Karadzhov kamak, Ancient megalith sanctuary in Mostovo, Bulgaria.
Karadzhov kamak is a rocky plateau summit of 1448 m in the southeastern part of the Gradishte ridge, Western Rhodopes, near the village of Mostovo. Its cliffs rise over 100 m and enclose a plateau of 4550 m², where a huge boulder is wedged in a narrow natural groove. The only approach is from the southwest through an 18 m-high rock gap called Boaza, with about ten worn steps cut near its top.
Archaeological work led by Dr. Ivan Hristov of the National Archaeological Institute with Museum (NAIM-BAS) in 2003 and 2004 established that Karadzhov kamak served as a sanctuary in the Early Iron Age and Late Antiquity. Pottery found between the rocks dates to the second phase of the Early Iron Age (8th–6th century BC), while coins found nearby point to use from the late 3rd to the early 4th century AD. The plateau was declared a protected area by Decree No. RD 1015 of 6 August 2003.
The name Karadzhov kamak refers to the huge boulder wedged in a narrow groove in the cliff wall. Local people call the only approach to the plateau Boaza (the Gap), an 18 m cleft whose upper part shows about ten steps cut into the rock and worn by rainwater. The last few steps up to the top were cut by the Thracians.
The site is best reached from Asenovgrad by road through Mostovo village, with parking available near the base of the location. Wear sturdy shoes, as the terrain is uneven and covered with rocks.
The last few steps of the wooden stairway to the top were cut by the Thracians; they are weathered and easy to miss. The only approach to the plateau is from the southwest through an 18 m high rock gap called Boaza, where about ten worn steps are carved at the top.
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