🏛️ What is the “Nameless City”?
Excavations, which began in earnest in 2003, have revealed an impressive fortress city covering an area of over 25-30 acres. Here is what archaeologists have discovered so far:
- Fortress walls: Up to 1.20 meters thick, they protected the former population.
- Early Christian basilica: Foundations of a church from the 4th-5th century, on which the chapel of St. Nicholas has been restored today.
- Necropolis: Graves of people with impressive height for the era (over 1.80 – 2.00 m) have been discovered, which fuels the legends about the "giants" who guarded the passage.
History carved in the rocks
The location was not chosen by chance. The hill is naturally fortified by steep cliffs, and the view from it allows control over the entire Razlog Valley. Artifacts show that life was thriving here as early as 2000 BC.
Today, visitors to Archaeological Complex "St. Nicholas"“ can see the preserved foundations of buildings, grain stores (pithos) and a complex system of stairs. But the most impressive thing is the sense of continuity - on the ruins of the ancient sanctuary today a functioning chapel has once again been erected, where people light a candle for health.
The route: How to get to the complex?
Access to the site is relatively easy and is a great idea for a half-day excursion. There are two main approaches:
| Variant | Road description |
|---|---|
| From Dobrinishte (Most Popular) | Start from the edge of the town of Dobrinishte (direction Gotse Delchev hut). There is a marked trail with signs. The road is dirt, but passable for off-road vehicles to the foothills. It is about a 40-50 min pleasant walk through the forest. |
| From Bansko | It can also be approached from the area of the St. Georgi Ski & Holiday Hotel, but the route is longer and requires a guide or GPS, as the markings are lost in places. |
Nature and Views: The Reward for Effort
Apart from its historical value, the hill offers one of the most beautiful panoramas in the area. When you climb to the highest point of the fortress, you will see:
- To the south: The majestic wall of Pirin Mountain, which seems so close that you can almost touch it.
- To the north: The rounded mountains of Rila and the entire valley fit like a palm.
⚠️ Tips for visitors
The terrain of the archaeological site itself is steep and in places precipices. Be especially careful if you are with small children – hold their hands, especially at the edges of the fortress walls. Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be walking on rocks and dirt.
Conclusion
Archaeological Complex "St. Nicholas"“ is proof that Bansko is not just a tourist resort of recent times, but a place with deep roots. Here, among the silence of the pines and the whisper of ancient stones, you can find peace and feel part of the eternal history of this mountain.
English (UK)