The Ancient Beehive Tomb near Pomorie (ancient Anchialos) is a unique monument with no parallel in Southeast Europe. Dating back to the 2nd – 3rd century AD, it represents an extraordinary synthesis of a traditional Thracian beehive tomb and a Roman mausoleum (heroon). It is the largest structure of its kind ever discovered in Bulgaria, hidden beneath a massive burial mound. Unique Architecture and Construction The tomb is renowned for its impressive scale and the sophisticated engineering of stone and brickwork: - Dromos and Chamber: A 22-meter-long corridor (dromos) leads into a grand circular chamber with a diameter of 11.60 meters and a height of 5.50 meters. - The Hollow Column: In the center stands a massive hollow column, 3.30 meters in diameter. It flares at the top to merge with the domed ceiling. Originally, a stone spiral staircase inside the column led to the surface of the mound. - Interior Details: Five niches line the circular wall, likely intended for the funeral urns of a wealthy Thracian family. The walls were once covered in murals; fragments of green-tinted plaster are still visible today. Spiritual Significance Archaeologists believe the structure served as a heroon—a temple-mausoleum dedicated to the sun cult and the veneration of divinized ancestors from a powerful local family. Practical Information - Location: 1 km from the town of Pomorie, near the Fruit Growing Station, 300 meters off the main road to Burgas. - Mound Dimensions: 8 meters high and 60 meters in diameter at the base. - Tourism: The site is open to the public and is a must-see for history enthusiasts visiting the Black Sea coast.
Burgas
1.7 km away
Burgas
10.0 km away
Burgas
11.6 km away
Burgas
13.1 km away
Thracian Tomb and Sanctuary is located in Burgas, Bulgaria.
Thracian Tomb and Sanctuary is most easily reached by car. Use the coordinates above to navigate, or open the location in OpenStreetMap or your preferred maps app for turn-by-turn directions. Public transport options vary by region — for remote destinations a rental car gives the most flexibility.
Thracian Tomb and Sanctuary can be visited year-round. Verify current opening hours directly with the museum before your visit, as schedules change seasonally and on public holidays.
Opening hours and admission fees vary, and most Bulgarian museums close one day per week (commonly Monday). Verify current schedules and prices directly with the museum or the local tourist information office before visiting Thracian Tomb and Sanctuary, especially on public holidays.
