Thracian Sanctuary of the Nymphs and Aphrodite
The Thracian sanctuary of the nymphs and Aphrodite is located near the village of Kasnakovo, Haskovo district. The sanctuary was discovered in 1898 and is one of the best preserved and impressive ancient temples in Bulgaria.
The sanctuary was established in the 2nd century AD. It is dedicated to the nymphs, mythical creatures associated with water, nature and fertility in Greek mythology. Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty, is also believed to be worshipped here.
The complex includes a central temple with three rooms, a small temple dedicated to Asclepius and two pools believed to have been used for ritual bathing. The central temple is surrounded by a colonnade and is decorated with intricate carvings depicting scenes from Greek mythology, including stories of Aphrodite and the nymphs.
The sanctuary was a place of worship and religious rituals, especially during the vernal equinox. Visitors left offerings, such as pottery, jewellery and coins, as a tribute to the gods. The sanctuary was active until the 4th century AD. It was abandoned due to the conversion to Christianity.
Today, the Thracian Sanctuary of the Nymphs and Aphrodite has been declared a national monument and is open to the public. The area around the sanctuary has been converted into a park where visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery and learn more about the history and culture of the site through information boards and exhibits.
The sanctuary was established in the 2nd century AD. It is dedicated to the nymphs, mythical creatures associated with water, nature and fertility in Greek mythology. Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty, is also believed to be worshipped here.
The complex includes a central temple with three rooms, a small temple dedicated to Asclepius and two pools believed to have been used for ritual bathing. The central temple is surrounded by a colonnade and is decorated with intricate carvings depicting scenes from Greek mythology, including stories of Aphrodite and the nymphs.
The sanctuary was a place of worship and religious rituals, especially during the vernal equinox. Visitors left offerings, such as pottery, jewellery and coins, as a tribute to the gods. The sanctuary was active until the 4th century AD. It was abandoned due to the conversion to Christianity.
Today, the Thracian Sanctuary of the Nymphs and Aphrodite has been declared a national monument and is open to the public. The area around the sanctuary has been converted into a park where visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery and learn more about the history and culture of the site through information boards and exhibits.
