Thracian tomb Shoushmanets
Type: Archaeological site
Location: Town Shipka »
In Bulgarian: Тракийска гробищна могила Шушманец »
Shushmanets Necropolis is located eastern of town of Shipka. It was discovered (along with two other tombs - The Griffons and Helvetia) in 1996 after studies sponsored by the Foundation of Helvetia (Switzerland) (one of the tombs is named to it).
The tomb dates back to the V-IV century BC. Its unique design make it one of the most representative masterpieces of Thracian architecture.
The necropolis consists of a wide corridor, rectangular hall with a semi-cylindrical vault and a round dome camera whose surfaces are covered with fine shiny white plaster.
The entrance to the chamber has an Ionian door frame, crowned by pediment with palmettos. In the middle of the hall leading to the burial chamber, is situated a graceful Ionic column.
The chamber has round form, with vertical walls and 7 Doric columns. At its center is situated a massive Doric column, leaning 15 radial blocks forming the tip of the domed structure.
Unfortunately, the tomb was robbed in the antiquity.