Starosel – Thracian Temples and Wine

Starosel is known for its impressive Thracian archaeology, complemented by the Church of St. Nedelya, wine experiences and a cycling route that ends in the village. When planning your stay, you can decide which of these aspects of the destination you would like to explore more closely. The temple complexes combine historical significance with distinctive architectural features; dining and tastings offer a different focus.

Thracian Temples and Their Architecture

The Thracian cult temple on the Chetinyova Mound near Starosel dates from the late 5th to 4th century BC. It is considered the largest Thracian temple in the Balkans. The exposed archaeological site is open to visitors year-round and is also described as the largest Thracian royal complex with a mausoleum discovered to date. The Thracian cult complex in Starosel comprises six temples beneath mounds; four of them are considered unique.

The temple on the Horizon Mound has features that also make it architecturally interesting to visit: a rectangular chamber is surrounded by a U-shaped space adorned with ten columns in the early Doric style. The temple became the mausoleum of a deified Thracian ruler. The building’s spatial design and its later use are thus both notable, without reducing its significance to a single feature.

There is an information board on the Horizon Mound. Check the current status of this facility before your visit. The temple complex on the Chetinyova Mound is about four kilometres northwest of Starosel; the road from Starosel to the site is paved. The tomb temple above Starosel stands at the foot of the southern slopes of Sŭshtinska Sredna Gora.

Church of St. Nedelya

The Church of St. Nedelya adds another chapter to the local history alongside the Thracian sites. It was built in 1819 and rebuilt ten years after the fire of 1876. Its distinctive icons were painted by Nikola Danchov. Those interested in sacred art will find it a separate point of interest alongside the ancient temple architecture.

Wine, Tastings and Dining

The Starosel complex offers several different ways to explore wine and regional drinks. Starosel Winery offers tours and tastings for guests of the complex; check the specific arrangements before travelling. At the Temple of Wine, tastings of Starosel wine and rakia are served. The complex’s Enoteca also offers wine and rakia tastings and is designed to resemble a rotunda.

For meals, Teroar Restaurant serves Bulgarian and international gourmet cuisine. The kitchen features an open layout, a Big Green Egg BBQ, and an authentic bread and pizza oven. These offerings complement visits to the archaeological sites without conflating the historical and culinary themes. As visitor services can change, it is advisable to confirm tastings and arrangements in advance for your travel dates.

Spa Facilities and Accommodation

The complex has two spa centres with modern spa facilities and wine treatments. It is supplied with mineral water from a spring about seven kilometres from Starosel. Other listed facilities include a children’s centre, a modern playground and a zoo next to the playground. These specific offerings may factor into your plans; check the current services before travelling.

Cycling Route to Starosel

The 20-kilometre Hisarya–Matenitsa–Starosel cycling route is intended for more experienced cyclists. It passes through mixed forests, by reservoirs and through villa districts. Its destination is Starosel, where visitors can see the Thracian cult temple. The route thus combines exercise with a cultural destination, while its length and stated target group give a clear idea of what to expect.

If you plan to take this route, check local information before setting out. The combination of archaeological visits, the church, tastings and cycling offers a range of options for a stay in Starosel.

Discover more destinations: Belovitsa.

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