The Bulgarian “Utroba” (womb) cave was most likely a Thracian ritual site. Here is the story!

by Impress story
38 views

An intriguing cave was found during an expedition close to the Bulgarian town of Kardzhali. Taking its name from the Bulgarian word for “womb,” Utroba Cave. It features rocky recesses and carvings, one of which bears a striking resemblance to a human vulva. So, did natural processes produce it or was there another reason?

Researchers who studied Utroba Cave more closely found that several of its features—like a gap that seems to have been enlarged and shaped into the rock wall with semicircular carvings—had been purposefully carved by people.

Something so carefully made implies that it probably had a significant function in the past.

Regarding authorship, it might have been written by a people known as the Thracians, who are connected to a number of sanctuaries carved out of the rock in the area. They were a prehistoric people who lived in what is now Bulgaria in Europe, the region where Utroba Cave was discovered.

They lived in an advanced civilization that produced poetry and music, and they dated to 3500 BC.  Utroba Cave extends across an area of approximately 2 square kilometers beyond its vulvar niche. Several rock formations and sculptures within the cave attest to the site’s cultural significance.

The Republic of Bulgaria’s Ministry of Tourism claims that sharapanas, or man-made rock pools filled with wine for ceremonial purposes, would have been the location of rituals.

When the light hits the cave at precisely noon and “penetrates” it through a tiny aperture, part of Utroba’s magic comes to life.

They state, “It is named [Utroba] because of its shape, which is similar to the uterus of a woman.” At the southern inner end of the cave, there is an altar etched there. In time with the sun’s movements, the light projection at the cave’s entrance moves along the cave’s walls and floor.

It peaks around midday and stretches to an altar that was made to resemble a woman’s uterus along the cave’s central axis. Many uncertainties remain regarding the specific events that may have occurred in the cave. According to a 2018 research by Evgeni Koev, it might have served as a safe haven for infertile individuals or a place for ceremonial offerings meant to encourage life, whether it be through pregnancy or farming.

According to Koev, some areas of the cave resemble fruits and grains in terms of shape, which implies that it may have also improved soil fertility.Though there are still many unanswered issues about the use of Utroba Cave and its significance to its users, this artistic collaboration between the rocky defects of the earth and the people of antiquity is undoubtedly one of the most outstanding aspects of the Bulgarian environment.

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Close Read More