Krivus Fortress

The Krivus fortress is situated in southern Bulgaria, in the easternmost part of the West Rhodope Mountain – the Yellow Part, near the village of Bashevo. It was constructed as early as 10th century to protect the region surrounding the Arda River. The stronghold is located on a small hill on the edge of a rock, some 100 m above the Arda River, which made it almost impregnable. Today there are significant remains of the fortress left. The fortified wall reaches 6 m at places. The embrasures and the stronghold’s entry are also in comparatively good repair. The fortress was mentioned in some Byzantine chronicles. During archeological excavations some coins and Christian symbols were found. There are traces of a church that was situated in the center of the courtyard. Lots of arms were found here too. Near Krivus is located the medieval fortress Patmos.