Observations on the Pagan Temple in Pliska’s Citadel

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Pages: 59-90
DOI: https://doi.org/10.54664/GMSJ2315

Abstract:

The article examines researchers’ opinions about the purpose of the pagan temple in Pliska’s citadel as a building, particularly its construction history, the location of its entrances, its superstructure, orientation, interior and exterior, the periods of its construction, its dating, the nature thereof (public or private), to whom it was dedicated, the rituals carried out there, the facilities that are functionally related to it, as well as its fate after the adoption of Christianity. Remains of a wooden building were found under the temple, which was probably also a pagan temple. It was built after the fire of 811 and was soon replaced by a stone temple. It has two construction periods. During the first period, the temple was probably accessible only to the ruler. To the east of the temple, ovens were found in which food was prepared, as well as a building functionally connected to the temple. Ritual meals with the participation of the aristocracy were presumably held around the temple. During the second period, a vestibule was built which, together with the surrounding corridors, was probably accessible to the aristocracy. Ritual meals are likely to have been held in the vestibule.

Keywords:

pagan temple, citadel, Pliska

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