Articles from category: Landmarks from bulgariainside.com

Kolio Ficheto’s Bridge, Byala

Sat, 30 Oct 2010 16:27:00 +0300

Bulgarian craftsman Kolio Ficheto started the construction of a bridge over Yantra River near the town of Byala in 1867. Construction was set to begin in 1865, when local Ottoman ruler Midhat Pasha demanded the creation of the bridge. His idea was to create a facility that will connect Rousse, Veliko Turnovo, Botevgrad and Sofia. Kolio Ficheto returned to Veliko Turnovo where he used wax candles to model the bridge. For days, the craftsman heated the wax in order to be able to shape it. His model had 14 arches and resembled old Roman bridges. Its construction was simplified but solid. Once done, Kolio Ficheto returned to Byala to calculate the river water level. Construction started in 1865 and was finalized two years later. The bridge was already in use in 1867 and connected the two banks of Yantra. The bridge is 276 m long and nine m wide. The arches are decorated and...

Boukelon Fortress

Sat, 30 Oct 2010 14:05:00 +0300

The village of Matochina is situated on the border between Bulgaria and Turkey, on the bank of Toundzha River 40 km away from the town of Svilengrad. A steep hill hosts the remains of Boukelon fortress, one of the best preserved military constructions in Bulgaria. The fortress is 65 m wide and 150 m long. Its tower and part of the fortress wall have been preserved best. All facilities were made of stone having brick belts passing through them. The fortress had three levels. Its highest floor had semi-cylindrical shape and acted as a small chapel. Boukelon fortress was constructed during the Roman period. A major battle took place there in 387. The Roman empire was defeated and emperor Valentinian was killed near Boukelon. New construction over the existing tower took place throughout time. One of the renovations took place between the 12th and 14th centuries. According...

Varna's Pobiti Kamuni

Sat, 30 Oct 2010 13:39:00 +0300

Pobiti Kamuni is a group of stone formations near the coastal city of Varna. The villages of Slunchevo, Banovo and Strashimirovo are situated nearby. Rocks have been scattered throughout quite a large area and the formations have been divided into several groups. Scientists cannot agree on the origin of the rocks and some believe they originated from coral formations (organic) while other think that erosion shaped the phenomena (non-organic). Rocks resemble columns. The height varies and the tallest ones reach five meters. The diameter of formations is also different. Most of the columns are hollow inside and have been filled with sand. Since some rocks resemble shapes, people have given them names like Stone Soldiers, The Camel, The Throne, The Stone Forest. Pobiti Kamuni was named a nature landmark in 1937. Accommodation Sites Golden Tulip

Tourism Sites in Sozopol

Thu, 28 Oct 2010 13:07:00 +0300

Sozopol's old part preserves many ancient remains. Its archeology museum brags unique collections of rare Greek dishes from the 4th century BC, as well as a collection of 120 amphoras. The museum is situated in the building of St. Cyril and Methodius church. The Bulgarian Orthodox Church agreed to donate the building in 1961. Later, the municipality provided several more rooms in the culture center for the needs of the museum. Artifacts have been organized under two themes, archeology and Christian art from the 17th to the 19th century. The old part of Sozopol also preserves fortress walls, churches, landmarks under the protection of UNESCO and revival period houses. The museum functions each day during the summer from 8 am to 5 pm. During the winter, its working time is from 8 am to midday and from 1pm to 5 pm, apart from Saturday and Sunday. More information about...

St. Dimitrii Basarbovski Rock Monastery

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 17:01:00 +0300

Basarbovski monastery is situated in the picturesque Roussenski Lom valley. It is located 10 km away from the town of Rousse and carries the name of a nearby village. Evidence of the monastery’s existence can be found in 15th century Ottoman chronicles. During the Ottoman presence, the monastery lost its inhabitants. A monk settled there and started restoring the monastery in 1937. A flood took place in 1940, destroying some of the sanctuary’s property. Donations helped monks add new living premises to the complex. Work was finalized on August 30 1940. The most famous resident of the monastery was St. Dimitrii Basarbovski. He was a simple man and led ascetic life. The saint lived in the mountain and died there. Many miracles occurred after his death and according to records, the remains of Dimtrii Basrabovski provided cure to many. St. Dimtrii...

Razgrad - the Ancient Roman City of Abrittus

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 14:20:00 +0300

Abrittus preserve is situated several kilometers away from the town of Razgrad and holds the remains of an ancient Roman settlement. A Thracian settlement was initially located there. In the 1st century, Roman conquerors came to the area and established a military camp. A century later, the camp turned into a city. Its apogee came in the 2nd and 3rd centuries. Later, the city got a wall having 35 towers and four gates. Once the empire accepted Christianity, Abritus turned into a bishop’s center. In the end of the 6th century, the city experienced decline because of barbaric assaults. A Bulgarian fortification appeared in time, but was destroyed during the conquest of the Kiev prince Svetoslav. Archaeological work in the region began in the end of the 19th century but major discoveries were made from the 50s to the 70s of the 20th century. Scientists looked for...

Lozen Monastery St. Spas

Fri, 02 Jul 2010 16:28:00 +0300

Lozen monastery St. Spas is situated near Sofia, four to five km away from the village of Dolni Lozen. The proximity to Sofia has turned the monastery into a favorite leisure spot for residents of the capital. The monastery is situated on the slopes of Lozenska Mountain and offers great view. St. Spas was set up in the 11th to 12th centuries and was the easternmost of the monasteries in Sofia region. During the Ottoman conquest, the monastery was torn down. It underwent renovation works in the 17th century and acted as a calligraphy center and school. Since the monks participated in uprisings, the monastery was torn down once again in the 18th century. A third renovation took place in 1821. A new church was constructed over the remains of the old sanctuary. The three domes distinguish it from the typical Orthodox architecture. In 1868, painters Nikola Obrazopisov, Hristaki...

Markeli Fortress

Fri, 02 Jul 2010 14:18:00 +0300

Markeli fortress is situated 7.5 km away from the town of Karnobat and 50 km away from the coastal city of Bourgas. The medieval fortress is situated on the Hisar highland, part of the eastern Stara Planina range. Markeli acted as an important military and strategic center and played major role in the relations between Bulgarians and Byzantines. The fortress protected the sole road to Vurbishki and Rishki passes, which further increased its importance. The length of the fortress walls is 530 m. Its protective ditches and ramparts can still be seen today. These are some of the biggest artificial defense facilities constructed on the Balkan Peninsula. Markeli was practically unconquerable and managed to get supplies during sieges via a special river facility. Archaeologists discovered during research in the region a basilica dating back to the 6th century, an Old Bulgarian...

Dobrovanski Gubi Rock Phenomenon

Thu, 01 Jul 2010 15:04:00 +0300

Dobrovanski Gubi (Dobrovan mushrooms) rock phenomenon is situated in the eastern part of Stara Planina Mountain, about 10 km away from the village of Sini Rid. The name of this unusual rock formation is derived from the name of Dobrovan village. Unfortunately, the settlement no longer exists. The three rock formations are mushroom-shaped and positioned in a line, approximately 10 meters away from each other. Out of the three formations, one stands out as the tallest and most beautifully shaped. The ‘mushroom’ is nearly four meters high. Its diameter is four meters, as well. The other two formations are smaller and less symmetrical, yet they possess specific charm that makes them unique. Dobrovanski Gubi rock phenomenon formed as a result of earth layer motion and difference in the strength of the sandy and limestone layers. Weather conditions shaped...

Roiak Village Rock Monastery

Wed, 30 Jun 2010 12:12:00 +0300

The tall cliffs of Roiashko plateau in the region of Dzheneviz Kanara house one little known but quite impressive rock monastery complex. The rock monastery is situated approximately two kilometers away from the village of Roiak. It is hardly accessible. The monk cells are carved at different heights in the rock. According to researchers, the rock monastery initially functioned as a Thracian sanctuary. The sanctuary dates back to the 3rd and 4th centuries. Christians started using the rock sanctuary during the Middle Ages. Some writings were discovered in the hallway leading to the rock church. These writings mention the creation of the monastery and the names of Bulgarian tsars Mihail Asen and Ivan Alexander. The monk cells can be reached via a set of rock stairs. The stairs lead to two arched rock niches, which are connected to each other. According to experts, some...

Beglik Tash

Thu, 17 Jun 2010 17:38:00 +0300

One of the most mysterious and breathtaking sanctuaries in Bulgaria is situated four km away from the town of Primorsko in Ropotamo preserve. Beglik Tash was discovered in 2003 and happens to be one of the oldest Thracian megalith sanctuaries in Bulgaria’s coastal region. It has been existing since the end of the Bronze Age and according to archaeologists, activity continued until the settlement of the first Christians in the area. A forest road leads to the sanctuary but the 15 to 20 minute walk to Beglik Tash is worth it. In the end, you will find yourself on a green meadow, where huge stone pieces have been positioned according to some ancient logics. The sanctuary is a large stone circle. Stone pieces are nearly nine m high and have been partially carved. They have been arranged in incredible forms. The place was holy for Thracians and they brought gifts to the...

St. Teodor Stratilat Monastery

Thu, 17 Jun 2010 16:51:00 +0300

St. Teodor Stratilat Monastery is situated 1.5 km away from the village of Balsha. The Sofia region village is close to the capital and suitable for weekend walks away from Sofia. An unpaved road leads to the monastery, diverting north from the Dobroslavtsi – Balsha road. The monastery itself is visible from a distance. According to some legends, St. Teodor Stratilat dates back to the 12th century, while historians believe it was created in the 14th century or later. Remains of old walls have been discovered in the region but excavation works have not taken place yet. In the end of the 19th century, only ruins from the monastery church remained. Walls were set up and nuns settled there. The monastery was once again abandoned in the middle of the 20th century. Renovation took place again in the 70s. The monastery saw its peak in modern times. Full renovation...

