Mineralni bani Municipality
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History



The settlement has been famous as a spa resort since Roman times, when the hot springs (14 in number) attracted people with their healing effect. During the Middle Ages, the glory of the mineral water and the miraculous influence of the numerous hot springs in these places continued. It is an indisputable fact that as early as the 2nd century there was a settlement around the hot mineral springs. According to the historical records, here was located the so-called town of Toplicos (Toplica) with over 12,000 inhabitants. The discovered archeological monuments confirm that a busy way of life was bubbling around the mineral springs during the different historical periods. The Thracian megalithic monuments are especially interesting for cultural tourism. Their name literally means "big - stone" – they are built of impressive in sizes stone blocks. In fact, real megalithic monuments in Thrace are the dolmens and cromlechs. By analogy, as well as by territorial, chronological and cultural community, other monuments such as rock tombs, niches, pools, etc. are included to them, too. Very often they are found united in impressive cult complexes, such as in the village of Sarnitsa. As a rule, the megaliths are located in beautiful places, on heights with pronounced above the surrounding terrain rock massifs, which offer picturesque panoramic views.

The tribal affiliation of the creators of the megalithic monuments has not been categorically proven. The archaeological data on the life of the Thracian population from the Early Iron Age in these lands is quite scarce. However, from  the research up to now, it is clear that during this period there is a fairly extensive settlement system, composed of both open settlements of small sizes, as well as of well-protected fortresses, built mostly on naturally fortified heights.