Eastern European Research Trip – Bulgaria
Our port city in Bulgaria is Vidin, and our tour today includes a visit to the Belogradchik Rocks and Fortress.
On our way! (Photo from the bus window.)
The red Rocks of Belogradshick were formed by weathering and erosion. They extend for more than 18 miles, are 650 feet high and about 1 mile wide.
The Belogradshick Fortress was built within the rock formations by the Ottoman Turks, who conquered this area in the late 1300s. The last time the Fortress was used for defense was during the Serbian-Bulgarian War of 1885.
This is the gateway into the Fortress.
I’m guessing this iron door would be very difficult to break down!
In these photos you can see some of the fantastic shapes of the rocks. Over the years people have named them for their silhouettes: “The Schoolgirl,” “The Bear,” “The Madonna,” “The Horseman.” It’s fun to imagine what names I would give them.
A great opportunity for taking photos!
Our bus takes us back to the ship for the afternoon, and we are entertained by a group of young people doing traditional Bulgarian dances!
This trip has been a treasure trove when it comes to research for BONE FIRE. Can’t wait to share it with you! Tomorrow a few photos of what we’ve found.
Happy Traveling!
Sue
