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Mezek Fortress: A Byzantine Stronghold

Discover a medieval Byzantine fortress near Mezek village, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into Bulgaria's rich history.

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Explore the ruins of Mezek Fortress, a remarkably well-preserved Byzantine stronghold dating back to the 11th-12th centuries. Located near the village of Mezek, this fortress once guarded the lands between the Maritsa and Arda rivers, offering panoramic views of the surrounding Thracian Valley.

A brief summary to Mezek fortress (Neoutzikon)

  • Mezek, BG

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain within the fortress.
  • Visit the nearby Mezek Thracian Tomb to explore more of the region's ancient history.
  • Bring water, especially during the summer months, as there are limited facilities on-site.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Svilengrad, take the road towards the Bulgarian-Greek border. Turn right towards the village of Mezek. Follow the signs within Mezek to reach the fortress, located on Kaleto Hill. Parking is available near the fortress entrance. Note that the road leading to the fortress is narrow and may be unsuitable for large vehicles.

  • Walking

    From the center of Mezek village, follow the main street northwest. Take the second turning on the left, which leads out of the village. Continue for approximately 500 meters to reach the tourist information center, located near the fortress entrance. The walk is uphill and takes around 15-20 minutes.

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Discover more about Mezek fortress (Neoutzikon)

Mezek Fortress, also known as Neoutzikon in Byzantine chronicles, stands as a testament to the region's rich history. Constructed during the reign of Emperor Alexius I Comnenus, the fortress served as a crucial border defense, protecting the territories between the Maritsa and Arda rivers. Its strategic location atop Kaleto hill, near the modern village of Mezek, provided commanding views of the Thracian Valley and the Rhodope Mountains. The fortress is built in an irregular rectangular shape, enclosing an area of approximately 7 decares. The walls, constructed from stone and white mortar, are adorned with three brick bands on the exterior. Originally, the fortress boasted nine towers, some reaching over 10 meters in height, enhancing its defensive capabilities. Five of these towers were strategically positioned along the southern wall, the most vulnerable side, while the remaining towers guarded the western, northern, and eastern walls. Over the centuries, Mezek Fortress was controlled by both the Byzantine and Bulgarian Empires until the Ottoman conquest in the late 14th century. The fortress remained in operation until the area fell under Ottoman rule. Today, visitors can explore the ruins, imagine life within its walls, and enjoy the panoramic vistas. The fortress has been declared an architectural monument and is among the 100 Tourist Sites of Bulgaria. Nearby, you can also visit the Mezek Tomb, the largest Thracian beehive tomb in Bulgaria. While exploring the fortress, keep an eye out for remnants of its past, including the remains of a World War II-era bunker. Though one bunker is a decoy, a real, well-hidden bunker can be found near the fortress walls, showcasing the area's layered history.

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