Demir Baba Teke, Sveshtari, Isperih municipality, Razgrad, Bulgaria

       Demir Baba Teke - a sacred place for 3000 years

Demir Baba Teke is located within the boundaries of the historical and archaeological reserve "Sboryanovo". The reserve covers the territory in the western part of the Ludogorsko plateau, along the river Krapinec, between the villages of Malak Porovets and Sveshtari in the municipality of Isperih. It is a unique complex consisting of settlements, sanctuaries and necropolises of ancient times.

The tekke (tomb) is revered by the Alevis (also known as the Allians). This is an ethno-religious group among Muslims who have their own customs and beliefs. They do not use the established Muslim ritual, but worship the tombs (turbets) of their saints. One of them is Demir Baba (The Iron Father).

There is no exact historical information about Demir Baba. According to locals, he lived in the 16th century. Many legends tell of his power and the miracles he created.

The place where the Teke Demir Baba was built at the beginning of the 17th century was sacred to the various tribes and peoples who inhabited this area for more than 2000 years before its construction. 

Christians also worship the place. According to the legends, there was an ancient Thracian settlement, a Bulgarian consecrated place and a monastery here. 

Of the numerous buildings, only the tomb of Demir Baba has survived. The altar rock next to the entrance of the courtyard of Demir Baba Teke is also preserved. 

There are other interesting places in the area, including the Sveshtari Tomb, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.