Dolmen at Hlyabovo
Haskovo
The Dolmen at Hlyabovo is a remarkable prehistoric megalithic site located near the village of Hlyabovo in southern Bulgaria's Haskovo Province. This area is notable for its concentration of well-preserved dolmens, ancient stone chamber tombs dating back to the Thracian era. Among these, the royal dolmen at "Byalata treva" stands out as the best preserved in Southeastern Europe, highlighting the region's rich archaeological heritage. The dolmens are situated approximately 4 kilometers west of Hlyabovo, in an area called "Nachevi cheiri," accessible by a marked path. These structures reflect the ancient Thracian civilization that inhabited the Sakar Mountain region, evidenced also by nearby Roman and Byzantine remains. The site offers a unique glimpse into prehistoric burial practices and architectural skills, making it a significant cultural and historical landmark in Bulgaria. Visitors can explore several dolmens scattered around the village, including those in "Gaidarov dulap," "Slavova grove," "Evdzhika," and "Byalata treva." The surrounding landscape of rocky, forested hills adds to the site's mystique and natural beauty.
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Tip: The best time to visit the Dolmen at Hlyabovo is during spring and early autumn when the weather is mild and the surrounding nature is vibrant. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable walking shoes due to the uneven terrain and to bring water. Since the site is outdoors and somewhat remote, purchasing tickets or arranging guided tours in advance is recommended if available. There may be discounts for groups or educational visits. Checking local visitor information centers in Hlyabovo or Topolovgrad can provide updated access details and any seasonal events related to the dolmens.
Interesting facts
- •The royal dolmen at Byalata treva is considered the best preserved dolmen in Southeastern Europe.
- •The dolmens near Hlyabovo are peers to the famous Stonehenge in terms of their megalithic significance.
- •The region around Hlyabovo contains six well-preserved dolmens scattered in various localities.
- •The Sakar Mountain area, where Hlyabovo is located, was first incorporated into Bulgarian territory in 705 AD under Khan Tervel.
History
The area around Hlyabovo has been inhabited since ancient times, initially by the Thracians, as evidenced by the megalithic dolmens and menhirs found there.
The dolmens date back to prehistoric times and represent burial sites of significant cultural importance.
Over centuries, the region saw Roman and Byzantine presence, with fortresses and roads nearby.
The village of Hlyabovo itself was first documented in Ottoman tax records in the early 17th century under the name Gerdeme.
In 1906, it was renamed to Hlyabovo.
The dolmens have survived through these historical transitions, preserving a tangible link to the area's ancient past.
Place Guide
Royal Dolmen at Byalata trevaPrehistoric
The most well-preserved dolmen in Southeastern Europe, this royal dolmen features a three-chambered stone structure believed to be a Thracian burial site. It exemplifies ancient megalithic architecture and offers insight into prehistoric funerary customs.
Dolmens in Nachevi cheiriPrehistoric
A group of three chamber dolmens located about 4 km west of Hlyabovo, near the road to Balgarska polyana. The site is marked and accessible via a built path, allowing visitors to explore multiple megalithic tombs in one area.