Aladzha Monastery

Wed, 02 Jun 2010 16:49:00 +0300

A rocky region situated 16 km away from the coastal city of Varna and near to Golden Sands resort preserves a sanctuary, the name of which means colorful in Turkish. Aladzha Monastery is one of the best-preserved rock sanctuaries in Bulgaria. The monastery has its long history. Numerous stories have been told about the creation and development of the monastery. According to the writings of some early Christian authors, Christianity spread to the region back in the 1st century. Historians claim that the monk cells were carved into the rocks during the 4th century. Evidence is insufficient to prove the claims that the monastery existed during that period. Probably before turning into monk cells, the caves in the rocks served as shelter for locals during barbarian assaults. It is certain that work on the monastery was finalized in the 12th century. Aladzha Monastery got...

Mishkova Niva Complex

Wed, 02 Jun 2010 14:00:00 +0300

An ancient complex was discovered during research from 1981 to 1983 in the region of Mishkova Niva, three km southwest of the town of Malko Turnovo, almost at the border between Bulgaria and Turkey. The complex resembles the one is Propada region but is bigger and much more impressive. The sanctuary and a fortress made up a complex, together with mines, a necropolis and several fortifications. A dolmen was constructed in Mishkova Niva in the end of the Bronze Age. A mound necropolis formed there in the years to come. The dolmen was destroyed but a cult facility was set up. It was used as a sanctuary to a mythical or an existent ruler, priest or a hero. It might have been used as well as a mausoleum of a Thracian ruler. It exhibits symbols of a solar cult, namely a shield and an arrow over which two human palms have been carved. The tomb is situated near a Roman villa rustika...

New St. Petka Church, Plovdiv

Sun, 02 May 2010 16:54:00 +0300

The village of Epibata on the Sea of Marmara was the home place of St. Petka, who lived there in the 11th century. The saint wanted to dedicate herself to ascetic life. Upon the death of her parents, Petka donated all of their wealth. According to beliefs, her relics have healing power. The St. Petka cult spread to Bulgaria and Plovdiv residents decided to make the saint protector of their city. In the first days after the liberation from Ottoman rule, Plovdiv residents agreed to construct a church. The sanctuary has impressive size and architecture. It was constructed in three years. St. Petka’s construction is one of the few cases when all of the city elite joined a single project. Architect Dimitur Naumov worked on the plan. Outer decorations are simple. The bell tower is the most impressive part of the church. Petur Koushlev from Shiroka Luka worked on the...

Sevlievo's Hotalich Fortress

Sun, 02 May 2010 14:44:00 +0300

The medieval fortress and settlement of Hotalich are situated four km northwest of Sevlievo. The location was selected because of its strategic importance. Hotalich appeared in the gorge of Rositsa River in the 5th century. Byzantines were responsible for fortress construction. In the 10th century, Bulgarians decided to use the place for the construction of a defense facility. It protected the country from barbaric assaults from the north. The fortress was the biggest fortification after facilities in Pliska, Preslav and Turnovo. Until the 70s of the 20th century, nobody knew that the fortress was beneath the ground, several km away from Sevlievo. Workers found it accidentally in 1979. Archaeologists discovered a church and an older temple that dates back to the 5th and 6th centuries. Excavation works began in 1981. Archaeologists discovered 86 stone constructions beneath...

Ritlite Rock Phenomenon

Sat, 10 Apr 2010 17:01:00 +0300

An unusual rock phenomenon named Ritlite can be seen in the Iskur gorge, near the village of Liuti Brod. They are situated on the two banks of a river. The four formations on the left bank are much more noticeable and resemble stone walls. The length of each varies from 200 to 400 m and the thickness changes from 2.6 to seven m. The walls rise 80 m above Iskur River and the space between them hosts dense forests. According to scientists, the formations appeared 120 million years ago, when the area was covered by sea. Romans used the walls as natural defense facilities. Parts of them were used in the construction of the medieval Koritengrad fortress. Archaeologists discovered the remains of nine churches in the area. Rashov Dol historic region is situated nearby. In the spring of 1876, 10 of Hristo Botev’s revolutionaries died there. An ossuary was placed in...

Sopot Monastery St. Spas

Sat, 10 Apr 2010 13:08:00 +0300

A nice walk starting in the central part of Sopot will take you to St. Spas Monastery. You need to head to the first station of the Sopot lift. Ask locals for directions if you get confused which path to follow. The monastery is situated a kilometer north of Sopot, five km away from Karlovo and 19 km away from Kalofer. According to historians, St. Spas Monastery was founded in the 13th century and benefited from royal preferences. St. Spas was involved in cultural and revolutionary activities. On December 7 1858, the monastery became the site where Bulgarian revolutionary Vasil Levski took holy orders. Copies of Istoria Slavianobulgarska (the first summarized Bulgarian history book) were made there. Revolutionary Todor Kableshkov created a secret Sopot committee in St. Spas. A school functioned alongside the monastery and a satirical newspaper was printed there. As many...

Sashova Mound

Sat, 10 Apr 2010 12:00:00 +0300

Sashova mound was found in 1996 near the town of Shipka. It dates back to the 3rd or 4th century BC. Processed stone blocks were used in the construction. The tomb has a long hallway and two rectangular chambers. One of them features a semi-cylindrical vault. Human remains in full armor were found on a stone bed. Pottery, some of which Greek, was placed on the floor next to the bed. Two big amphora and some decorations are still well preserved. A horse skeleton was found next to the stone bed. A shelter was set up to protect the tomb from destruction. Visitors can visit the mound but all artifacts found there have been moved to the National Museum of History in Sofia.

Byzantine Fortress near Mezek

Sat, 10 Apr 2010 10:10:00 +0300

The ruins of one of the best preserved medieval fortresses in Bulgaria can be seen west of the village of Mezek. Mezek fortress is the best preserved fortification in the Rhodope region. It is situated near the village of Mezek, six km away from the town of Svilengrad. The border between Bulgaria and Greece is only one km away. Fortress walls surround an area having the shape of an irregular tetragon of size of 110 by 60 m. It has tetragonal shape and has been made of stone. Two brick belts pass through the stone wall. Nine towers provide further security, five of them being positioned on the southern fortress wall. Construction took place in the end of the 11th or the beginning of the 12th centuries. It probably took place under the reign of Alexei I Komnin. The fortification was used until Ottomans conquered the region. The fortress acted as a castle and probably housed...

Dryanovski Monastery

Tue, 30 Mar 2010 13:22:00 +0300

St. Archangel Mihail monastery is also known as Dryanovski. It had a long and often sad history. The monastery is situated on the road from Dryanovo to Gabrovo within the limestone gorge of Dryanovska River. The brothers Assen and Petur probably founded the monastery during the Second Bulgarian Kingdom. The cloister was an important cultural and Christian center during the dark ages of the Ottoman period. It was devastated and rebuilt at different locations several times to ensure protection. The present day looks of the monastery were shaped in the 17th and the 19th centuries. During the struggle for national liberation in the 19th century Dryanovski Monastery was one of the most important spots in Bulgaria giving shelter to famous Bulgarian revolutionaries Vassil Levski and Georgi Izmirliev. After the liberation, a monument and a museum were built in the complex as well as a...

Letnitsa Treasure

Tue, 30 Mar 2010 11:49:00 +0300

In 1963, workers from a local farm in the little north town of Letnitsa started the construction of a new cattle-shed. While digging they came upon a container full of small artifacts. They split the treasures and kept in secret the discovery. A local doctor witnessed the unearthing and informed the history museum of the nearby town of Lovech. The treasure was put back together and placed in the museum. The Letnitsa treasure is a small one but its historical significance is enormous. It consists of a bronze container full of little silver artifacts, some of which featuring gold decorations. Parts of a horse-trapping were found near the container. One of the most amazing items found is several little plates decorated with historic scenes. The protagonist rides a horse or hunts, fights bears and wolves, throws his spear in the company of his servant. These images show much about...

Choudnite Mostove Phenomenon

Wed, 24 Mar 2010 15:35:00 +0200

One of the most beautiful creations of nature in Bulgaria is situated in the Rhodope region. Choudnite Mostove rock phenomenon was previously known as Erkiupia, which means rock bridge in Turkish. The landmark is situated 70 km away from Plovdiv and as many kilometers away from Smolyan. In 1961, Choudnite Mostove was named a nature landmark. Since ancient times, the natural bridges were used as a pedestrian path connecting the villages of Orehovo and Zaburdo. A legend describes the creation of the bridges. Many years ago, a dragon started attacking the herds of Zaburdo shepherds. Finally, they gathered together to find a way to deal with the problem. A donkey was loaded with tinder and set free. The dragon swallowed the donkey and the tinder started burning inside it. The furious dragon found a small hole and hid there. Years ago, after its body decayed, the bridges were...

Borovo Treasure

Wed, 24 Mar 2010 11:27:00 +0200

An ancient Thracian treasure was found in 1974 near the little town of Borovo in Rousse district. It dates back to the 4th century BC. Archeologists believe it belonged to king Kotis, the ruler of the Thracian tribe of Odrisi. Some of the containers from the treasure carry the name of the king. The treasure is made of five silver containers with golden decorations, three rhytons with their bottoms shaped as the heads of a bull, a horse and a sphinx; a jug-rhyton decorated with a divinity feast scene /some of the decoration elements are made of gold/; a big silver bowl with gold on the rim and around the handles. All artifacts were made in the town of Beos, southeastern Thrace on the coast of Sea of Marmora.. Now the treasure is kept in the history Rousse museum.

Kremikovtsi Monastery St. Georgi

Wed, 24 Mar 2010 10:01:00 +0200

The dome of Kremikovtsi Monastery’s church can be seen from a distance. St. George Monastery is situated three km south of Sofia’s district of Kremikovtsi, on the southern slope of Stara Planina Mountain. To reach the monastery, you need to follow the district’s main street. It turns into a smaller road and will lead you directly to the monastery’s parking lot. It has the capacity to accommodate buses and a big number of cars. The monastery was founded during the Second Bulgarian Kingdom, probably under the reign of tsar Ivan Alexander. It quickly became one of the important religious centers in Sofia region. Ottomans conquered Bulgarian territories shortly after and according to some historic writings, the monastery was destroyed. It was renovated in 1493, a century later. According to another hypothesis, a local ruler lost his...

