Скално светилище Зайчи връх, Megalithic sanctuary near Kabile, Bulgaria
The Zaychi Vruh rock sanctuary is an ancient megalithic site near Kabile featuring two perpendicular trenches carved into a rocky plateau. These trenches extend approximately 12 meters east-west and 15 meters north-south, representing an impressive engineering achievement of the ancient builders.
The sanctuary originated in the early Bronze Age and shows evidence of continuous settlement activity from the second millennium through the early Iron Age. This extended period of use indicates the site maintained spiritual and social importance for communities over many centuries.
The sanctuary displays a relief carving of the goddess Cybele at the intersection of two trenches, showing how ancient Thracians expressed their spiritual beliefs through rock art. The depiction reveals the close connection between their religious practices and the natural landscape surrounding them.
The site sits on an exposed rocky plateau, best visited in clear weather when views of the surrounding landscape are optimal. Sturdy footwear is recommended as the ground is uneven and paths lack formal markings.
The trenches follow precise astronomical alignments with cardinal directions, with specialized observation areas that allowed tracking of seasonal solar movements. This arrangement reveals the builders possessed sophisticated knowledge of celestial mechanics.
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