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Chit Kaya Thracian Sanctuary: Ancient Mysteries in the Rhodope Mountains

Discover the ancient Thracian secrets at Chit Kaya Sanctuary, where history meets breathtaking natural beauty in Bulgaria's Rhodope Mountains.

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Explore the Chit Kaya Thracian Sanctuary, an ancient site nestled in Bulgaria's Rhodope Mountains. Discover well-preserved rock carvings and ceremonial areas, offering insights into the spiritual practices of the Thracian civilization amidst stunning natural scenery.

A brief summary to Chit kaya Thracian Sanctuary

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on rocky terrain.
  • Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities nearby.
  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
  • Consider hiring a local guide to enhance your understanding of the site's historical significance.
  • Respect the site and refrain from touching the rock carvings.
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Getting There

  • Car

    If traveling by car from Kardzhali, head northwest on the E85 towards Haskovo. After approximately 10 km, turn left onto the road leading towards Chit Kaya. Follow the signs for Chit Kaya Thracian Sanctuary. The sanctuary is about 5 km from the main road and is well-marked. Parking is available near the site. There are no tolls or parking fees.

  • Public Transport

    To reach Chit Kaya via public transport, take a bus from Kardzhali to Glavatartsi. Buses run regularly. From Glavatartsi, arrange for a taxi or local transport to Chit Kaya Thracian Sanctuary, approximately 7 km away. Confirm the taxi fare beforehand, expect to pay around 10-15 BGN. A one-way bus ticket from Kardzhali to Glavatartsi costs approximately 3-5 BGN.

  • Taxi

    From Kardzhali, a taxi directly to Chit Kaya Thracian Sanctuary takes about 20 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around 15-20 BGN for the ride.

  • Walking

    If you are near Chit Kaya, hiking to the sanctuary is an option. The hiking paths offer scenic views of the Rhodopes. Ensure you have appropriate footwear and water. The hike can take around 1-2 hours depending on your starting point. The path is marked with red tourist markings, starting from the village of Shiroko Pole.

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Discover more about Chit kaya Thracian Sanctuary

The Chit Kaya Thracian Sanctuary is a captivating historical landmark located in the Rhodope Mountains of Bulgaria. This ancient sanctuary dates back to the Thracian civilization, a culture known for its rich traditions and mysterious rituals. Visitors can marvel at the well-preserved rock carvings and ceremonial sites that offer insight into the spiritual practices of the Thracians. Set against breathtaking natural scenery, the sanctuary provides an escape from modern life. As you wander through the site, you'll encounter rock formations used for centuries as places of worship, connecting visitors with the ancient past. The tranquility of the surrounding wilderness enhances the experience, allowing tourists to immerse themselves in the history and beauty of this remarkable location. Chit Kaya, translated from local Turkish as "the built rock", is a unique archaeological, cultural, and natural site. It is located on the eponymous peak, at an altitude of 392 m, south of the village of Lisitsite and southeast of the town of Kardzhali. The village of Lisitsite is reached via the longest rope bridge in Bulgaria, a structure with a length of 260 meters, which passes over the Studen Kladenets dam. After the bridge, a hike leads to the peak of Chit Kaya. The Thracian fortress of Chit Kaya dates back to the 4th – 1st centuries BC and was part of the Thracian defense system. It occupies an area of about 1200 sq. m along the ridge of the peak. From the west and south, the peak is naturally protected, as the hill has steep walls. On the southern side of the rock massif, approximately 50 trapezoidal niches have been cut out, a typical element of Thracian rock-cult architecture. At the foot of the rocky peak, traces of a Thracian settlement have been recorded, including burial mounds and ruined graves. There is also a single-chamber, semi-spherical tomb carved into the rock. From Chit Kaya, there are visual connections to other ancient fortresses in the area.

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