Varosha, Blagoevgrad's Old District

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 16:06:00 +0200

Narrow cobblestone streets, unique architecture, various craft shops and historic monuments characterize Blagoevgrad’s Varosha district. Varosha has preserved its revival-period spirit in the small traditional houses. The district could be seen as a walk from one art to another. Varosha appeared in the 17th century in the foot of Delvinski hill. In the 17th and 18th centuries Varosha resembled a Turkish district and was the only residential part that featured Christian population. No more than 200 families lived there. During that period, three bridges connected the district to other parts of town, all situated across Bistritsa River. During the revival period. Varosha turned into home for the best teachers and culture activists in the region. They openly advocated uprisings and independence struggles. When it comes to architecture, Varosha resembles many other old...

Chiprovtsi Monastery

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 10:23:00 +0200

Chiprovtsi Monastery St. Ivan Rilski is situated 30 km away from the town of Montana and five km away from Chiprovtsi. The monastery was constructed in the 10th century and for decades acted as a spiritual and cultural center. Since its creation, Chiprovtsi Monastery has been destroyed and burned down six times. Believers put significant effort and managed to restore the monastery each time. St. Ivan Rilski suffered heaviest destruction after the Chiprovtsi uprising in 1688. The sanctuary was robbed and its rich library was burned down. The monastery complex consists of a church, a residential building, a three-storey tower, a chapel and a bell tower. The tower acts as an ossuary where the remains of Bulgarians killed in the Chiprovtsi uprising are still protected. St. Ivan Rilski church is situated in the center of the monastery complex. Make sure to explore carefully...

Ivanovski Rock Monastery

Thu, 04 Mar 2010 15:53:00 +0200

Ivanovski rock monastery is one of the Bulgarian landmarks included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. It is located 12 km south of the town of Rousse and four km away from the village of Ivanovo. The road leading to it is in good condition and signs will direct you to the monastery. At a height of 32 m, in the rocks above the ground, monks from the 13th century found a place suitable for their purposes. All churches, chapels and living premises have been carved in the rocks. Only few have been preserved till present day. Yet, the monastery used to be an intricate network of nearly 40 churches and 300 living premises. The Dobroudzha region has several other monasteries carved inside rocks. Ivanovski monastery differentiates itself through the unbelievable frescoes. Only few remained intact because time and treasure hunters managed to damage the rest. Five of the...

Cherven Fortress

Thu, 04 Mar 2010 12:02:00 +0200

The Medieval fortress of Cherven is situated 30 km south of the town of Rousse. Well preserved remains tell the long story of the town-fortress. Byzantine emperor Justinian constructed Cherven in the 6th century. Soon after Bulgarians gained control over the region and the fortification. A settlement appeared close to the stronghold during the coming centuries. It was divided into two parts, a citadel and an outer town. The citadel was situated on the most unapproachable place of the hill. During the Second Bulgarian Kingdom, the town grew and many remains found in the area confirm the fact. The town was an important place and a bishop’s residence. The fortress functioned as the main northern defense facility of the capital of Turnovo. The stronghold had big walls for protection. A water provision system enabled it to get water from a nearby spring whenever the...

Mezek Tomb

Thu, 04 Mar 2010 11:52:00 +0200

The village of Mezek was once upon a time positioned next to the road from Tsargrad to Sofia and was burned down several times. Its residents later on settled in the eastern Rhodope region. Mezek literally means frontier. Today, the village has 355 residents. Mezek tomb is situated 10 km away from Svilengrad. It is considered to be the biggest and one of the most interesting and impressive beehive Thracian tombs. The tomb dates back to the 4th century BC and has been totally preserved in its original looks. Unusual architecture distinguishes it from other tombs, since it consists of a circular and two rectangular chambers. The overall tomb length is 32 m of which 20.65 m form a hallway, and the others are distributed in the chambers. Stone blocks having length of two m, connected with metal braces were used in the construction. Some unique artifacts were discovered, among...

Izvorovo Golden Treasure

Fri, 19 Feb 2010 14:53:00 +0200

During their work near the village of Izvorovo in the summer of 2008, archaeologists discovered a golden treasure dating back to the Bronze Age. Izvorovo is situated in the southern Sakar region and scientists were working on a mound of diameter 31 m and height of 2.9 m. One of the discovered artifacts is an impressive golden necklace made of 320 spherical and elongated beads. Its length is 1.5 meters. Other artifacts include spherical objects having solar decorations, golden and silver plates, a silver ring and a bronze knife. A similar necklace has been discovered only on Crete but was made of 24 beads. Archaeologist Borislav Borislavov, leader of the team, said that the grave where the artifacts were found probably belonged to a noble person or a priest. The skillfulness used in artifact creation resulted from the fact that a major trade route connecting Central Europe to...

Stone Wedding Rock Phenomenon

Thu, 18 Feb 2010 15:48:00 +0200

The name of this stone phenomenon shows exactly what the rocks resemble. Kamenna Svatba (stone wedding) is situated near the village of Zimzelen, several kilometers away from Kurdzhali. Similar to Skalni Gubi phenomenon near the village of Beli Plast, nature is responsible for shaping the Zimzelen stones. Underwater volcanic activity created the rocks and weather conditions gave them form after the water withdrew. The availability of various minerals in the rock composition gives the figures unusual shades. Kamenna Svatba received its name because of a group of rocks that resemble several people. Two legends describe their appearance. According to the first one, God turned the humans into stones since the father-in-law desired the bride. The second legend focuses on a folk ritual according to which no one is to see the face of the bride during the wedding. Yet, strong wind...

Vrachesh Monastery St. Forty Martyrs

Mon, 15 Feb 2010 12:59:00 +0200

One of the most beautiful monasteries in the west part of Stara Planina Mountain is Vrachesh Monastery St. Forty Martyrs. It is situated on the bank of Cheshkovitsa River, five km away from the village of Vrachesh and 10 km away from Botevgrad. Vrachesh Monastery was constructed during the Second Bulgarian Kingdom to honor the victory of tsar Ivan Asen II near Klokotnitsa. The monastery was turned into a convent in 1937 and has been functioning as such ever since. Monks from the Vrachesh Monastery worked actively on the preservation of Bulgaria’s cultural heritage. Once the monastery was founded, monks started copying religious books, some of which are preserved today in St. St. Cyril and Methodius library in Sofia. The monastery was destroyed and renovated several times. In the 14th century it was partially burned during an Ottoman assault. A second assault during...

Arbanasi

Mon, 15 Feb 2010 11:01:00 +0200

Arbanasi is located several kilometers away from the town of Veliko Turnovo. The village is situated on a plateau, which gives astounding view of Veliko Turnovo and the historic sites nearby. A visitor can enjoy tons of activities in Arbanasi, varying from peaceful and lazy rest to exploring the historic attraction and the Bulgarian traditions. A number of churches and impressive monasteries are also located in the region. The village combines Bulgarian traditions with luxury and modern tourism attractions. Among the hotel complexes and large restaurants, you can find tiny taverns serving typical Bulgarian cuisine. Arbanasi was found in the 15th-16th centuries. Bulgarians from other parts of the country resettled there. Locals developed a number of crafts and goldsmiths from the region traded their works in the Ottoman Empire and other parts of Europe. Local craftsmen...

Sedemte Prestola Monastery

Wed, 10 Feb 2010 16:56:00 +0200

Gabrovitsa River flows through a picturesque meadow in the slopes of the middle part of Stara Planina Mountain. A wonderful spot for rest and for trying to get in touch with the spiritual is situated there. Sedemte Prestola (the seven altars) monastery is located 86 km away from Sofia and 50 km away from the town of Vratsa. The monastery’s official name is Sveta Bogoroditsa but few people know it like that. Historians believe that the monastery appeared during the Second Bulgarian Kingdom. According to the legend, seven boyars or brothers settled there and founded the seven villages of Osenovlag, Ogoya, Ogradishte, Boukovets, Leskovdol, Zhelen and Lakatnik. Architecture of the sanctuary’s church is unique on a global scale. Interior walls separate it into seven chambers acting as separate chapels. Each one has its own altar, giving the name of the...

Belogradchik Fortress

Wed, 10 Feb 2010 16:41:00 +0200

The Belogradchik fortress is located in the western Stara Planina Mountain region, surrounded by the astounding Belogradchik rocks. Romans built it as a way to protect their roads. Belogradchik was part of a big defense system along with other facilities in the region. The defenders communicated via various signals in cases of danger. Natural rocks were used to shape two of the four fortress walls. Belogradchik was an important defense point after the formation of the Bulgarian Kingdom. It kept its original medieval appearance until the end of the 18th century. In the late 18th and the 19th century, Ottomans changed its plan and added constructions in order to strengthen the facility in connection with the Austrian invasions and the dangerous local Bulgarian independence movement. Until the end of the 19th century, the fortress was well preserved and maintained. Then it was...

St. Peter and Pavel Church and the Sopot Convent

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 12:55:00 +0200

Sopot Convent Vuvedenie Bogorodichno is situated in the central part of the mountain town. The convent was created in the 17th century. Only Vuvedenie Bogorodichno church has been preserved from the original complex. It was the sole part of the convent that managed to survive a fire in 1877. The church is half-dug into the ground. It is one of two unique churches featuring the style. The second one is situated in the village of Dobursko. Pay close attention to the beautiful wall paintings. The oldest grape vine in Southeastern Europe can be seen in the monastery yard. Sopot’s convent was mentioned numerous times in the novels of famous Bulgarian writer Ivan Vazov. Today it is still functional. The convent offers no food and accommodation but its location in the central part of Sopot makes it especially suitable for visits. St. St. Peter and Pavel church is the...

Tourism Sites in Koprivshtitsa

Sun, 24 Jan 2010 10:24:00 +0200

To experience fully the Bulgarian revival period feel, visit the town of Koprivshtitsa. The town hides in the heart of Sredna Gora Mountain, in the valley of Topolchitsa River. Lately, it has been developing as a tourism attraction. Koprivshtitsa is famous for its revival period architecture and the preserved cultural heritage. It is known as a town of numerous museums and preserved and renovated traditional houses. Some of the interesting museums that you can explore in Koprivshtitsa include Oslekova house, Dimcho Debelianov’s memorial house, Todor Kableshkov’s memorial house, the museum dedicated to revolutionary Georgi Benkovski and Liutova house. Koprivshtitsa has its tourism information center, where you can learn more about the landmarks and accommodation opportunities in the town. To learn more about Koprivshtitsa, click here.

