Perched on the southern slope of the Stara Planina at an altitude of 850 meters, the fortress boasts a strategic and picturesque location. Just a few kilometers south of the ridge, where this ancient stronghold stands, flows the Strjama River. A mere 2 kilometers away lies the village of Anevo, while the town of Sopot is about 4 kilometers distant, accessible by car or via an eco-trail leading to the summit.
A Testament to Medieval Strength
Among the country’s best-preserved fortresses, its towering walls reach heights of 12 to 14 meters. Historically, these walls encircled a courtyard spanning 5 decares, a testament to its grandeur during the Second Bulgarian Empire.
The Medieval City of Kopsis
The suburb and citadel of Anevo Fortress are integral parts of the medieval city of Kopsis, now known as Sopot. Some hypotheses suggest that Sopot is the medieval city of Potuka, known solely from the hagiography of one of Bulgaria’s earliest Christian saints, St. Michael the Warrior of Potuka. His life story, recorded in Old Bulgarian literature, is famously titled “The Miracle of St. George with the Bulgarian.”
A Neighbor to Spirituality
Close to the fortress ruins is the Sopot Monastery “Ascension of the Lord.” The fortress’s well-preserved state, with its high walls and towers, attracts numerous tourists. It was even mentioned in Ivan Vazov’s travelogue “A Corner of the Stara Planina.” Extensive archaeological research at Anevo Fortress began in 1983, revealing much about its layered history.
The Fortress Layout
The fortress was built on various levels, with the central citadel occupying the highest point, while other structures spread across the remaining area. The main entrance to the fortress is on its southern side, designed for standalone defense.
Uncovering Layers of History
Archaeological excavations have revealed that the fortress housed a monastic complex with a church (and two additional churches). Beneath the medieval church, traces of an earlier 5th-6th century church were found. The site shows signs of habitation and fortifications dating back to Antiquity (1st-5th centuries) and the Early Middle Ages (7th-10th centuries). Archaeologists believe the fortress, as seen today, began in the early 12th century and was abandoned by the late 14th century.
A Seat of Power
According to Byzantine chroniclers George Pachymeres and John Kantakouzenos, Anevo Fortress served as the capital of the dominions of brothers Smilets, Voisil, and Radoslav. Smilets even ascended to the Bulgarian throne, reigning from 1292 to 1298.
Artillery Echoes of the Past
Surrounding the fortress and its approaches are numerous fragments of 19th-century artillery shells. Coupled with relatively fresh fire traces, it is highly probable that the fortress was bombarded by Russian artillery during the Liberation War of 1877-1878. The height on which the fortress stands might have been used as a strategic position by Ottoman troops or simply as a target for artillery training exercises.
