Storgozia Fortress, Pleven

Overview

The remains of the fortress "Storgozia" are located in the park "Kaylaka" about 4 km south of Pleven. It is built on a high flat plateau, on the left bank of the river Tuchenitsa, naturally protected by the steep banks of the river.

The ancient settlement of Storgozia originates from the Roman roadside station of Via Trayana, connecting Escus with Philippopolis and located in the center of modern Pleven. Better business conditions attract settlers from the surrounding small villages to the station. However, as a result of the frequent barbarian invasions, the Roman authorities took measures to protect the population. Taking advantage of the naturally fortified terrain of today's Kaylaka Park, they built their defense facilities. At the beginning of the 4th century, 31 decares were surrounded by a powerful fortress wall, 2.20 m wide and 2 m high, built of crushed stone and white mortar solder. The three sides of the fortress are protected by rocks 10-15 m high.

As a result of archeological excavations, two fortress gates, three towers reinforcing the fortress-defensive line, remains of residential buildings, a choreum (public granary) were found here. Remains of an early Christian basilica from the 4th century have been found in the eastern part of Storgozia, with impressive dimensions - 45.20 m long and 22.20 m wide. In shape it is three-aisled, triapsid with a large narthex from the west. Assuming by the discovered archeological material, this cult facility had a rich interior and exterior decoration. Archaeological finds from Storgozia and its necropolis - pottery, weapons, coins - testify that this fortified settlement existed until the end of the VI century. During the Middle Ages, the village continued to exist as a strong fortress with well-developed crafts, trade, exchange activities. Local legends connect it with the last days of Tsar Ivan Shishman.