Belintash is an ancient Thracian religious sanctuary likely used as a solar observatory and for ritualistic purposes. It is the second largest such sanctuary in Bulgaria. The mountain rocks upon which it stands have been carved into shapes resembling the heads of gods and animals. The head of the god Sabazios faces east, towards the rising sun. The nature of this sanctuary is steeped in legend and mystery, and historians have theorized about its significance for centuries. The view from the top is breathtaking - forest-covered mountain slopes spreading as far as the eye can see, with a clear view of the other two attractions on this excursion, Karadzhov Rock and "Holy Trinity" Cross Forest.

Bachkovo Monastery

Bachkovo monastery “Assumption of Holy Virgin” is the second largest in Bulgaria and a national cultural landmark. The cobbled road leading up to the monastery is lined with market stalls selling trinkets, folk craft, homemade jam, honey and spices. Bachkovo Monastery was founded all the way back in the 11th century, while the area was still part of the Byzantine Empire. It has since been partially destroyed, rebuilt and restored numerous times. The monastery has its own museum showcasing crucifixes, ceremonial garbs, manuscripts, icons and donated jewelry. The cathedral in the larger courtyard is called “Assumption of the Holy Virgin”, with the smaller “St. Archangeli” church built into its side. The “St. Nicholas” church is the centerpiece of the southern courtyard. In the cathedral there is an icon from 1311 known as the Miracle Working Icon of the Holy Virgin, with a silver repousse cover. It is believed that the icon has miraculous powers.