Chourilovski Monastery St. Georgi

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 15:35:00 +0200

Tourist guides have little to say about Chourilovski Monastery St. Georgi. You can only learn that the sanctuary is situated 200 km away from Sofia, 25 km away from Petrich and 2.5 km away from the village of Chourilovo. Once you leave Petrich, on your way look for a sign towards the village of Gega. You might meet border police since the monastery is situated close to the border between Bulgaria and Macedonia. Before reaching Gega, you will pass through Portata (the gate). This is a natural phenomenon formed of rocks on the two sides of the road. In Gega, look for the unpaved road that will take you to the monastery. Approaching the sanctuary, you will notice a big stone wall. In the yard of the monastery you will be able to hear only the songs of the birds and the lack of any human presence. The highest part of the hill hosts the monastery’s bell tower...

Shipka National Park-Museum

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 10:57:00 +0200

Shipka national park is an open-air museum. Shipka peak has been turned into a complex, only 28 km away from the town of Kazanluk and 22 km away from Gabrovo. The defense lines and dugouts of passage defenders have been recreated there. The park has 26 monuments. The Liberty Monument is the biggest among them. All Bulgarians are familiar with that shape. Its silhouette is seen from a big distance. The monument was presented in August 1934. Its height is 31.5 meters and 890 stairs lead to the monument. Donations were used for its creation. The silhouette resembles a medieval Bulgarian tower. A big bronze lion protects the monument’s entrance. The ground floor has been turned into an ossuary where the remains of 317 Bulgarian revolutionaries rest. The other seven floors of the museum display personal belongings of soldiers, medals, photos, weapons and documents...

Slivovdolsko Padalo Waterfall

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 10:57:00 +0200

Slivovdlosko Padalo is one of the biggest cascades in Bulgaria. It is located in the western part of Rhodope Mountains, inside Chervenata Stena preserve. The waterfall has been named after Slivovdolska River. Iugovo is the settlement situated closest to the natural phenomenon. A well-marked path leads to the waterfall. It begins at the Plovdiv-Smolyan road, right after the third tunnel. The diversion to the waterfall is situated four km away from Bachkovo. The walk last approximately one hour. The path will wind close to the river. It gives you the chance to observe the manner in which the water has carved the limestone, forming small lakes and rapids. Its location inside the preserve has kept nature in the region nearly virginal. Only a few wooden constructions at the start of the route remind of human activity. You will see various protected and very rare plants among...

Rozhen Monastery

Sat, 09 Jan 2010 13:45:00 +0200

Rozhen monastery is the biggest sanctuary in the Pirin region and the second biggest in the country after the Rila monastery. It is one of the few middle age monasteries that have been preserved till present days. The monastery is situated in the lower part of Pirin Mountain, one km southwest of the village of Rozhen and 2.5 km away from the town of Melnik. According to historic accounts, the monastery was created in 890. St. Rozhdestvo Bogoridchno church later on gave its name to the village of Rozhen. During the reign of tsar Kaloyan, the monastery was expanded. In the 17th century it burned down and in the 18th century was renovated using funds provided by the Bulgarians in the region. Reconstruction began in 1715 and ended in 1732. Most of the wall paintings were created during that time. Paintings from 1597, 1611, 1715 and 1732 were preserved as well. Rozhen...

Provurtenika Rock Phenomenon

Fri, 08 Jan 2010 10:48:00 +0200

A tall rock near the Bulgarian village of Karloukovo is one of the most interesting natural phenomena in the region. It is situated on the left bank of Iskur River, a kilometer away from the village and a little more than 110 km away from the capital of Sofia. The rock looks as if someone has drilled a perfect circular hole in it. Some say that the rock resembles a clock tower that is missing its clock. Several smaller rock towers surround the phenomenon. During the summer and winter solstices, sun rays pass through the circular hole. One theory claims that the rock was used as an ancient observatory. Visitors can reach Provurtenika via several eco paths. A hut by the same name reveals panoramic view of the region and the rock phenomenon. You can reach Provurtenika both from the village of Karloukovo and the village of Reselets. Provurtenika hut offers accommodation but...

Sveshtari Tomb

Wed, 06 Jan 2010 13:56:00 +0200

In 1982, archaeologists discovered near the town of Razgrad a tomb that belonged to a Thracian ruler. The tomb is situated 43 km northeast of the town of Razgrad and only three km southwest of the village of Sveshtari. It is supposedly the tomb of Droumihed, the king of the Thracian tribe Geti. The tomb was built in the 4th to 3rd century BC. It was robbed in ancient times. Nevertheless, the status and wealth of the person buried there were estimated. Several chambers, a hallway, a rectangular anteroom, a side chamber and a funeral chamber make up the complex. The mortal remains were placed in the funeral chamber. Unfinished wall decorations make researchers believe the king died before his tomb was completed. Several female statues with raised hands support the chamber. Their faces and hair still reveal color decorations. A scene painted on the ceiling depicts the...

Dragalevtsi Monastery

Sun, 03 Jan 2010 13:20:00 +0200

St. Bogoroditsa of Vitosha monastery is located very close to Sofia. It is situated only three km south of Dragalevtsi residential district, among the hills of Vitosha Mountain. A car ride to the monastery from the center of the city will take you only half an hour but be cautious since signs and road marks are missing. The mountain path from Dragalevtsi to the monastery will lead you to the final destination within half an hour of walking. It is quite easy to get to the cloister and you will be surprised by the peace and calmness you will find there. The monastery was founded in 1345 and survived the Ottoman invasion. The church was renovated once and during the 17th century, some more decorations were added. During the Ottoman period, the cloister was an important spiritual and cultural center with its monastery school. One of the abbots – Genadii, was a close...

Silistra Tomb

Sun, 20 Dec 2009 14:14:00 +0200

The most popular ancient monument in the Silistra region is the Silistra tomb from the end of the 4th century AD. It is considered one of the most beautiful and valuable monuments in Bulgaria. One rectangular chamber has decorated walls. The images represent humans, animals and geometric figures. The picture of a family couple and their servants is also part of the drawing. These decorations are almost unaffected by time. According to researchers, the tomb preserves the remains of a noble Roman pagan. The beautiful decorations and an honorary diploma from the Emperor signify his status.

Troyan Monastery

Thu, 10 Dec 2009 13:56:00 +0200

The majestic Stara Planina Mountain houses the old Troyan monastery. Yet, this beautiful spot has lost some of its charm due to the commercial goals of merchants. They managed to turn the monastery into a tourism attraction. Still, the monastery kept some of its charm and authenticity. Troyan monastery is situated 10 km away from the town of Troyan. A good road leads to it and public transportation from Troyan is available. Ouspenie Bogorodichno monastery has its miracle-making icon. Sveta Bogoroditsa Troerouchitsa is kept in the monastery since the 13th century. It was previously kept in Serbia. According to historians, the monastery was constructed during the Second Bulgarian Kingdom. It expanded several times. In 1866, the monastery got its unique tower. In the past, the tower had decorations and parts of the drawings have been preserved on the second floor. Though...

Rogozen Treasure

Thu, 10 Dec 2009 12:04:00 +0200

A precious treasure was unearthed in 1985 in a vegetable garden in the village of Rogozen, Vratsa region. Additional research in the area enabled archaeologists to discover more artifacts. The treasure now consists of 165 containers, all made of silver, 131 of them with golden decorations. This is the biggest treasure ever found in Bulgaria. Inscriptions on some of the items show they belonged to a Thracian king. Historians believe they have found one almost complete royal set that was hidden in the ground. Decorations on the containers represent scenes from the Greek and Thracian mythology. The total weight of the set is over 19 kg. Some inscriptions signify the items were part of a gift. The treasure dates back to the 5th and 4th centuries BC and can be seen in Sofia’s National Museum of History.

Arapovski Мonastery

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 13:09:00 +0200

Arapovski Monastery St. Nedelia is situated eight km away from the Rhodope Mountain town of Asenovgrad. It is easy to find. From Asenovgrad, you need to head to Purvomai. Along the way, you will see directions to Arapovski Monastery. The sanctuary is one of the few in Bulgaria that was constructed in a valley rather than in the mountain. It is also the only Christian sanctuary in the country constructed during the Ottoman rule. St. Nedelia Monastery was constructed in the 19th century close to the village of Arapovo (today known as Zlatovruh). One of the legends told about it explain how the wife of the local Ottoman ruler was cured. The wife of Arap Bai had to drink water from the healing spring situated in the region. The thankful ruler allowed the construction of a Christian monastery there. During Bulgarian liberation struggles, the monastery acted as shelter of Bulgarian...

Kazanluk Tomb

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 11:32:00 +0200

Kazanluk Tomb is the first Bulgarian site included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. It was discovered accidentally in 1944. Historians believe it dates back то the 4th or 3rd century BC. The original tomb is now sealed and an exact replica was built a few meters away from its location. Tourists are allowed to enter the replica only. Three rooms make up the tomb. Its antechamber was built of stone and clay. The two other premises include a narrow brick hallway and a brick funeral chamber featuring a bell-like dome. Wall decorations in the hallway and the funeral chamber are impressive with their ability to give information about Thracians and their art techniques. Four shades of mineral paints were used for creating these decorations – white, yellow, red and black. The decorated friezes picture flowers and battle scenes. The remains of a woman and a man were found...

Belogradchik Rocks

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 16:37:00 +0200

Belogradchik Rocks is probably the best known rock phenomenon in Bulgaria. The amazing natural formations can be observed near the town of Belogradchik. Cliffs are situated in an area of 30 km and have been divided into three groups. The central one is considered to be most interesting for observation. Throughout time, weather conditions have shaped the rocks. Their red color comes from the availability of iron. Some cliffs are nearly 200 m high. People have named some of the rocks based on their shape. Tourists can explore Horseman, Madonna, School Girl, Adam and Eve and Cuckoo among many others. A legend has been told about many of these shapes. One of the legends describes the love of a nun and a Roman. A child was born to the nun and monks decided to punish her for the sin. The Roman tried to save his love and their child. Nature intervened and a thunder turned all into...

