Дуранкулак-Големия остров, Archaeological site on Big Island, Durankulak, Bulgaria

Дуранкулак-Големия остров is an archaeological mound on an island in Lake Durankulak, about 2 km southeast of the village of Durankulak. Its cultural layers are 3.20–3.50 m thick and hold seven stratigraphic horizons, six of which (I–VI) are fully excavated. A wooden bridge over the lake gives access to the open-air museum.

Settlement on the island began around 9,000 years ago, when early communities moved into this part of what is now Bulgaria. Over the centuries, the community grew and built more solid structures, developing into a larger, organized settlement.

Objects found here show that some people held a special rank within their community. Gold figurines and copper items were placed with specific individuals, pointing to social differences in this early society.

The site is in a remote area of northeastern Bulgaria, not far from the Romanian border, so it is worth checking access conditions before visiting. Guided visits may be available, and planning the trip in advance makes the journey easier.

Among the finds are some of Europe's oldest known stone-built homes, dated to around 6,700 years ago. These houses had several rooms and were unusually large for their time, suggesting the community put careful thought into how they organized their living space.