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Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak: A Glimpse into Ancient Rituals

Explore a UNESCO World Heritage Site: Discover vibrant frescoes in a remarkably preserved Thracian tomb dating back to the 4th century BC.

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The Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a remarkably preserved burial site dating back to the 4th century BC. It's famed for its stunning frescoes depicting Thracian life and burial rituals, offering a unique window into this ancient culture. While the original tomb is protected, visitors can explore an exact replica nearby.

A brief summary to Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak

  • Monday 9 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit the replica tomb to protect the original frescoes while still experiencing the beauty and history.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the Kazanlak Historical Museum and the Rose Museum to learn more about the region's history and culture.
  • Explore other tombs in the Valley of the Thracian Kings, such as the Ostrusha Tomb and the Golyama Kosmatka Tomb.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak is located on the outskirts of Kazanlak, approximately a 15-minute walk from the city center. From the central square, head north on ul. General Radetski. The tomb and its replica are situated in Tyulbeto Park.

  • Public Transport

    Kazanlak is accessible by bus and train from major cities like Sofia, Plovdiv and Burgas. From the Kazanlak bus or train station, you can take a local bus or taxi to the city center and then walk to the tomb. A one-way local transport ticket costs approximately 1.50 BGN.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Kazanlak. A taxi ride from the city center to the Thracian Tomb costs approximately 5 BGN, depending on the distance and traffic.

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Discover more about Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak

Discovered in 1944, the Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak is part of a larger necropolis near Seuthopolis, the capital of the Thracian king Seutes III. Dating back to the late 4th century BC, this vaulted-brickwork "beehive" (tholos) tomb provides invaluable insights into Thracian culture. The tomb consists of a narrow corridor and a round burial chamber, both adorned with well-preserved frescoes. These murals showcase scenes of Thracian burial rituals, including a funeral feast with a couple and processions. The paintings, executed in fresco, utilize a limited palette of white, black, red, and yellow, all derived from mineral pigments. The scenes depict a Thracian couple at a ritual funeral feast, showcasing tenderness and equality. The dome mural features musicians, horses, and even a chariot race, offering a glimpse into the life and beliefs of the Thracian elite. The tomb is believed to have belonged to the Thracian ruler Roigos and his wife, with archaeologists suggesting that two corpses were laid in the tomb. To preserve the delicate frescoes, the original tomb is not open to the public. However, a full-size, exact replica was constructed nearby in 1984, allowing visitors to experience the artistry and architecture of the tomb. The replica provides information in both English and Bulgarian, enhancing the visitor experience. The Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak is part of the Valley of the Thracian Kings, a region with a high concentration of Thracian tombs and temples.

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