Just like Ukraine, Bulgaria had been on my "to do" list for quite some time. One place, in particular, the Buzludzha Monument, high up on a peak in the Balkan mountains. The UFO-shaped building is the most fascinating structure, there is nothing else quite like it.
By the time I had finally found time to arrange a trip, I had received information that it may no longer be accessible, this was a terrible blow. Did I travel 1200 miles by air, drive three hours through the night and then hike through deep snow and freezing temperatures on a hunch? Damn right.
I finally arrived at the foot of the Monument, -13c and deep snow at around 3.00am local time. Head torch on, backpack on, I began the ascent to attempt to find the only access point I knew, a small hole in the ground with a 10-foot drop into the bowels of the building.
The relief was overwhelming when I came across it, all I had to do now was descend into the dark space without injury... not so easy.
Despite the freezing temperatures, watching the sunrise over the Balkan Mountain's from inside the monument was truly mesmerising, a true experience. A sight to behold.
Stepping into the main building was just as incredible, such an imposing room, vast in size but in a very poor state. The remaining handmade Mosaics are quite something too. Unfortunately, I can't see this building lasting much longer without intervention. It was a true privilege to finally get to see it...
See photograph, Discoidal.
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