Madara Rider
Shumen
The Madara Rider is a monumental early medieval rock relief carved into a nearly vertical cliff on the Madara Plateau near Shumen, Bulgaria. Dating from the late 7th or early 8th century during the reign of Khan Tervel, it depicts a life-size horseman thrusting a spear into a lion beneath his horse, accompanied by a running dog and an eagle above. The relief combines elements from Thracian and Bulgar traditions and is considered a symbol of the First Bulgarian Empire's power. Surrounding inscriptions in Medieval Greek provide historical context about Bulgarian-Byzantine relations and rulers such as Tervel, Krum, and Omurtag. The site includes archaeological remains of a pagan shrine and ruler's dwelling, linked to the deity Tangra, reflecting the cultural and religious significance of the monument. Its unique iconography and monumental scale make it an unparalleled early medieval European rock relief and a symbol of Bulgarian heritage.
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Tip: Visitors should plan to visit during daylight hours for optimal viewing, as the relief is high on a cliff face. Wear sturdy footwear for the steep steps leading to the plateau. It is advisable to check local opening times and consider purchasing tickets in advance if visiting the broader Madara National Historical and Archaeological Reserve. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. Guided tours can enrich the experience by providing historical context and explaining the inscriptions and archaeological findings.
Interesting facts
- •The Madara Rider is the only early medieval rock relief of its kind in Europe.
- •It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979.
- •The relief is carved approximately 23 meters above ground on a 100-meter-high cliff.
- •Surrounding inscriptions in Medieval Greek provide rare historical records of early Bulgarian rulers and their relations with Byzantium.
- •The horseman is thought to represent Khan Tervel or a Bulgar deity, possibly Tangra.
- •Nearby archaeological finds include a pagan shrine and a ruler's dwelling linked to sacral rituals.
History
The Madara Rider was carved in the late 7th or early 8th century, likely during Khan Tervel's reign, marking the Bulgar settlement in the region.
Inscriptions from the 8th and 9th centuries mention rulers Krum and Omurtag, linking the relief to important historical treaties and events with the Byzantine Empire.
Archaeological excavations uncovered a nearby pagan shrine and ruler's residence from the 9th century, indicating the site's religious and political importance.
Over centuries, the relief has suffered erosion but remains a vital symbol of Bulgaria's early medieval statehood and cultural identity.
Place Guide
The Madara Rider Relieflate 7th or early 8th century
This nearly life-size rock relief depicts a horseman spearing a lion, symbolizing victory and power. Key features include the horseman's garments, a bird in front of his face, a dog running behind, and an eagle above. The relief stands 23 meters above the ground on a vertical cliff, making it a striking visual landmark.
Medieval Greek Inscriptions8th–9th centuries
Three partially preserved inscriptions carved around the relief provide historical information about treaties and rulers such as Tervel, Krum, and Omurtag. These inscriptions are crucial for understanding early Bulgarian-Byzantine relations.
Archaeological Complex9th century
Located about 250 meters north of the relief, the complex includes remains of a pagan shrine, possibly a three-aisled church, and a rectangular building thought to be the ruler's private dwelling used for sacral rituals. Pottery finds date from the 8th to 10th centuries.
Contact
Phone: 053 132 095
