Valley of the Thracian Kings

Around Kazanlak and Shipka lies the Valley of the Thracian Kings—an archaeological treasure trove often compared to the Valley of the Kings in Egypt. In this relatively small area, over 1,500 Thracian burial mounds (tumuli) have been identified, of which only a fraction has been excavated. The Thracians—a warlike, artful people who inhabited present-day Bulgaria from the 2nd millennium BC until the Roman conquest—left their most impressive legacies here.

Important Tombs

• Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak (UNESCO): The most famous tomb with its polychrome frescoes from the 4th century BC—banquet scenes, chariot races, and the portrait of a Thracian royal couple. The artistic quality is breathtaking and shows the cultural exchange with the Greek world.
• Tomb of Golyama Kosmatka: In 2004, the tomb of Thracian King Seuthes III was discovered here—with a golden crown, bronze head, and valuable grave goods. The bronze head (lifelike, with glass eyes) is one of the most fascinating artworks of antiquity and can be seen in the museum of Kazanlak.
• Tomb of Alexandrovo: Another painted tomb with hunting scenes and animal figures—less known than Kazanlak but equally impressive.

Shipka Pass & Monument

The Shipka Pass (1,185 m) is one of Bulgaria's most historic sites: Here, in 1877, the Battle of Shipka Pass took place, where Russian and Bulgarian troops held off the Ottoman army—a turning point in the War of Liberation. The monumental Freedom Monument on the summit (1,326 m) is accessible via 890 steps and offers a panorama over the entire Rose Valley. At the foot of the pass stands the magnificent Shipka Memorial Church in Russian-Byzantine style with golden domes.

The Valley of the Thracian Kings is a place where history becomes tangible. The combination of ancient tombs, the Rose Valley, and the Shipka Pass makes this region one of Bulgaria's most culturally rich areas—and a must-visit for anyone who wants to understand Bulgaria.