Madara Horseman
About This Museum
High on a sheer, hundred-meter cliff in the quiet Bulgarian countryside, the Madara Horseman stands as a silent sentinel to history. This isn't a statue you can walk around, but a magnificent relief carved directly into the living rock, depicting a triumphant rider spearing a lion while his faithful dog trails behind. Commissioned in the 8th century, it's a powerful and enigmatic monument celebrating the might of the early Bulgarian khans. The surrounding archaeological reserve whispers of a vast pagan sanctuary and a formidable fortress that once crowned the plateau above.
Collection Highlights
The main event is, without question, the colossal rock relief itself, accompanied by weathered Greek inscriptions that chronicle historic events. Scattered around the base of the cliff, you'll find the ruins of 'Madara,' a significant settlement from both the Roman and Medieval Bulgarian periods.
Visitor Information
You'll find it signposted from the village of Madara, about a 20-minute drive from Shumen. Wear good shoes—the path up to the viewing platform involves a fair number of steps, but the view of the rider and the plains stretching out below is absolutely worth the climb.
Architecture & Building
This isn't a built structure but an immense open-air rock carving, an unparalleled example of early medieval Bulgarian monumental art etched directly onto a vertical cliff face.
Contact & Location
Address: 9971, Мадара, Шумен, България
Phone: +359 53 132 095
