Pobiti kamani (The Stone Forest) is a natural phenomenon 18 km west of Varna. The sight still fascinates the Scholars, as numerous theories fail to offer a satisfactory explanation for its formation.
Russian archaeologist and historian Victor Teplyakov, a war correspondent during the 1829 Russo-Turkish War, was the first one to describe the fossil forest. Englishman William Hamilton noted in 1854 that the stone pillars rising right out of the ground were a natural phenomenon.
Some time later, another Englishman, geologist T. Sprat, confirmed that the stone pillars were a geological formation, a result from the work of air temperatures, winds, humidity and sands.
Ever since scientists have been arguing about the inorganic or organic origin of these workings of nature. The prevailing opinion is that 50 million years ago there was a vast sea whose waves washed the foothills of the Alps.
When the waters receded, the deposits were exposed to erosion; the rains washed away the loose earth and the solid parts, which the winds rounded in the course of millennia, remained upright giant desert stalactites that one sees today.
Some scientists advance the theory of an organic origin. Millions of years ago it was a real forest but the giant-size species are unknown. Scientists may argue and one gazes and takes pictures. The sunset or moonlight picture defies description.
You can reach The Stone Forest by car or by public transport line 43 to bus stop "Razklon Banovo" in Slanchevo village.
Admission:
Adults - €3.00 / €5.87
Students - €2.00 / €3.91
Children under 7 years old - Free
For groups over 15 people: adults €2.00 / €3.91
Lecture - €10.00 / €19.56
Days determined by Order of the Ministry of Culture or Municipality of Varna - Free
Opening hours:
Summer:
May - October: 10:00 – 19:30hrs, Days off - Monday and Tuesday
Winter:
November: 10:00 - 17:00hrs, Days off - Monday and Tuesday
December: the site will be open for visitors only by prior request
January - April: 10:00 - 18:00, Days off - Sunday and Monday
Contact details:
Telephone: +359 888 544 506
www.museumvarna.com
