Belogradchik Fortress

About

During the 1st through 3rd century AD, as the Roman empire expanded their network of roads through the Balkan Peninsula, they also erected fortresses to watch over them. Taking advantage of the natural landscape, the Romans utilized the highest point of this hilltop, which only required them to build two walls. During the 14th century, the fortress was expanded and refortified. In 1396, the Ottomans conquered the freshly renovated fortress and reconstructed it to house a garrison to oppress any Bulgarian revolts. Today, visitors can enjoy this picturesque combination of natural beauty and historic architecture as they make their way through three separate courtyards on their way up to the highest point, known as the First Slab, for beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.