A share of 3,5 million Leva (approx. 1,75
million Euros) is allotted to boost tourism in the Valley of the Thracian Kings in the Kazanlak area and study
a Thracian tomb near the
These Thracian tombs deserve much more attention than they are getting presently, for they are so unique! Several years ago, I had the opportunity to visit the Kazanlak Tomb, and I was very disappointed to learn on the spot that I only would see a replica. The original tomb was sealed off to protect it from outside influences; the inside air was kept at a steady temperature to guarantee the highest possible conservation level. A very understandable measure, of course, but utterly disappointing when you come all the way to see a mere copy. I hope this new project will enable the curious visitor to see part of the magnificent original wall paintings.
This led me to visit
The Kazanlak Tomb, built during the 4th/3rd century BC, was smaller than I expected and counted three separate rooms: the entrance where the guests gathered for the funeral; a corridor with a pointed arched ceiling that reminded me of Agamemnon’s tomb although this one was painted; and finally the inner chamber where the walls and the circular ceiling were covered with frescos as well. The quality of these paintings clearly showed Greek influence yet executed conforming to Thracian traditions, how amazing! A novelty in those days was the perspective achieved by creating the light and shade effect.
The Thracians could take up to six wives, and their favorite, generally the youngest one, was “allowed” to accompany her husband to the hereafter – a definite honor. Depends upon your opinion, of course. They considered that dying was a happy event because babies cried when they came into this world, meaning that the place they just left must simply be a better one. This is why the deceased is represented accompanied by his favorite wife and several highly prized horses.
Evidently, there are many more tombs to visit,
like the one of Buzovgrad
mentioned above but also, I suppose, many others. The ones coming to my mind are
the Ostrusha Tumulus
near Shipka
that counted six rooms. Also, the still sealed As mentioned before, a few
remarkable tombs definitely deserve close attention. However, the Kazanlak
Tomb is understandably closed to the public, who can visit
a substitute replica next door. from the 5th century BC. It
contained a stunning massive gold vial in the shape of a gold mask like those
discovered in
In fact, I can’t wait till these unique tombs
and tumuli are entirely made accessible to the public, another priority to put
on my list!
Love it!!! Love the tile designs (wish I could be that creative with tile!) Can't wait to see it in person!
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