Kachulata Sanctuary

The megalithic sanctuary in the Kachulata locality, about 7 km north of Strelcha, occupies an isolated rocky summit with excellent exposure in all directions. A large spindle-shaped monolith rises at the highest point, attracting attention. The rock blocks in the locality bear traces of human activity, including two rock thrones with different orientations: one faces east and the other northeast. Hollows of various forms can also be seen—oval, elliptical, cauldron-shaped and those known as Marko's Footsteps. In the northern part of the elevation are small rocks bearing traces of working. There has also been intensive interference by treasure hunters, one of the main problems in preserving the monument.

Scholars led by Associate Professor Dr Alexey Gotsev are studying the megalithic sites at Kachulata. They are arranged so that on 22 June, the day of the summer solstice, sunrise can be seen through one of the clefts. Interestingly, the megalithic sanctuaries around Strelcha—Skumsale, Kulata and Kachulata—together with other uninvestigated sanctuaries such as Isara, Turchinov Kamak and Studen Kladenets, lie along a straight line.

Scientific investigation of these sites also includes an archaeoastronomical assessment by Dr Alexey Stoev. These rock formations are believed to be connected with celestial phenomena.