Krustova Gora

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 17:31:00 +0200

Few Christian sites in Bulgaria attract as many visitors as Krustova Gora (Holy Cross Forest) does. The region gained significant popularity over the past 10 years. Krustova Gora is situated in the very heart of the Rhodope Mountains. Dense pine forests surround the area. Its history began in the 17th century, when a small monastery complex was constructed there. Today the complex includes Pokrov na Sveta Bogoroditsa and Sveta Troitsa churches, as well as 15 chapels. The region is located 60 km away from Plovdiv and six km away from the village of Borovo. The winding road will take you to an altitude of 1545 m, where the holy place is located. A legend describes the creation of the monastery complex. In 1933, a man named Iordan Driankov arrived in Borovo. According to locals, he had visions. One of the visions involved a holy place, where a monastery used to exist. The...

Choudnite Skali

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 16:40:00 +0200

A beautiful rock phenomenon is located on the border between Varna and Bourgas regions. The phenomenon is called Choudnite Skali (the wonder cliffs). Choudnite Skali never managed to gain the popularity of Belogradchik Rocks or of the Rhodope Choudnite Mostove. Yet, the rock formation is just as unique and beautiful and deserves some special attention. The landmark is located on the bank of Tsonevo dam, two km away from Asparouhovo and 90 km away from Varna. Choudnite Skali became a nature landmark in 1949. The phenomenon is a group of about 10 tall, white cliffs. Each one has unique shape, carved by the skillful hand of nature. Most of the cliffs resemble towers, pyramids and cones rising high above the dam water. Scientists believe that water carved the limestone into these strange, inaccessible white castles. Three tunnels and a road have been carved through the...

Khan Omourtag's Temple

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 15:30:00 +0200

The fortified temple Bulgarian khan Omourtag was built in 822. Its construction is connected to the expansion that the khan undertook. Omourtag’s temple is an example of the Pliska and Preslav architecture school. It is situated close to Han Kroum village, 10 km away from the town of Shoumen and about 100 km away from Varna. Numerous archaeological findings were made in the region, mainly connected to the Goth tribes. Many of the artifacts discovered there were placed in Goth graves and the entire region tells their story. Years ago, archaeologists discovered in the vicinities of Omourtag’s temple two graves. These contained jewelry and a box that were untouched by treasure hunters. Traditional clothing accessories were discovered, as well. One of the most interesting findings is a set of cosmetic artifacts. These were used by women and worn on their...

Tsonevo Dam

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 17:09:00 +0200

Tsonevo dam is situated along the river valley of Louda Kamchia and is the fourth biggest dam in Bulgaria. The dam is an excellent fishing destination. It is attractive both to fishermen from Eastern Bulgaria and from other parts of the country. The length of Tsonevo dam is 28 km and its wall is the highest on the Balkans with its 39 m. Fishermen enjoy mostly the diversity of fish species. The catch includes at least seven types of fish. One of the best fishing spots is the region right next to Choudnite Skali rock phenomenon where the water depth is significant. The beautiful nature of the region turns Tsonevo dam into a favorite vacation spot. You can try camping or having a picnic next to the water. If you decide to spend some more time in the area, you can spend the night in a bungalow or a house near Tsonevo dam. Guest houses function in the nearby villages of Dobromir,...

Lovech Fortress

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 13:17:00 +0200

An important Roman station on a crossroad on the right side of Osum River hosted Lovech fortress. It is situated on the Hissarya hill. The fortress extends on the upper two terraces of the hill. Hill rocks were integrated in the construction to make the fortress difficult to conquer. This also made undermining of the foundations during a siege impossible. Lovech fortress is the one that resisted the siege of the Byzantine emperor Isaak II Angelos who tried to suppress a Bulgarian revolt. After the failure of the Byzantine siege in 1187, the emperor was forced to sign the Lovech peace treaty which marked the beginning of the Second Bulgarian Kingdom. The town was situated under the fortress on the lowest terrace of the hill. The residence buildings and the workshops were in the town. The remains of seven churches were discovered in the fortress ruins. The earliest church...

Rila Monastery

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 10:57:00 +0200

Rila monastery is considered one of Bulgaria’s symbols for a reason. Its magic comes from the scale and architecture, as well as the spiritual feel that the place projects. The white monastery walls, hidden between the old Rila pines make the place one of a kind. The monastery was constructed in the 10th century and turned into a spiritual center right from the start. Today, it is one of the biggest and richest monasteries in the country. Reaching Rila monastery from Sofia is easy. Since the monastery is located near the town of Blagoevgrad, you could explore both in the same day. Accommodation there is possible if you decide to spend more time exploring the region. The monastery has a museum, a tower, its own kitchen and a huge yard. Many revolutionaries hid there in the past. The relics of St. Ivan Rilski were placed in the monastery. The saint decided to spend...

St. 40 Martyrs Church

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 18:39:00 +0200

One of the most famous medieval churches that still preserves Bulgarian history is located in the old capital of Veliko Turnovo. St. 40 Martyrs church is located in the foot of Tsarevets hill, on the bank of Iantra River. The church was constructed to honor the victory of tsar Ivan Asen II over Theodor Komnin in 1230. The church is an elongated basilica containing six columns. Later on, an outerhouse was constructed by the western church wall. Probably a monastery was constructed around the church in the end of the 12th century. In the beginning of the 13th century, the graveyard of the church was used by the Bulgarian tsars from the Asen dynasty. St. 40 Martyrs served the royal family by the fall of Turnovo under Ottoman rule. It was then turned into a mosque. As paradoxical as it sounds, the conversion of the church into a mosque preserved it until present day. After...

St. Dimitur Church

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 17:17:00 +0200

The medieval church St. Dimitur in Veliko Turnovo is connected to one of the most important moments of Bulgarian history, namely the rebellion of brothers Asen and Petur. In 1185, the church witnessed the announcement of the rebellion against the Byzantine rule. According to a legend, St. Dimitur himself came to Turnovo to help Bulgarians in their freedom struggle. St. Dimitur church is situated in the foot of Tsarevets fortress, on the bank of Iantra River. This is the oldest precisely dated church in Veliko Turnovo. The exterior decorations of this church make it extremely beautiful and are worth paying close attention to. The walls were constructed using stone, bricks and mortar. St. Dimitur witnessed the crowning of Bulgarian tsars and acted as a royal church. By the end of the 12th century, a monastery complex was constructed around the church. Its remains were...

Romanian Mausoleum, Grivitsa

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 13:53:00 +0200

During the Russo-Turkish war of 1877 and 1878, the Pleven region village of Grivitsa acted as the stage of some of the bloodiest battles. The village was a starting point for Ottoman assaults on nearby Pleven. Hundreds of soldiers died in the battles. Grivitsa was the place where the Romanian army suffered biggest losses. You can still see the remains of the major fortifications in the area. During the third assault for Pleven’s liberation, Romanian soldiers supported by two Russian divisions managed to take possession of one of the strongholds of the Ottoman army. Over 3000 Romanian soldiers died in the battle. From 1928 to 1897 Grivitsa saw the construction of mausoleum honoring the act of Romanian soldiers. Funding for the construction came from Romania and the mausoleum officially opened doors in 1902. Romanian artists worked on the iconostasis and the wall...

Cherepish Monastery

Thu, 22 Oct 2009 13:36:00 +0300

Do you know where the favorite terrace of Bulgarian writer Ivan Vazov is located? It is part of a sanctuary set up right next to Iskur River. The sanctuary is called Cherepish Monastery Ouspenie Bogorodichno. The monastery is located in the Iskur gorge, 95 km away from Sofia and 11 km away from Mezdra. Cherepish Monastery was founded during the Second Bulgarian Kingdom under the reign of tsar Ivan Shishman. During the Ottoman reign, the monastery was destroyed and rebuilt several times. Bulgaria’s revival period saw the monastery’s transformation into cultural and spiritual center. While Bulgaria’s socialism reign lasted, Cherepish Monastery housed the Sofia seminary. Magnificent rocks featuring carved in caves surround the monastery. The entire complex seems to be untouched by time. The church has preserved its 1612 looks. Make sure to...

Divotino Monastery

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 15:56:00 +0300

Divotino Monastery Holy Trinity (Sveta Troitsa) is situated two km southwest of the Bankia’s Mihailovo district. It was founded in the 11th century. According to a legend, a man and a woman founded the monastery after they discovered a treasure buried in their yard. Until present, the place where the treasure was found carries the name Imaneto (the treasure in Bulgarian). Assaults in 1806 led to the destruction of the monastery. According to a legend, the leader of a gang attacking the region was thunderstruck in the vicinities of the monastery. Divotino Monastery has also been called ‘the royal monastery’ since Bulgarian ruler Ferdinand often visited it during his reign. Only the wooden iconostasis and three icons have been preserved from the original monastery. A miracle-making icon can also be seen. The church and the monastery premises...

Albotinski Rock Monastery

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 15:10:00 +0300

In the region between the Vidin villages of Gradets and Rabovo you will discover a rock monastery carrying the name Albotinski. The monastery was created in naturally formed rock cavities and is situated at a height of 25 m. additional chambers were carved into the rocks in order to shelter the monks. Though it is constructed in the rocks, Albotinski Monastery is easily accessible. A steep mountain path leads to it. Scientists discovered 29 Christian graves in the area. Some of these still bear signs of wall paintings and writings. The findings make archaeologists believe that the monastery existed back in the 14th century. Albotinski Monastery consists of eight premises. Each one of them led to the monastery terrace, which stood 25 m above a river. The monastery church was situated in the deepest chamber. Monks prayed there and masses were held. The monastery has a...

