Horizont Thracian Tumulus, Northeast Bulgaria Travel Guide

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Explore the ancient Horizont Thracian Tumulus in Bulgaria, revealing the mysteries and rich heritage of the Thracian civilization from the 4th century BC.

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Horizont Thracian Tumulus

The Horizont Thracian Tumulus, near Starosel, Bulgaria, is an ancient burial mound dating back to the 4th-5th century BC, offering insights into Thracian culture and beliefs. It stands as the only discovered Thracian heroon with columns, showcasing early Doric architectural influences.

A brief summary to Horizont Thracian Tumulus

4175, BG

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Horizont Thracian Tumulus.

Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more serene experience.
Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain around the tumulus can be uneven.
Bring a camera to capture the stunning panoramic views from the top of the mound.
Consider hiring a local guide for deeper insights into the history and significance of the site.
Check local weather conditions before your visit, as the site can be less enjoyable in bad weather.

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Explore Horizont Thracian Tumulus on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Horizont Thracian Tumulus, mapped for you.

Getting There

Car

If driving from Plovdiv, take the road towards Hisarya and then follow local signs to Starosel. From Hisarya, the tumulus is approximately 15 minutes away. Parking is available near the site. Be aware that the final stretch may be on smaller roads, so using a GPS device or map application is recommended.
Public Transport

To reach the Horizont Thracian Tumulus by public transport, take a bus from Plovdiv to Hisarya. Buses run regularly, and the journey takes about 1 hour. From Hisarya, you can hire a taxi to the tumulus for approximately 10-15 BGN. Alternatively, check for local buses from Hisarya to Starosel, though services may be infrequent. Bus tickets from Plovdiv to Hissarya typically cost around 5-8 BGN.
Taxi

From Hisarya, hiring a taxi directly to Horizont Thracian Tumulus is a convenient option. Agree on the fare before starting your trip; expect to pay around 10-15 BGN for the journey, which takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Taxis are readily available in Hisarya.

Discover more about Horizont Thracian Tumulus

Nestled in the heart of Bulgaria, near the village of Starosel, the Horizont Thracian Tumulus is a captivating historical landmark that unveils the mysteries of the ancient Thracian civilization. This burial mound, dating back to the 4th-5th century BC, is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the region. The tumulus is part of a larger necropolis of eight mounds, with the Horizont Tumulus standing out as the largest known Thracian mound.Opened in 2000, the Horizont Thracian Tumulus has been a sensation for specialists and tourists alike. The tomb is located on a hill in a picturesque area overlooking the Thracian plain, at the foot of the Sredna Gora mountain. The site reveals intricate burial practices and reflects the social and cultural dimensions of the Thracians. The entrance, 1.60m wide, is adorned with ornaments known as “wolf's teeth”. Constructed from well-crafted stone blocks held together by iron brackets cast with lead, the tomb includes a grand staircase, two lateral chambers, a corridor, a representative facade, and both rectangular and circular chambers.What makes the Horizont Tumulus unique is that it is the only discovered Thracian heroon which has columns - ten in total. The columns feature capitals in the early Doric style. Inside, excavations have revealed gold and silver objects, indicating that a member of the Thracian aristocracy was buried here. The Thracians, who inhabited these lands from the Neolithic period to the Middle Ages, were known as skilled farmers, craftsmen, and merchants. Their religious beliefs combined solar and earthly elements, and they revered the Great Mother Goddess Bendida. After death, rulers were often equated with deities, and their tombs became shrines.Visitors can explore the impressive structure, wander through the site, and absorb the tranquil ambiance. The stunning panoramic views from the top of the mound provide an unforgettable backdrop for photography and contemplation. Guided tours are available, offering deeper insights into the historical context and significance of the tumulus.