Thracian Tombing: Exploring the Graves of Europe's First Civilization
The area around the otherwise sleepy town of Kazanluk is dotted with an estimated 1,500 burial mounds, or mogili. With each excavation, more is revealed about the advanced craftsmanship of the Thracians -- one of the most recent, in August 2006, was a 5,000-year-old dagger made from a superior alloy of gold and platinum.
You can arrange a private tour of some of these tombs through Kazanluk-based Iskra Historical Museum (tel. 0431/63762; Mon-Fri 9am-5:30pm; 15lev/$12/£7.45 per tomb includes an English-speaking guide; if you have problems, ask to speak to Dr. Kosyo Zarev, director of the museum).
Accommodations & Dining
If all this ancient history has built up an appetite, or if you decide to hang around Kazanluk for more than 1 day (and you will if you are visiting more than one tomb), try the reviewed establishments.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
