Cape Kaliakra is a beautiful place – an archaeological, historical and natural reserve. Its cultural and natural value can be found in the mediaeval fortress remains, the caves, the rock niches, the diversity of the birds nesting here and the glorious view to the Black Sea.

Situated in the Southern Dobruja province of Bulgaria, in the Black Sea Coast, it is located 12 km east from the town of Kavarna and 60 km northeast from the city of Varna. A long and narrow rocky peninsula cuts 2 kilometers through the sea and impresses with its 60-70 meters high rocks, embracing it alongside.

I did some research before going there and later spoke with an old lady looking after the chapel, placed right on the top of the cape. From what I’ve learned, the real story of Kaliakra Cape is hidden under the veil of various legends. One of them says that the typical red color of the rocks comes from the blood of the defenders of the citadel spilled in a fight … Whereas in reality, the redish color comes from the iron oxide composition of the rocks, which is often compared to a medieval sword, cutting through the blue and green sea waters.

During the Ottoman invasion in the 15^th century the fortress was subject to an extremely cruel siege. All warriors and citizens of the fortress were slaughtered. The legend says that after conquering the fortress, the Ottomans left alive only 40 young maids. They decided to choose death to life in disgrace. So when no one was watching them they plaited together their long hairs, held their hands and jumped into the sea from the high cliffs.

There is a museum exhibition set in one of the many small caves of the cape. It tells the story of the cape and the settlement from Thracian times to present days. It works from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. every day, May through October. If you visit the cape by car there is a parking space available, and the charge is included in the entrance fee of BGN 3.

There is also a food establishment of some sort half of which is in the largest cave, other part of which is in front of the cave, forming a spacious terrace, which unfortunately provides very limited view. We had coffee there but to be honest I would not dare eating in that restaurant.