Toplitsa Fortress, Mineralni Bani

from Katerina in Get to know Bulgaria! Visits 990 5 April, 2022

Toplitsa Fortress is located on the Sveti Duh hill in the city of Mineralni Bani, Haskovo region. It has gone through 4 periods of construction (roman, late Roman, early Byzantine and medieval). It dates back to the 2nd-century and was built by the Romans, and is believed to have existed until the 14th century.

According to historical records, the former town of Toplicos (Toplitsa) was located in this area. From the discoveries made in the area, it is assumed that there was an intense way of life during the various periods in which the city existed. The fortress served as a defence of the settlement, was built of large stone blocks and is an irregular polygon with two entrances and two smaller doors.

During the archaeological excavations in the fortress were discovered a lot of pottery - large granaries, ordinary kitchen pottery, ornate pots and bowls, as well as copper, silver and gold coins.

The fortress is located in the town of Mineralni Bani, so if you are there, you must visit it. The view from the top is very beautiful, and the place around it has recently been renovated and there are many places for rest - benches and gazebos. Every Saturday a multimedia light show is organized on the eastern fortress wall, which presents its history. According to the information board, in wintertime, it takes place every Saturday from 19:00, and in the summertime - every Saturday from 21:00.