Perperikon is undoubtedly one of the most significant archeological discoveries in the last decades not only for Bulgaria but for the European ancient history as well. Perperikon used to be a Thracian city and temple. It could be recognized also with the names Hiperperakion and Perperakion. The settlement is located in the Eastern Rhodopes, 15 km northeastern from Kardzhali City. The rocky complex ascends to 470 meters above the valley of Perpereshka River. The closest village is Gorna Krepost. Due to the very good weather conditions, the area used to be inhabited for centuries. The latest excavations show that the first inhabitants date back in the Stone Age 8000 years ago. In the course of time, Perperikon played an important role as a sanctuary, sacred city, fortress with a palace. Various tribes used to live in the area until the Turkish destroyed the settlement in 14th century. One of the most popular theories states that Perperikon used to be the famous Temple of Dionysius which is compared by importance with the temple of Apollo in Delphi. Perperikon consists of 4 parts – a strong fortress, an acropolis on the highest spot of the hill, a sacred palace and residential areas. The last are still not excavated and examined but the observations prove the existence of streets, houses and smaller temples. During the last years, the area has been developed in terms of infrastructure and the sanctuary is easily accessible. There is a big parking lot under the settlement, as well as several souvenir shops. The nearest accommodations are in Kardzhali which is surrounded by two of the biggest dams in Bulgaria – Karzdhali Dam and Studen Kladenets Dam. There are 3-star hotels spread all over the city. Several guest houses also offer accommodation in self-contained rooms or apartments.
| List of hotels and accommodations close to Perperikon, Bulgaria. Distances are approximate and “as the crow flies”.List of hotels and accommodations | |
