Bulgaria Inside

The southern slope of Surnena Sredna Gora Mountain protects till present day one of Stara Zagora’s biggest treasures – Metodi Kousev or Aiazmoto park.

The park is the first European-style park to be set up in the country. Its history and the legends told are quite intriguing.

Until the beginning of the 19th century, a centuries-old forest existed in the region of the park. A healing spring flowed there. It was called the spring of St. Todor. According to a legend, the ruler of Stara Zagora has a daughter who got sick. He allowed Christian healers to take care of it. They took her to the spring and she was cured. Over the centuries, people came to the area to pray and find cure. During the Ottoman rule, Mahmud II sultan decided to destroy the forest and the healing spring. The region turned into an abandoned place.

In 1895, bishop Metodi Kousev decided to turn the hill into a place for walks and relaxation. The beginning was difficult, but Kousev wrote to monasteries and churches in numerous countries. He asked them for help in the creation of a garden. In this manner, Kousev collected seeds of plants from Lebanon, Italy, Spain, Turkey and other countries.

Today, the park has over 150 exotic plant species. A large area of the park has been named a monument of park culture of national importance.

Aiazmoto is the place, where you can explore various landmarks. Bulgaria’s biggest in area zoo is situated there. Some of its species include camels, bears, lions and beavers.

The residence of Stara Zagora’s buishop is also situated in Aiazmoto. You can taje a walk to the astronomical lab, as well.

St. Teodor Tiron chapel was created in the park to honor Stara Zagora’s patron saint.

Stara Zagora residents can be proud with their park. It is uniquely beautiful and offers amazing view of the Thracian valley.

Tennis courts, cafés, a summer theater, restaurants and a hotel function in the park.