Southern Fortress Wall and Tower: A Glimpse into Sozopol's Past

The Southern Fortress Wall and Tower is located in the southeastern part of the Skamniy Peninsula, within the Architectural-Historical Reserve “Ancient Sozopol”. The museum complex was established following archaeological discoveries made during the demolition of an old house, revealing sections of the southern fortress wall, a watchtower, a granary, and an ancient well dating back to the 4th-3rd century BCE. The fortress wall, as it stands today, was built and reconstructed between the 4th and 14th centuries, remaining in use until the mid-17th century. Its construction features a double-sided masonry of rubble stone bonded with mortar. The height of the wall varies from 8 to 11 meters, and its width is approximately 1.70 meters. The watchtower, a key feature of the complex, stands at a height of 14 meters. It is rectangular with solid masonry, battlements, and a wooden superstructure that once served as a roof. The granary, dating back to the 5th-6th century, highlights Sozopol's role as a major grain export port on the Black Sea. It measures 22 meters in length and 14 meters in width, making it the largest building discovered during archaeological excavations in Sozopol. Visitors can also explore an ancient well, built in the 4th-3rd century BCE as part of a cult complex dedicated to the “Three Nymphs”. The well is constructed with stone blocks fitted together without mortar, showcasing ancient Greek building practices. The museum also displays original parts of Apollonia Pontica's ancient water supply system. The Southern Fortress Wall and Tower offers panoramic views of the Black Sea and the surrounding area. The site provides a tangible connection to Sozopol's history, allowing visitors to imagine life in this ancient settlement.