Aytos is an old settlement, founded by the Thracian tribes. Archaeological finds near the town from the New Stone Age testify that a settlement existed in this place long ago. The remains of three towers (northwest of the town) are from the medieval fortress of Aetos (Greek for eagle), erected between 650 and 750, hence its present name. According to an ancient legend, the settlement was founded by Aethos (“eagle”), a disciple and follower of Orpheus. According to another legend, Aetos means “Eagle's Nest”, the name originates from the time before Bulgaria fell under Byzantine rule, as Aetos was one of the last “fallen” towns, whose location (surrounded by mountains) protected it.