Pliska
Country: Bulgaria
Region: Europe
Period: 681-893CE
Location: 43.387°N, 27.132°E
Description
Pliska was the first capital of the First Bulgarian Empire, established in the late 7th century by Khan Asparuh. Located in northeastern Bulgaria, near the Varbitsa Pass, it became the political and cultural heart of the empire. The city was well-fortified and strategically positioned to control key trade routes. Pliska's legacy includes significant architectural structures, such as its royal palace and the Great Basilica, highlighting its importance in early Bulgarian history.
Modern Remains
Today, Pliska is an archaeological site that reveals remnants of its former grandeur, including the royal palace complex, defensive walls, and the Great Basilica, one of the largest churches of its time in the Balkans. Excavations have uncovered inscriptions, coins, and ceramics that provide insights into the daily life and culture of the early Bulgarians. The site is an important historical landmark and is visited by those interested in the origins of the Bulgarian state and its medieval past.