Indipascha

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 10:31:00 +0300

Deep in the heart of mystical Strandzha you will find a hidden treasure. Veiled by the dense forests is a Thracian consecrated ground named Indipascha. Only the initiated ones knew how to find it. Thracian priests made a path through the forest and went there to predict the future and to offer sacrifices to the gods. Centuries passed and the sanctuary was forgotten. The Strandzha forests hid the path to it and nobody knew where the consecrated ground was. According to a legend, the blind buffalo of a peasant rediscovered the sanctuary. A healing spring was flowing there and can be still seen today. You will have difficulties discovering Indipascha on your own. It would be best to ask one of the locals in the nearby village of Gramatikovo to take you there. Two paths can be used to reach Indipascha. One of them starts near Gramatikovo and the second one passes through Malko...

Dokouzak Waterfall

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 10:26:00 +0300

All of us know where Bulgaria’s famous waterfalls are located. Yet, some small pearls of nature remain hidden from the general audience. One such lovely little waterfall is hidden deep in the heart of Strandzha Mountain, about a kilometer away from the village of Stoilovo. Dokouzak waterfall is located down the flow of a river carrying the same name. The river originates from nine springs, which actually give it the name Dokouzak (the word is Turkish and means nine springs). Dokouzak is a small and beautiful waterfall that is bound to captivate you. It forms a small lake. There, you can enjoy the clean and cold water, the peacefulness and beauty of nature. Several shelters, benches and a fireplace have been set up near the waterfall. A camping space is also located nearby. Dokouzak area, or the region surrounded the river, has been named a preserve back in 1991. The...

Borovets Fortress

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 16:06:00 +0300

Borovets fortress is still little known but archaeologists believe that learning more about it will help them get a grasp of new historical facts. The fortress is situated at Goliam Borovets peak, in the folds of Stara Planina Mountain. It is located in the area between the Pravets region villages of Razliv and Praveshka Lakavitsa. To reach the fortress, you need to follow an asphalt road, which then turns into a forest path. The walk lasts 30 minutes. Borovets was used during the Antiquity and Middle Ages. The fortress served an important strategic purpose. Its location enabled visual contact with other major fortifications in the region among which Ourvich, Ostroma and Chertigrad. All of these fortifications were constructed to protect important roads passing through the area. Excavation works are still ongoing. Archaeologists discovered massive defense system, the...

Russian Church St. Nikolai Choudotvorets

Fri, 21 Aug 2009 13:49:00 +0300

One of the most outstanding buildings in Sofia is the church St. Nikolai Choudotvorets (the miracle maker). It is more commonly known as the Russian church. The church is situated on the crossing of Rakovski Street and Tsar Osvoboditel Boulevard. Russian emigrants provided funds for the construction of the church. Work lasted nine years and ended in 1913. M. Preobrazhenski, well-known at the time, worked on the church’s architecture. The style resembles Moscow churches from the 17th century. Russian artists worked on the wall paintings. The same painters created the drawings in Alexander Nevski cathedral and the church of St. Nedelya. St. Nikolai’s iconostasis is one of a kind in Bulgaria. In 1994, the church underwent renovation. Since recently, it offers Sunday classes. Children go there to draw, sing and create small souvenirs sold for charity

Karadzhov Kamuk

Thu, 13 Aug 2009 15:56:00 +0300

The mysticism of the Rhodope Mountain region turns each landmark into a place surrounded by numerous legends. One such place is Karadzhov Kamuk (Karadzhov stone). Karadzhov Kamuk is situated near Asenovgrad in the central Rhodopes. Various similar rock phenomena are located nearby. To reach the rock, you have to follow a path starting in the region of Krustova Gora. The path is unpaved and passes through valleys and forests until it takes you to the foot of the steep rock. The walk lasts an hour and a half. Karadzhov Kamuk is accessible via a staircase positioned in its foot. Yet, the ascending is dangerous and we would advise you to refrain from taking your children for a walk there. Be exceptionally careful while climbing. If you prefer some more extreme experiences and you possess climbing equipment, try conquering the rock from its steep side. The Thracian rock...

Belintash

Wed, 12 Aug 2009 16:08:00 +0300

The secret of the rock phenomenon called Belintash still remains concealed. The ancient Thracian sanctuary is situated in the Rhodope Mountain region, 30 km away from the town of Asenovgrad. To reach the rock, you have to head from Asenovgrad to Kurdzhali. Take the road diversion leading to the village of Cherven and head to Oreshets. Keep straight direction once you reach Mostovo. To reach Belintash you have to turn left in Vratata district. To get more directions it will be best to ask locals for help. Numerous legends have been told about Belintash. Some connect the rock to Noah’s arc. According to the story, the rock sheltered the arc. The rings carved into the stone prove this story. Numerous small pits and grooves were carved on the upper surface of Belintash. Two wells were also created on the plateau. These fill with water year-round. The grooves have...

Gorna Bania Monastery St. St. Cyril and Methodius

Tue, 11 Aug 2009 17:27:00 +0300

Gorna Bania Monastery St. St. Cyril and Methodius is hidden in the folds of Liulin Mountain. The sanctuary is also called Liulin Monastery because of its proximity to the mountain. The complex is easily accessible. It is located only a few km away from the Sofia district of Gorna Bania. You have to head to the district’s villa zone. Once you pass it, turn left. According to historic evidence, the monastery appeared in the 15th century. Its history is connected to the activities of Serbian king Stefan Uros II Milutin. According to a legend, the relics of the ruler were moved to the complex. You can learn more about that story in the monastery church. During the Ottoman rule, the monastery was burned down and renovated several times. Gorna Bania residents decided to construct a church and a residential building. In 1872, the complex is visited by revolutionary Vasil...

Kroushouna Waterfalls

Fri, 31 Jul 2009 15:31:00 +0300

Bulgaria has over 300 waterfalls. One of the most picturesque and impressive cascades in the country is situated near the village of Kroushouna, Letnitsa municipality. The village of Kroushouna is situated in the western part of Stara Planina Mountain, 190 km away from Sofia, 50 km away from Pleven and 30 km away from Lovech. The area is mostly known for its nature landmarks. To reach the waterfalls, you need to turn left at the village center. A small path will take you to the cascades. Kroushouna waterfalls are located in Maarata area. The place is also known for its other landmarks among which caves and numerous small waterfalls. The major cascade springs from Kroushounska cave that has various beautiful formations. The cascade is made of system of small lakes and barriers that separate them from each other. It has been recognized as the highest cascade system in Bulgaria....

St. Cyril and Methodius Cathedral, Veliki Preslav

Mon, 27 Jul 2009 16:16:00 +0300

While taking a walk in the beautiful Veliki Preslav complex, make sure to head towards St. Cyril and Methodius cathedral. The cathedral was constructed to commemorate 1000 years since the death of St. Methodius and the acceptance of Christianity in the Bulgarian state. It was later decided that the sanctuary will commemorate 1000 years since the reign of Bulgarian tsar Simeon. Construction works were finalized in 1926. Om 1927, when 1000 years since the reign of tsar Simeon were marked, the church was officially sanctified. St. Cyril and Methodius church is situated in one of the most peaceful parts of Veliki Preslav complex. An old pine forest hides the church in its heart. A rest spot and the complex’s parking lot are also situated nearby. In 1993, the church was entirely renovated to commemorate 1100 years since the finding of Veliki Preslav.

St. Nikolai Church, Toutrakan

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 16:28:00 +0300

While walking in Toutrakan’s unique fishermen’s district, a one of a kind ethnographic complex, make sure to explore St. Nikolai church. Church construction started in 1827 thank to the financial contributions of Toutrakan residents. According to a legend, the sanctuary was constructed after the sultan gave his secret permission. St. Nikolai church was sanctified on July 14 1865. Like most Bulgarian sanctuaries, the Toutrakan church has long and troublesome history. It was plundered during the first Romanian occupation of 1913. All religious writings in Bulgarian were burned down and priests were chased away. St. Nikolai impresses with its magnificent architecture. The sanctuary was renovated in 2003 as part of Beautiful Bulgaria project. Wood carvings inside the church, the iconostasis and wall paintings show the best of the Triavna school of arts....

Storgozia Fortress

Fri, 10 Jul 2009 14:57:00 +0300

The remains of Storgozia fortress are situated in Kailuka park near the town of Pleven. The place has been inhabited since the Bronze Age. Storgozia was constructed from the 4th to the 6th centuries by Romans. Fortress walls are nearly two m thick and have been covered in stone. A series of premises inside the fortress had residential and administrative purposes. An early Christian basilica was positioned in the eastern part of Storgozia. It turns out to be the second biggest basilica after the royal one in Pliska. The fortification system, as well as the basilica have been preserved and renovated by archaeologists. Taking into account evidence, archaeologists believe that the fortress bragged beautiful interior decorations.

Nicopolis ad Istrum

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 17:31:00 +0300

Remains of the ancient Roman settlement Nicopolis ad Istrum are situated 18 km north of Veliko Turnovo, on the road to Rousse. The settlement was founded in the 2nd century AD by emperor Trajan. Nicopolis ad Istrum means city of the Danube victory. The city was situated on a crossroad. It was near the important roads to present-time Varna and the road connecting present-time Svishtov to Istanbul. As every city in the Roman empire that appeared accidentally, construction features straight streets that cross each other an angles of 90 degrees. Archaeologists found out that the settlement initially lacked fortress walls. These were constructed later on, after a devastating barbarian assault. A gate was situated somewhere close to the walls. The main gate, however, was situated in the west, looking towards the capital of the empire. It was called Romana gate. The town had...

Dolen Village

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 11:10:00 +0300

The village of Dolen hides in the western part of the Rhodope Mountains, near the town of Gotse Delchev. Dolen is located 26 km away from the town and has its intriguing history. The village was created shortly after Bulgaria came under Ottoman reign. Running away from the Ottoman oppression, some families resettled to the region because of the inaccessibility of the mountain. Gradually the village expanded and prospered. Today it is relatively small but during the revival period locals earned from tobacco production and livestock. The village is still hardly accessible. A tiny settlement is the only other populated spot in the region. Its isolation has helped the village preserve some revival-time constructions. More than 70 houses have been preserved and renovated. In the middle of the 20th century, the village was given the status of a historic monument. Make sure you...

