The Asenova fortress (Asenova Krepost), located in the Chernatitsa region of the Rhodopes, symbolizes Asenovgrad. The fortress is on a rock on the Mogilata ridge and overlooks the Asenovgrad-Smolyan highway and the Asenitsa River. It is made up of an outer fortification and an inner citadel. The outer fortress wall is 2.9 meters thick, and the fortress itself is built on a 130-meter tall hill 100 meters above the river and 30 meters above the road. The defense is only accessible from the southwestern end, where a path for riders and pedestrians has been carved into the rock.
The earliest known inhabitants of the fortress were the Thracians in the 5th and 4th centuries BC, who built a fortification on the site because of its inaccessibility. The Romans and early Byzantines also inhabited the fortress. The current fortress dated back to the 9th century and was captured by the Crusaders during the Third Crusade. The fortress underwent several construction periods during the Middle Ages, the most powerful being in 1230 – 1231 under Tsar Ivan Assen II, when it was strengthened and expanded.
Archaeological studies have been conducted since 1970, uncovering walls, towers, water reservoirs, small churches, and living quarters. The inner fortress tower, located in the westernmost part of the fortress and served for observation and protection, was rebuilt three times. The excavations also uncovered household ceramics, animal bones, and other objects that indicate it also served as a residence for the fortress’ defenders.
More information about the Asenova Fortress can be found on this website.
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