Nebet Tepe
Plovdiv
Nebet Tepe is one of the six hills of Plovdiv where the ancient city was originally established. Archaeological evidence shows settlements dating back to 4000 BC, initially inhabited by Thracians and later expanded by Philip II of Macedon and the Romans. The hill served as the citadel of the acropolis with remains of fortification walls, towers, and a secret Roman postern tunnel from the 6th century AD. The site features impressive cyclopean masonry walls built without mortar, a large ancient water reservoir with hydrophobic coating, and fortifications from the Hellenistic and Roman periods. Nebet Tepe is a cultural monument of national importance and a popular tourist attraction offering panoramic views of Plovdiv. Managed by the Regional Archaeological Museum, it provides visitors with a unique insight into the city's multi-millennial history.
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Tip: Visitors should plan to visit Nebet Tepe during daylight hours to fully appreciate the panoramic views and explore the archaeological remains safely. Access is free, but guided tours can enrich the experience and are available by prior arrangement through the Regional Archaeological Museum. Early spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. No advance ticket purchase is necessary, and visitors are encouraged to wear comfortable footwear for walking on uneven terrain.
Interesting facts
- •The name 'Nebet Tepe' derives from Turkish words meaning 'hill of the guards,' reflecting its historical military role.
- •The hill features a unique Roman postern tunnel with stairs thought to have been used by Apostle Paul.
- •The ancient water reservoir on Nebet Tepe has a volume of approximately 350 cubic meters and was built with hydrophobic coating to retain water.
- •Cyclopean masonry walls on the hill date back to the 4th century BC and were constructed without mortar, using large syenite blocks.
- •Nebet Tepe is part of the 'Old Town' or 'Trichalmiye,' the historic three hills that formed ancient Plovdiv.
History
Nebet Tepe has been continuously inhabited since at least 4000 BC, beginning as a Thracian settlement.
In 342 BC, Philip II of Macedon conquered the site and renamed it Philippopolis, expanding the city and fortifying the hill as a citadel.
During the Roman period, additional fortifications and a secret postern tunnel were constructed under Emperor Justinian in the 6th century AD.
The hill remained a key defensive and urban site throughout antiquity and the Middle Ages, with several renovations and expansions reflecting the city's evolving strategic importance.
Place Guide
Cyclopean Walls and Quadrangular Tower4th century BC
These massive ancient walls, built without mortar using large syenite blocks, date from the 4th century BC and include a prominent quadrangular tower that served as part of the citadel's defense during the Hellenistic period.
Roman Postern Tunnel6th century AD
A secret staircase tunnel carved into the rock under the northern wall, constructed during Emperor Justinian's reign in the 6th century AD. It is believed that Apostle Paul may have used this passage, which led down to the Maritsa river.
Ancient Water Reservoir
A large rectangular water reservoir with a capacity of around 350 cubic meters, built from alternating layers of stone and brick. Its inner walls and floor were treated with a hydrophobic coating to prevent water loss, essential for the city's water supply during sieges.
Contact
Phone: 032 633 106