Asenova Fortress

Sat, 20 Jun 2009 16:23:00 +0300

Asenova fortress is one of the best known Bulgarian fortifications. It is situated on a vertical rock in the Rhodope Mountains, a few kilometers away from the town of Assenovgrad. The fortress appeared 2500 years ago as a Thracian settlement. Its remains were used several centuries later by the Romans and the Byzantines in the construction of their own fortresses. The stronghold came under Bulgarian control in the 9th century. Chronicles and coins minted during that period prove the fact. Protection of the road between Plovdiv and the Aegean Sea became the main function of the fortress. It also protected visitors to the neighboring Bachkovo monastery. This safety led to the appearance of two settlements, Bachkovo and Petrich. Expansion of the fortress happened in the 13th century during the reign of king Ivan Assen II. Bulgaria and the Latin empire experienced some setbacks...

Kukrina Inn

Fri, 19 Jun 2009 13:11:00 +0300

When you head to Sevlievo from Lovech, you will reach the village of Kukrina. It is one of the hundred national tourist sites. Each Bulgarian connects the village to the death of famous revolutionary Vasil Levski. He was captured in the Kukrina inn on December 27 1872. At the time, the inn was located in the outskirts of the village but today it is in the very center. The old building was turned into an inn by Hristo Tsonev. It was to serve as a revolutionary meeting place and to shelter traveling Bulgarian revolutionaries. Upon Levski’s capture, the inn was completely forgotten. During the 19th century, it burned down in a fire. An old photo from 1901 was the only one used for the reconstruction of the historic site. On December 26 1901, a memorial plate was positioned at the exact spot where Levski was captured. On June 5 1924, the reconstruction of the inn began....

St. Velikomuchenik Georgi Church, Lesidren

Tue, 16 Jun 2009 14:50:00 +0300

The church named St. Velikomuchenik Georgi in the village of Lesidren dates back to 1859 when the sultan gave his permission for the construction of a Christian sanctuary. Its authentic looks have been preserved till present day. A school functioned alongside the church but was reconstructed after it was burned down. St. Velikomuchenik Georgi was named a monument of culture in 1976. Craftsmen used only stones in the construction. Volunteers brought stones from an area near the village. The church foundations are one to two m deep. According to historic writings, church construction lasted three to four years. The church appeared in the center of the village, right across the Ottoman administrative building. During that period, Lesidren had 200 houses. Two twin brothers from Triavna worked on the church construction. Both of them were students of famous craftsman Koliu...

Sveta Troitsa Cathedral in Gabrovo

Tue, 16 Jun 2009 14:11:00 +0300

One of the most beautiful churches in Gabrovo is called Sveta Troitsa (Holy Trinity). The church is situated in the central part of town and is part of the revival period triangle formed by the Clock Tower, Dechkova house and the church itself. Sveta Troitsa’s history began in 1804 when a small church appeared where the cathedral is today. It existed until 1879 when the construction of a bigger church began. Ousta Gencho Novakov was the craftsman responsible for church construction. Work continued 10 years but the result is a masterpiece of Bulgarian revival-period architecture. The newly constructed church started functioning on November 5 1889. The church impresses with its size and central dome supported by four columns. Its interior is also breath-taking. The church is known for its beautiful icons and library that contains some unique religious publications....

100 National Tourism Sites: Botev Peak

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 12:29:00 +0300

One major challenge for all nature, mountain and hiking lovers is reaching Botev peak. Botev is the highest Stara Planina Mountain peak and reaches the impressive 2376 m. It ranks third in Bulgaria after Mousala and Vihren. Several paths lead to the peak, yet Botev is hardly accessible and the trip will last an entire day. A meteorological station and a TV tower were set up at the peak. The tower provides TV and radio signal for nearly half of the Bulgarian territory. Making the effort to reach the peak is worth it, since during fair weather, Botev offers amazing view. The region is famous for other natural landmarks. Bulgaria’s biggest waterfall, Raiskoto Pruskalo, is situated nearby. Its 124 m make it the tallest waterfall on the Balkans, as well. Raiskite Skali rock phenomenon and Kaloferskoto Pruskalo waterfall are also situated in the area. Botev peak is...

St. Dimitur Cathedral in Stara Zagora

Thu, 28 May 2009 15:49:00 +0300

One of Stara Zagora’s landmarks is St. Dimitur cathedral. The church is situated on 1 Pop Bogomil street and is the oldest Christian temple in the town. The cathedral was constructed from 1859 to 1861. During the Ottoman reign over Bulgaria, it was known as the priest’s house. It acted both as a church and as a school. Gradually, a district formed around the priest’s house. All events connected to the historic development of Stara Zagora somehow involve St. Dimitur. Wall paintings in the church are unusually interesting. They contradict church doctrines and present individuals that played important roles in Stara Zagora historic events. These pictures tell the story of revolutionary Vassil Levski and the manner in which Bulgarians welcomed Russian soldiers during the Russo-Turkish war. The paintings were created during the renovation of the...

Baba Vida Fortress

Wed, 27 May 2009 16:19:00 +0300

Baba Vida fortress is situated in the outskirts of the town of Vidin, in the northwestern part of Bulgaria. Its long history started nearly 2000 years ago, when the fortress was built on the spot previously hosting a Roman fortress used as an observation post. Throughout centuries the stronghold was used as a fortress and castle of local rulers. During the reign of King Ivan Sratzimir, ruler during the Second Bulgarian Kingdom period, Baba Vida was expanded and improved and became the primary residence of the king. Baba Vida was the most important fortification in this part of Bulgaria during the period. During the Ottoman reign over Bulgarian lands, the fortress was used as a defense facility, which changed its architecture plans and internal arrangement. Many barracks were also built. Now Baba Vida is fully restored in its medieval appearance. The fortress has square...

Gabrovo's Ouspenie Bogorodichno Church

Tue, 26 May 2009 16:01:00 +0300

In the very heart of Gabrovo you will see a beautiful bridge over Iantra River. This is also the location of Ouspenie Bogorodichno church. Back in 1865, funds were donated for the construction of a new church. Ousta Gencho Kirov was the craftsman responsible for the construction. He was a student of famous Bulgarian builder Kolio Ficheto. Ouspenie Bogorodichno church was constructed in 1865. It officially opened doors on October 26 1866. The church is made of stone and features two domes and two sets of stone columns. Ousta Gencho Kolev was also responsible for the stone decorations on the walls. The iconostasis is wood carved in 1885. It is considered one of the masterpieces of revival-period art in Bulgaria. Near the church you will find St. Petka Gabrovska chapel. St. Petka is the patron saint of Gabrovo.

Sokolski (Gabrovski) Monastery

Fri, 15 May 2009 15:10:00 +0300

Ouspenie Bogorodichno Monastery near the town of Gabrovo is also known as Sokolski Monastery. It is situated 12 km southeast of the town and four km away from the ethnographic complex of Etura. An eco path connects the monastery and the complex and the walk lasts around two hours. Scientists believe that the sanctuary was constructed in 1833. Monks moved there from Troyan Monastery. According to another hypothesis, a monastery already functioned there and underwent renovation in the 30s of the 19th century, when the monks moved there. Monks constructed a small wooden church nearby a shallow cave. A residential building was set up nearby. Only one year after, both constructions were torn down and replaced with stone buildings. The monastery officially opened doors in 1834. The residential part of the complex was constructed on the plateau above the cave. A school started...

Shoumen Fortress

Thu, 07 May 2009 14:21:00 +0300

The remains of the ancient Shoumen fortress are located three km away from the center of the town of Shoumen. The name of the town probably derived from the name of king Simeon the Great. Thracians probably constructed the fortress, which was later on modified by Bulgarians, Romans and Byzantines. Shoumen fortress is one of the oldest fortifications in Bulgaria with its 3200 years of history. The fortress was a complex of buildings and military equipment and hosted the town until the 15th century. It played key role during the Second Bulgarian Kingdom and was used in the first years of the Ottoman reign. In 1444, the crusaders of Vladislav III of Varna destroyed and burned the Shoumen stronghold. Today, remains of the fortress can be seen, together with the outdoors museum that was set up there. Excavation works uncovered important details about the life and military...

Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 15:40:00 +0300

Our Lady of Fatima Catholic church is situated on Pleven’s very entrance where the road to Lovech passes. An empty space existed there seven to eight years ago. Now, a beautiful church featuring intriguing architecture has appeared. The church is one of the biggest Catholic sanctuaries in the country. Its overall area is 1100 sq m. Each detail carries deep symbolism. The foundations and columns are cross-shaped. If explored from above, the church is cross-shaped, as well. A statue group at the entrance of the church carries additional symbolism. It represents Virgin Mary and the three shepherd children from Fatima. The composition is the work of Pleven artist Kiril Meskin and was donated to the Catholic church. White marble was used in the making to symbolize purity and innocence. Virgin Mary’s figure alone weighs nearly three tons. According to the...

Ouspenie Bogorodichno Church in Kurdzhali

Fri, 17 Apr 2009 14:25:00 +0300

Ouspenie Bogorodichno church in the town of Kurdzhali is one of the most visited landmarks in the country. Several reasons are responsible for the high interest. One of them is the fact that Father Boian Saruev, one of the main Christian activists in the Rhodope region, manages this sanctuary. In the beginning of the 20th century, the Kurdzhali region village of Dzhebiroglar was the home of a woman named Kalina Kehaiova. She had a dream of Virgin Mary. In the dream, Kehaiova learned that a church should be constructed near the village and shared the dream with other village residents. Nobody paid attention to her words. Kehaiova had the dream several times and finally learned that Virgin Mary will give other village residents a sign. People discovered an icon, once they started digging in the area. A healing spring was uncovered later on. Villagers believed Kehaiova and constructed...

St. Athanasius Chirpan Monastery

Tue, 07 Apr 2009 15:43:00 +0300

St. Athanasius, also known as Chirpan or Zlatnolivadenski Monastery, is situated on a picturesque hill near the Chirpan region village of Zlatna Livada. The monastery complex includes a church that was reconstructed in 1961, a cave and a well known for its healing power, old buildings from 1840 that have not undergone renovation and new constructions built in 1979. Stara River separates the cave from the monastery complex. As in the case of many other monasteries, St. Athanasius used to be a shelter of Bulgarian revolutionaries among which Vasil Levski. Zlatnolivadenski Monastery was founded during the Roman period, in 344 AD. St. Athanasius the Great settled there. He decided to live in a cave to save locals from epidemics and heretical propaganda. The saint told people to build a church next to the cave in order to be safe from the epidemics. Since this came true, many...

