Mezek (Мезек) Fortress

The origins of Mezek Fortress date back to the late 11th century, with archaeological finds suggesting earlier settlement. It was built during the reign of the Byzantine Emperor Alexios I Komnenos (1081-1117). Its main function was to monitor the area between the Maritsa and Arda rivers. Historians debate whether Mezek is the fortress Neutzikon mentioned in ancient writings or even Versinikia, where Khan Krum defeated the Byzantine army in 813. The complex, which covered an area of about 0.7 hectares in the form of an irregular quadrangle (110x60 m), was in operation until the Ottoman invasion in the late 14th century. Its walls, built of rock stones with white mortar and decorated with three rows of bricks, were once crowned with battlements, which remained until about 1900. Nine round towers, over 10 meters high, reinforced the defenses. Archaeological excavations uncovered granaries with charred wheat, as well as numerous iron arrowheads, spurs, and horseshoes. Around 1900, parts of the fortress walls, especially the northern side, were dismantled for the construction of Turkish barracks in Svilengrad. Restoration and conservation work took place in 1963, 1973, and 2007.

Mezek Fortress is located on Kaleto Hill near the village of Mezek, which belongs to the municipality of Svilengrad in the Haskovo district of Bulgaria. It is situated at an altitude of approximately 220 meters above sea level.

The southern, western, and eastern walls are preserved up to the height of the former battlement platform, while the northern wall is only visible at ground level. An information and tourist center offers further insights into the history of the complex.