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Bulgaria

Madara Rider

Early medieval rock relief of horseman

Time Periods

Paleolithic

Paleolithic

Mesolithic

Mesolithic

Neolithic

Neolithic

Chalcolithic

Chalcolithic

Bronze Age

Bronze Age

Iron Age

Iron Age

Classical Period

Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Early Modern Period

Early Modern Period

Industrial Period

Industrial Period

Contemporary Period

Contemporary Period

Location

About

The Madara Rider, a significant early medieval rock relief, is located on the Madara Plateau in northeastern Bulgaria. Carved into a nearly vertical cliff, this life-size depiction of a horseman dates back to the early 8th century CE, during the reign of Khan Tervel. The relief portrays a horseman spearing a lion, accompanied by a dog, reflecting a blend of Thracian and Bulgar iconography. Its creation is associated with the Bulgar's equestrian warrior culture and possibly connected to the deity Tangra. Additional inscriptions from Khans Krum and Omurtag further enrich the historical narrative of Bulgaria. The site, including remnants of a pagan shrine and early Christian structures, offers insights into the region's religious transformations during the 9th century CE.

Archaeological Features

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Religious and Ritual Structures

TemplesChurches

Artistic and Decorative Features

ReliefsInscriptions

Historical Timeline

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Plan Your Visit

Details

Country
Bulgaria
Source
Wikipedia