Bulgaria Inside

The town of Pliska was the first Bulgarian capital, established right after the country’s foundation in 681. It acted as a political center and functioned as a cultural and economic capital. Pliska maintained its function until the capital was moved to Veliki Preslav in 893.

Archaeologists and historians believe that the town was constructed over an old Slavic settlement. The remains of the ancient Pliska tell a lot about Bulgaria and its past developments. Ruins show that the capital covered an area of 23 sq km.

Since it was constructed in a valley and lacked natural defense, Pliska had three fortification systems. A big ditch surrounded the city. The second defense line represented a thick wall. Another wall protected the city from inside.

The big basilica, situated in the outer city, is the biggest on the Balkans. The dimensions of 100 by 30 m make it one of the biggest constructions from this period in Bulgaria.

During the summer, old Pliska welcomes visitors from 8 am to 6 pm and in the winter, it works from 8 am to 5 pm.

To learn more about Pliska, click here.