Sashova Mound

The Sashova Mound tomb is a Thracian domed funerary structure beside the Golyama Arsenalka tomb.

The archaeological material discovered beneath Sashova Mound provides grounds for suggesting that the last burial in the chamber took place in the first half of the 2nd century BC. The building was probably used as a mausoleum over the following decades, during which it was maintained and extended. Professor Kitov suggests that the tomb was constructed in the middle or second half of the 3rd century BC.

In its historical context, the monumental tomb beneath Sashova Mound has no direct parallels in the ancient world because of its architectural type. Although generally classified as a tomb of the 'Macedonian type', it is distinguished by its semicylindrical vault and stone couch. The tomb combines different building traditions that still cannot be explained. It was probably used as a mausoleum during the 3rd century BC, when Thracian culture suffered a severe blow from Celtic invaders.

The tomb contains various artefacts and objects reflecting the high social status of the buried ruler. These include a gold mask, a battle helmet, weapons, objects decorated with silver and gold, pottery vessels and other grave goods. The deceased's clothing was sewn with beads, and the objects found provide important information about Thracian culture during this period.