Ancient fortresses on the grounds of Balkan countries aren’t a novelty anymore, even the ones that were built by all the great empires, like the fortress in the Bulgarian city of Shumen. However, such unique archaeological landmarks as the Madara Horseman can’t be found in just any popular touristy destination. Only a few kilometres outside of Shumen, located in a vicinity that can’t be seen from the fortress’s walls, a Hungarian archaeologist Felix Kanitz discovered an unusual rock relief. Despite the thorough study of the unique monument conducted by scientists, there are still many unsolved mysteries surrounding the Madara Horseman.

The relief was carved in the 8th century into a rock that is considered sacred by the Bulgarian people. A male figure of impressive size riding a warhorse is located 23 meters above ground level. He sits calmly in his saddle with a traditionally high cantle, revelling in his victories. The saddles with such cantles enabled riders to rest right in their saddle during long military campaigns. His raised head is crowned with an iron helmet, and his clothes barely cover his knees. In his right hand, the Horseman holds a spear thrust into a mountain lion, the reins are in his left hand. His stare peered into the distance, is filled with serenity and confidence in his invincibility. Next to the Madara Horseman, there is a dog. Those animals were considered sacred by ancient Bulgarian tribes, and would often present in depictions of warriors. According to historians, the rock relief symbolised the might of the Bulgarian Empire during the rule of khans before the Christianisation.

On both sides of the Horseman, there are ancient Byzantine inscriptions. The most commonly suggested candidates for authorship are three Bulgarian khans – Tervel, Krum and his son Omurtag. All of them depict important events of the Bulgarian Empire history and its relationship with the Byzantine Empire.