Nestled along the Golyama Kamchia River, just 30 km from Pliska, the capital of the First Bulgarian Empire, Veliki Preslav stands as a testament to over 1100 years of history, entrenched in the realm of fortresses and cultural significance. Established as a town-fortress under the rule of Knyaz Boris I, it gained prominence as the capital of the Bulgarian state after the Preslav Council of the Church and the People in 893.
Veliki Preslav became a spiritual and literary hub during the Golden Age of Bulgaria, particularly under Tsar Simeon I's reign (893 – 927). In medieval Bulgaria, it transformed into one of Southeastern Europe's most beautiful and grandeur towns, revealing significant monuments of the Pliska and Preslav cultures.
The town faced pivotal moments in its history, witnessing a shift in power as Knyaz Svetoslav I of Kiev conquered it in 970, subsequently moving the capital of Kievan Rus' there. However, in 971, the Byzantines, led by Emperor Ioan I Tzimiskes, conquered and plundered the town, renaming it Ioanopolis. It remained under Byzantine rule until the uprising of boyars Asen and Peter restored it as a Bulgarian fortress.
Much like its predecessor Pliska, the fortress of Preslav boasted inner and outer fortification systems. The inner fortress, an R-shaped structure with round and square towers, stood at the heart of the Inner Town. The plateau housed palaces, including the well-preserved Big Palace and Western Palace, showcasing the architectural prowess of the time.
Veliki Preslav's architectural legacy is exemplified by the Golden Church, constructed during Tsar Simeon I's reign. This magnificent church, situated on a high terrace near the palaces, stands as a unique monument of Bulgarian architecture from the First Bulgarian Empire. The ruler's temple, discovered during excavations, revealed impressive dimensions and direct links to Tsar Simeon I or Tsar Peter's reign in the 10th century.
References:The Broch of Clickimin is a large and well preserved, though somewhat restored broch near Lerwick. Originally built on an island in Clickimin Loch (now increased in size by silting and drainage), it was approached by a stone causeway. The water-level in the loch was reduced in 1874, leaving the broch high and dry. The broch is situated within a walled enclosure and, unusually for brochs, features a large 'blockhouse' between the opening in the enclosure and the broch itself. Another unusual feature is a stone slab featuring sculptured footprints, located in the causeway which approached the site. Situated across the loch is the Clickimin Leisure Centre.