Inspiration, Nature, and History Near Plovdiv

Close to Plovdiv, high above the village of Sitovo, lies the mystical place known as Shtudgrad.

Once upon a time, this site housed a Thracian fortress and a rock-cult complex. The rocky plateau spans two levels, and its ancient ruins still whisper memories of the people who lived there long ago. It is believed to be closely linked to the Bessi tribe.

I am TRAXI, and in this article, I will take you with me on my journey there.

As an artist, wherever I go, I always gather inspiration. For me, travel is never just movement through space; it is a profound encounter with the energy of new places. Today, I am taking you to one such destination—a true meeting point between Nature and History: the ancient sanctuary of Shtudgrad near the village of Sitovo, not far from Plovdiv.

Sitovo – Magic Etched in Stone and Nature

Sitovo and I are old friends—I always feel something magical there. The stone houses clinging to the steep slopes, the majestic natural views, and that almost unearthly atmosphere draw me back time and time again. Some time ago, I painted the church of St. Petka in the village, but this time my goal was different: to reach Shtudgrad.

Shtudgrad – A Mystery of Rocks and Antiquity

Shtudgrad is an area that once sheltered a Thracian fortress and rock-cult sanctuary. Locals also call it "Shtuda grada" (The Impregnable Fortress).

The rocky plateau consists of two levels, with the upper one featuring the distinct ruins of the fortress. Although the site has not been officially excavated, it is believed to date back to the Bronze Age and remained in use through Late Antiquity and perhaps even into the Middle Ages. Hypotheses suggest that the Bessi—an ancient Thracian tribe that left a deep mark on history—once lived here.

Along the Path to the Sanctuary

I laced up my hiking boots (though I walked barefoot for a good part of the way 😊) and headed upward. The trail starts along a wide cart track offering picturesque views, later transitioning into a narrow forest path.

And right there, the real fairy tale begins—the path is strewn with whimsical stone formations: a rocky plateau, a natural stone gate, fortress remnants, a small bridge, and many more rock wonders. It feels as though every shape tells its own ancient story.

Walking barefoot on the earth is a truly special experience—you feel how every step connects you directly to the ground. Our foot soles contain points that get naturally massaged, bestowing health and vitality. As I walked, I felt free and completely authentic.

The Magic of Shtudgrad

When I finally reached the plateau, a majestic vista opened up before me. The rocks form a mysterious structure, and the energy there is almost otherworldly. It feels as though time has stopped and you have stepped into another realm. For me, this transition was pure magic—an encounter with antiquity and the living force of nature.

I am already carrying fresh inspiration back with me for my next painting.

And when was the last time you walked barefoot on the earth?