Journey to Perperikon, the Machu Picchu of Europe

Among the quietest folds of the Rhodope Mountains , where time has never really had the courage to pass, a hill stands out that vibrates with mystery and ancient tales, where the stone holds secrets that humanity has almost forgotten. You don't need magic portals to get there, just the desire to touch with your hand what legends have been whispering for millennia: Perperikon , known as the Machu Picchu of Europe is ready to enchant. The archaeological site , considered a gateway to civilizations that have left their mark on the past, is a real city carved into the rock even older than the famous Machu Picchu and even more shrouded in mystery.

Perperikon, the archaeological site nicknamed the Machu Picchu of Europe

Among the thick foliage and suspended silence of southern Bulgaria, Perperikon slept for centuries, hidden from the eyes of the world. No one knew what lay beneath that cloak of woods and rocks, until, less than a century ago, archaeologists began to dig. They thought they would find a medieval fortress, but they discovered something immensely older and more powerful: the ruins of a Thracian city.

The Thracians , a fascinating but little-known people, considered Perperikon the center of their spiritual universe. But they were not alone: ​​over the millennia , the Romans, Byzantines and Ottomans also left their mark on this “holy city”. Every stone, every stairway carved into the rock seems to tell a different story.

And then there is the energy . Everyone who has been there speaks of it: Perperikon exudes an inexplicable force. The ancients celebrated fire rituals here, animal sacrifices and, in some cases, human sacrifices. But for the Thracians, death was a gift, a joyful passage.

A curiosity? The incredible archaeological site has only been excavated in a small part; it is estimated to be only around 10%. According to experts, by continuing its study, it will be able to reveal authentic treasures that we cannot even imagine yet. Did you know that the name “Perperikon” probably derives from the Byzantine word perpera , a gold coin? This is because the area was famous for its mines of precious metals, such as gold and silver, exploited since ancient times. Thanks to its wealth, it has attracted various conquerors over time, among the most prestigious being Tsar Ivan Alexander who in the 14th century made it a strategic center.

You should know that its extension is very vast and takes advantage of verticality: the paved path between ruins is impervious, you have to be careful because the path can lead to slipping. There is an easier and quieter route in the forest but less scenic.

Where is Perperikon and how to get there

Perperikon is located in the Eastern Rhodope region of southern Bulgaria . It can be reached in about three hours by car from Sofia or less than two from Plovdiv . The nearest town is Kardzhali , about half an hour away. The roads are in good condition and the area offers hotels, restaurants and picturesque lakes for those who want to explore further. The site is open from May to October (7:30–20:00), with an entrance fee and guided tours provided by the Kardzhali History Museum. It is highly recommended to book a language guide in advance.