Intensive excavations are being carried out at the site of the ancient Thracian city of Perperikon in the Eastern Rhodopes during the summer months again this year, reports BNR correspondent in Kardzhali Valya Apostolova. Because of the discoveries made by the archaeologists, it has been one of the leading cultural and historical sites in Bulgaria for more than 20 years.

• Prof. Nikolay Ovcharov: Perperikon will only be revealed in its entirety over the next generations

A medieval fortress dating from the 6th-14th centuries, Perperikon is located 15 km northeast of the town of Kardzhali, rising on a rocky peak 470 m above sea level. It is one of the largest Rhodope fortresses (12 000 sq.m). The complex includes a palace, a 6-5 cenury BC sanctuary, a fortified Thracian fortress, a settlement and a round temple - an oracle. It is believed that here was one of the capitals of the Thracian kings. The palace was L-shaped, had 3-4 floors and 40 rooms, according to the Tourist Information Centre in Kardzhali.