The Sakar Mountains in southeastern Bulgaria are not only known for their stunning natural beauty but also for their remarkable outdoor sculptures. Among the most famous is the Madara Horseman, a UNESCO-listed rock relief carved into a cliff near the village of Madara. This ancient masterpiece dates back to the 8th century and depicts a horseman triumphing over a lion, symbolizing Bulgarian strength.
Another notable sculpture is the Stone Mushrooms, a natural rock formation near Belintash that has been shaped by erosion into surreal, mushroom-like pillars. While not man-made, these formations are often included in discussions of Sakar’s sculptural wonders due to their artistic appearance.
In recent years, modern sculptures have also appeared in the region, such as the Monument of Freedom near Topolovgrad, which honors Bulgaria’s liberation from Ottoman rule. These works blend history, nature, and artistry, making the Sakar Mountains a unique destination for sculpture enthusiasts and travelers alike.