Pliska | Shumen

Pliska is one of the most significant historical sites in Bulgaria, serving as the first capital of the First Bulgarian Empire from 681 to 893 AD. Situated in northeastern Bulgaria, near the modern town of Pliska, this archaeological site offers invaluable insights into early Bulgarian statehood and medieval culture.

Historical Significance:

Founding of Pliska:

• Established by the Bulgar Khan Asparuh, Pliska became the political, cultural, and military center of the newly formed Bulgarian state after its establishment in 681 AD.

Capital of the First Bulgarian Empire:

• For over two centuries, Pliska was the hub of administration, religion, and trade in the empire, showcasing a blend of Slavic, Bulgar, and Byzantine influences.
• It played a key role in the Christianization of Bulgaria in 864 AD during the reign of Khan Boris I.

Decline:

• In 893 AD, the capital was moved to Preslav, leading to Pliska’s gradual decline. However, it remained an important settlement for years thereafter.

Architectural and Archaeological Highlights:

The Outer City:

• The site was surrounded by massive stone walls forming an oval fortress that encompassed an area of about 23 square kilometers, making it one of the largest medieval fortified cities in Europe.
• Within the outer city, traces of homes, workshops, and fortifications have been uncovered.

The Inner City:

• Enclosed by a second, smaller stone wall, the inner city housed key administrative and ceremonial buildings, including the Khan’s Palace and other government structures.

The Great Basilica:

• One of Pliska’s most remarkable features is the Great Basilica, believed to be among the largest churches in medieval Europe.
• Built during the reign of Boris I after the Christianization of Bulgaria, the basilica is a testament to the empire’s embrace of Christianity.

Water Supply and Bathhouses:

• Advanced water systems, including aqueducts and bathhouses, reveal the city’s sophistication and the influence of Byzantine engineering.

Cultural Legacy:

• Pliska symbolizes the foundation of Bulgarian statehood, serving as a link between ancient pagan traditions and the advent of Christianity.
• The city’s unique layout, combining monumental stone architecture with wooden structures, reflects the transitional period in early Bulgarian history.

Visiting Pliska:

Location:

• Pliska is located approximately 20 kilometers northeast of Shumen and is accessible by road.

Museum and Site Tours:

• The archaeological reserve includes a museum displaying artifacts, reconstructions, and detailed explanations of the site’s significance.

Nearby Attractions:

• Visitors often pair a trip to Pliska with visits to Veliki Preslav, the second capital of the First Bulgarian Empire, and the Madara Rider, another UNESCO World Heritage Site nearby.

Preservation and Research:

Ongoing archaeological excavations continue to reveal more about Pliska’s role in shaping medieval Bulgaria. Restoration projects aim to protect its heritage and make it accessible for future generations, making it a must-see destination for history enthusiasts.