Bulgaria Inside

A small, picturesque Bulgarian town by the name of Malko Turnovo is situated five km away from the border between Bulgaria and Turkey. Its population of 3500 people makes Malko Turnovo the biggest settlement in the central part of Strandzha Mountain.

Malko Turnovo is situated 470 km away from Sofia and 76 km away from the coastal city of Bourgas.

According to historic evidence, the area was populated in the 4th- 3rd centuries BC. Ore deposits in the region were used during that period and further during the Roman period.

After 330, Strandzha became one of the biggest ore providers for the Roman empire. As a result, the settlement grew and developed ore production.

Sanctuaries, ancient buildings, tombs and fortresses discovered in the area give sufficient evidence of the region’s importance for the Thracians.

The contemporary settlement appeared in the beginning of the 17th century. Centuries after its appearance, the settlement experienced several major migrations. These were most widespread during assaults and after the liberation of Bulgaria from Ottoman rule in 1878, when the settlement remained inside the Ottoman empire.

Locals actively fought for independence and Malko Turnovo turned into a revolutionary center. The settlement became independent only in 1913, as a result of the Balkan Wars.

Today, Malko Turnovo attracts tourists with its numerous landmarks. Its history museum is one of the must-sees.

Strandzha is known for its numerous ancient landmarks among which Thracian tombs. Some of the most visited attractions include the Mishkova Niva tomb, the tomb in Propada region, Kamuka Thracian settlement and the Evrenozovo Roman tomb.

Petrova Niva historic region is also situated nearby. The region of Malko Turnovo features many other landmarks among which fortress remains.

To learn more about the interesting places to visit in the region, find the Malko Turnovo tourism center. It is situated on the central town square. Accommodation is available in Malko Turnovo, as well as in nearby villages.