The Krakra stronghold is a medieval building in the South-West of the town of Pernik, located on a small rocky plateau. The place where she was built, was not chosen by chance. As historians believe it had an important strategic value – Krakra played the role of shield in the years of the third crusade (1189-1192). Then the castle was abandoned and no longer used.

Historians believe that the fortress was built in the IX century, during the reign of Khan Omurtag. The examination of the ruins showed that it was an imposing structure with walls two metres thickness, length of nearly 800 meters. To this day preserved the foundations of residential buildings and three churches (large Basilica, a two-storey Church-the tomb of Church and personal ruler of the fortress). Archaeological research has shown that even before the castle was built on this spot was a small fortified settlement.

In this castle lived and passed outstanding historical figures of Bulgaria, there was a fateful event for the country. The name of the building associated with the name of the warlord Krakra Perniciaro, who lived during the reign of Tsar Samuil. The Chronicles describe him as a righteous and honest person, who did not tolerate bribery and was always ready for military action. In his possession was a settlement of Pernik and 35 fortresses, among which was cracra. Under his leadership, the fortress has twice offered strong resistance to the Byzantine conquerors first in 1004, and then in 1016. At the foot of the buildings lies the area called Bloody. As legend has it, in 1016 during the brutal 88-day siege of the castle died here so many of the Byzantines that the fields around became red of spilled blood.

On-site excavations, archaeologists discovered a unique find silver print Tsar Peter I. According to legend, the king was here shortly before I met Ivan of Rila, the first Bulgarian who was elevated to sainthood.

Now the Krakra stronghold and the surrounding area is an interesting monument of history and culture under the open sky, and a wonderful place to relax in the fresh air. Pleased to come here as citizens of Bulgarian and foreign tourists.