Peperikon is a particular archeological site often discussed by Bulgarian media nowadays. The ancient sanctuary became popular thanks to the excavations performed by the famous Bulgarian archeologist Nikolay Ovcharov. Yet, the knowledge of its real function, history, and significance is scarce. Perperikon is an enormous rock formation in East Rodopi Mountain, and scientists believe that a sanctuary of the same name emerged 8000 years ago. The rocky monument stands 15 kilometers away from the town of Kardjali near the Perpereshka river, which is said to have been a site of ancient gold prospectors. The first excavation of Perperikon’s archeological site took place in 1930, but it grew popular nowadays due to the research of Prof. Ovcharov. He is one of the scientists in charge of Perperikon’s popularization in the media generating the great interest of tourists to that cult complex. Note that large-scale excavations uncovered the Palace, the Acropolis and other exciting constructions not known to the community by that time. CNN was the media that covered the Perpericom event in its broadcasts. Ancient inhabitants of these lands believed in the Sun-God from time immemorial. Due to the bare old rocks and the convenient location, they settled down on the hill, from which they could watch the sunrise every morning. Stoneworking started with the significant development and improvement of tools during the Bronze Age, and ancient people began cutting various cult niches, sanctuaries, and tombs in the rocks. Thus, the change in the natural appearance of Perperkon initiated. Archeologists found many votive dishes, statuettes, and artifacts related to the cult to the Sun-God. Perperikon transformed into a grandiose sanctuary during the late Bronze Age. Many facts suggest the location of the famous Dionysus sanctuary was there. Legends say that two crucial prophesies were made at the Perperikon altar. The first one predicted the conquests and glory of Alexander the Great. Several centuries later, a second one predicted the reign of Gaius Julius Caesar Octavian Augustus, the first Roman emperor. An enormous but roofless hall was open in 2002 corresponding to all descriptions of the temple of Dionysus found in ancient texts. The impressive dimensions of the Perperikon temple and its specific architectural design prove its religious function and make researchers believe that this was the famous sanctuary of the ancient Greek god Dionysus, looked for at various Rhodopa sites for years. Perperikon is a unique complex dedicated to the cult of the Sun-God. It is a symbol of one of the earliest cultures in Bulgarian lands. The religion that was the fundament of culture, architecture, and knowledge throughout the entire Balkan Peninsula emerged there.
Peperikon
