Stop 2: Perperikon – The Sacred Rock City Located high in the mountains, Perperikon is one of the most significant archaeological sites in the Balkans. Dating back to the 2nd millennium BC, Perperikon is believed to have been a major Thracian religious centre. The complex includes a rock-hewn sanctuary, a royal palace, and fortified walls and towers. It is often associated with the legendary Oracle of Dionysus, which ancient sources compare to the oracle at Delphi. Perperikon has seen continuous use across civilisations. Thracians used it as a sacred site, Romans expanded and fortified it, and Byzantines and medieval Bulgarians turned it into a stronghold. Walking through the ruins, you’ll feel the mystical atmosphere of a place where rituals, prophecy, and power once intersected.

Stop 3: Villa Armira – Roman Elegance in the Provinces After exploring the rugged heights of Perperikon, continue to Villa Armira—a striking contrast in both setting and lifestyle. Built in the 1st century AD, Villa Armira is the largest private Roman villa discovered in Bulgaria. It likely belonged to a wealthy local aristocrat or retired Roman official. The villa is known for its exceptionally preserved marble decoration, intricate mosaics and floor designs, and advanced water and heating systems. It reflects the spread of Roman culture deep into the provinces, blending local traditions with imperial sophistication. Unlike monumental ruins, Villa Armira offers insight into how the elite lived, with private courtyards and gardens, reception halls for guests, and living quarters with refined decoration. In this area will be also made a lunch break. After a delightful day of exploration, you will back in Plovdiv between 19:00 and 20:00.