge. Weather at this elevation changes quickly, so bringing warm or extra clothing is sensible planning for any visit.
A trilithic stone structure at the site aligns with the summer solstice sunrise, showing that ancient people here possessed sophisticated knowledge of the sky and seasons. This architectural choice reveals how closely these inhabitants observed and measured celestial events for their spiritual practices.
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