Yaylata Archaeological Reserve
Dobrich
Yaylata Archaeological Reserve, located near Kamen Bryag and northeast of Kavarna in Bulgaria, is a protected coastal area of approximately 45 hectares separated from the sea by 50-60 meter high cliffs. It features a remarkable cave settlement consisting of 101 rock-cut dwellings inhabited since the 5th millennium BC. The site also hosts three necropolises from the 3rd to 5th centuries AD, including a necropolis centered around a carved sanctuary oriented towards the rising sun. In the northern part of the 'Great Yayla,' there is a small early Byzantine fortress dating to the late 5th century, with partially preserved walls and towers. Additional archaeological remains include sanctuaries, sacrificial stones, wine cellars, and rock-cut tombs. During the Middle Ages, the caves served as a monastic complex, with some walls bearing ancient Bulgarian runes, crosses, and stone icons. The reserve was officially declared an archaeological reserve in 1989 and encompasses a large coastal stretch including the sea area extending 500 meters offshore. Underwater archaeological finds near the site include stone, lead, and iron anchors, as well as remains of ancient and medieval ships, highlighting the area's long-standing maritime significance. The name 'Yayla' is of Turkic origin meaning 'high pasture.' The reserve offers a unique glimpse into continuous human habitation and cultural layers from the 6th millennium BC through the Middle Ages, making it a significant cultural and natural heritage site along the Bulgarian Black Sea coast.
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Astuce: The best time to visit Yaylata Archaeological Reserve is during the late spring to early autumn months when the weather is mild and suitable for outdoor exploration. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable footwear for walking on rocky terrain and to bring water and sun protection. It is recommended to check opening hours and consider guided tours to fully appreciate the historical significance. Tickets may be available at the site or through official channels, with possible discounts for students and seniors. Early arrival can help avoid crowds, especially during peak tourist season.
Faits intéressants
- •Yaylata hosts a cave 'city' with 101 dwellings dating back to the 5th millennium BC.
- •The site includes three rock-cut necropolises from the 3rd to 5th centuries AD, one centered around a sanctuary facing the rising sun.
- •An early Byzantine fortress from the late 5th century with partially preserved towers stands on the site.
- •In medieval times, the caves were used as a monastic complex, with ancient Bulgarian runes and stone icons found on the walls.
- •Underwater archaeological finds near Yaylata include stone, lead, and iron anchors and remains of ancient and medieval ships.
- •The name 'Yayla' means 'high pasture' in Turkic languages.
- •Legend says the Roman poet Ovid spent his last days hidden by locals in the Yaylata bay after exile from Tomis.
Histoire
Yaylata has been inhabited since the 5th millennium BC, initially as a cave settlement.
Over the centuries, it developed into a complex site with necropolises from the 3rd to 5th centuries AD and an early Byzantine fortress built in the late 5th century.
During the Middle Ages, the caves were repurposed as a monastic complex, with inscriptions and symbols reflecting the cultural transitions of the region.
The site was officially declared an archaeological reserve in 1989, following decades of archaeological excavations that began in 1980, focusing on the fortress, necropolises, and cave complexes.
Underwater archaeological discoveries in the adjacent sea area attest to the site's long-standing maritime importance, including shipwrecks from various historical periods.
Guide du lieu
Cave Settlement5th millennium BC
A vast complex of 101 rock-cut dwellings inhabited since the 5th millennium BC, representing one of the oldest known cave settlements in the region.
Necropolises3rd–5th century AD
Three rock-cut family necropolises dating from the 3rd to 5th centuries AD, including a sanctuary oriented towards the sunrise.
Early Byzantine FortressLate 5th century
A small fortress built in the late 5th century located in the northern part of the Great Yayla, with partially preserved walls and four towers including a gate tower.
Medieval Monastic CavesMiddle Ages
Caves used as a monastic complex during the Middle Ages, featuring ancient Bulgarian runes, crosses, and stone icons on the walls.
Contact
Téléphone: 057 082 150