Kabile Fortress

Tue, 07 Apr 2009 13:46:00 +0300

Kabile archaeological preserve is situated five km away from the town of Yambol. The ancient settlement of Kabile is part of this preserve. The preserve is located in the region of Sredna Gora’s Zaichi Vruh and the view from that spot is breathtaking. Ceramic dishes discovered in the region show that the area was populated long time ago. Kabile appeared around an ancient Thracian sanctuary. According to historians, a settlement appeared there for the first time in the end of the 2nd and the beginning of the 1st centuries BC. Alexander the Great’s conquest led to reconstruction and the settlement started resembling Greek cities with the typical acropolis, square, temples and fortress walls. Romans conquered the region in the year 72 BC. Kabile became one of the most important transport, military and economy centers of Thrace province. Archaeologists...

St. Ivan Letni Church

Fri, 03 Apr 2009 16:06:00 +0300

St. Ivan Letni church is situated on the eastern coast of Pchelina dam, also known as Lobosh. The dam is located next to the village of Kovachevtsi in the region of Radomir. The church has been named a monument but is nothing unuSsual by itself. What makes the church unique is its location, making each visitor sense the aura of this place. The distance from Sofia is 40 to 50 km. You have to head in the Kyustendil direction and to find a road diversion six kilometers after Radomir. Take the road to the village of Potsurnentsi to reach the dam. The road there is unpaved. You will notice the church from a distance. It has been constructed at a place that locals call Pchelin Kamuk. The cliff rises above its surroundings. St. Ivan Letni has been constructed on the edge of this rock. St. Ivan Letni, as Bulgarians call him, is the patron of the church. The building was set up as...

Alexander Nevski Church, Bakadzhika

Fri, 03 Apr 2009 15:03:00 +0300

Everyone knows that Alexander Nevski cathedral is situated in Sofia. But few people have heard about Alexander Nevski church in Yambol’s region of Bakadzhika. The church there was constructed to honor the memory of Bulgarian and Russian soldiers who died in the Bulgarian liberation struggles. General Mihail Skobelev gave the idea for the construction of the church. He settled in the region, together with his soldiers in the end of 1878. Skobelev and town residents decided to construction the church on Bakadzhitsite hill, where a monastery used to exist in the past. The church was named after Russian tsar Alexander II, often called ‘the Liberator.’ Alexander Nevski had always been a patron of the Russian tsar and the name came naturally. The church has length of 16.7 m and width of 5.2 m. It has a separate section for women, constructed following...

Kabile Monastery Rozhdestvo Bogorodichno

Wed, 01 Apr 2009 16:34:00 +0300

Kabile Monastery or Rozhdestvo na Bogoroditsa is situated six km away from Iambol in the region of Kabile archaeology preserve. A wide, empty valley will catch your eye shortly before reaching Kabile. The monastery is located right there. The monastery has ancient history. Legends tell that in the fourth and fifth centuries a monastery existed there and was well known for a healing spring flowing there. Kabile Monastery became a convent and acted as such until the Ottoman conquest in the 14th century. Ottoman soldiers came to the region in search of a treasure. They failed finding any and in their rage destroyed the monastery. For many years people forgot about the monastery. Yet, legends of the healing spring were still told. In 1898, a man from a nearby village had a dream in which a woman showed him the healing spring. The man started digging and discovered it. Quarrels...

Svetitsa Mound

Sun, 01 Mar 2009 11:45:00 +0200

An ancient grave of a Thracian ruler was found in 2004 in the Svetitsa mound near the village of Kran. Fortunately, the grave was not robbed and the artifacts are preserved. This grave is one of the richest ancient remains ever found on the territory of Bulgaria. The parts of the dissembled body were found in the funeral chamber, as well as dissembled part of ceremony artifacts. This proves that the buried person followed the Orpheus rituals. A unique golden mask of weight of almost 700 gr, as well as a gold ring with a stamp found there signify that a great Thracian king was buried there. The gold mask can be seen now in the National Museum of Archeology in Sofia.

Iskur Gorge

Fri, 06 Feb 2009 15:34:00 +0200

The Iskur gorge has been deservingly named one of the most beautiful and virginal places in Bulgaria. A wild river has cut through the slopes of western Stara Planina Mountain. Over time, it managed to form its own path through the rocks. Scientists believe that the river existed much before the mountain formed. It managed to keep its path by carving through the slopes and cutting Stara Planina in two. A century ago, the place was almost inaccessible. In the end of the 19th century, a railway made passage possible. The region gradually got populated. People decided to settle there because of the peaceful and beautiful nature. The best way to observe the gorge today involves the railway. Take the train from Sofia to Vratsa. Some of the nature wonders to be seen along the way include the Kutinski pyramids and Lakatnishki cliffs. The few populated areas in the region are also...

Religious Tourism Sites in Sofia

Fri, 06 Feb 2009 09:49:00 +0200

Alexander Nevski Alexander Nevski cathedral is one of the most magnificent and fine symbols of Sofia. It is situated on a central city square that carries the same name and is close to the National Assembly. Apart from being city symbol, Alexander Nevski is the church of the Bulgarian patriarch. The church was constructed in neo-Byzantine style. Its area is 3170 sq m and the height of the tallest bell tower is 50 m. These dimensions make Alexander Nevski the second biggest Orthodox church on the Balkans after a cathedral in Belgrade. To learn more about it, click here. St. Sofia St. Sofia church and the Bulgarian capital carry the same name. This is the second oldest church in Sofia after St. George. The church is situated near Alexander Nevski square. Construction took place in the 4th century over the foundation of several early Christian sanctuaries. Archaeological...

St. Petka Church in Balsha Village

Mon, 02 Feb 2009 16:32:00 +0200

St. Petka church is situated only a few minutes of walk away from the center of the village of Balsha. The village is located in the Sofia region, nine to 10 km away from the capital city. The ancient sanctuary is situated right next to a new church that was constructed in 1920. The domes can be noticed from a distance. According to archaeologists, the old church was constructed in the 14th century. Today, only its ruins remain but are still an interesting site. Parts of the walls have been preserved. Its dimensions of eight x six meters rank it as a small church. In front of the entrance, you can spot the remains of walls that in the past formed a hallway. The entire church was painted, unfortunately most of the wall paintings are in terrifying condition. One of the corners features grave crosses dating back to the revival period. A shelter has been constructed over the...

Petia Doubarova Memorial House

Sun, 01 Feb 2009 14:51:00 +0200

The corner of a small street in the center of Bourgas is the location of the house of Petia Doubarova. The youngest Bulgarian poetess, who committed suicide at the age of 17, dedicated her life to Bourgas and her love for the sea and the people. Upon her death, the house of Doubarova remained empty. In 1995, a museum collection was placed there. Two of the halls present the personal belongings of the poetess. There, visitors can see her notebooks, school uniform and numerous pictures. Doubareva’s sleeping room has been preserved in its original state. Her guitar, books, a radio and Russian dolls are still kept inside. Apart from a place for tribute to the poetess, the museum has turned into a cultural center that preserves many poems. Many young poets visit it to get inspiration. Petia Doubarova national literature competition takes place there each year. Its...

Riahovets Fortress

Wed, 28 Jan 2009 16:38:00 +0200

Riahovets fortress is situated three km west of the town of Gorna Oriahovitsa. It was probably constructed during the 3rd and 4th centuries AD to protect Roman roads. Bulgarians continued using the fortress, which became especially important during the Second Bulgarian Kingdom. The capital at that time, Turnovgrad, was situated only seven km away from Riahovets and served as its main protective facility. Two theories explain the name of the fortress. Some believe it was derived from the Bulgarian word for walnut (oreh). The second theory states that the name comes from the Persian word rah, meaning road. Riahovets was constructed in an area providing natural defense from three sides. Constructors used the rocks and the terrain to fortify the building. Karel Škorpil, the first explorer of the fortress, wrote that he discovered two legends about Riahovets....

Asen Raztsvetnikov Memorial House

Wed, 28 Jan 2009 15:15:00 +0200

The memorial house dedicated to poet Asen Raztsvetnikov is situated in Draganovo village, 15 km away from Gorna Oriahovitsa. Raztsvetnikov’s birth house hosts the exhibition today. It was renovated in 1986 and the museum was opened there one year later. Seven halls present the exhibition. The collection includes a large number of personal belongings and documents. Some autographed books, letters, photographs and other interesting items that belonged to Raztsvetnikov can be explored. An ethnographic collection has been put on display in the yard. The museum is part of the National Literature Museum. In the autumn of each even year, children celebrations are organized there.

St. Ivan Rilski Church in Bourgas

Tue, 27 Jan 2009 21:55:00 +0200

If you happen to be visiting the city of Bourgas and are interested in its landmarks, make sure to visit St. Ivan Rilski church. It is situated right next to the Bourgas Free University. The church is not among the famous tourism landmarks in the town, yet it has its long history. Construction began during Bourgas expansion after the liberation of Bulgaria. Immigrants from Macedonia arrived and settled there. Revival activist Alexander Georgiev Kodzhafaliata donated to the homeless immigrants 600 plots and one plot for the construction of the church. Work began on July 7 1933 and ended on April 1 1934. The church is rather small but its hallway is 7.5 m long and 4.2 m wide. Iconostasis was made during the construction works themselves. Icons were made by professor Nikolai Kozhouharov. Wooden parts lack decorations so that focus is placed on the beautiful icons. A...

Surp Hach Armenian Church in Bourgas

Thu, 15 Jan 2009 14:45:00 +0200

Armenian church Surp Hach, or Holy Cross, is situated in the central part of the coastal city of Bourgas. Surrounded by green trees, it is located on 13 Lermontov street. The church appears tiny, yet it carries memories from the past and gives visitors a sense of peacefulness and tranquility. Surp Hach is one of the oldest Orthodox sanctuaries in the city. A date has been carved on a rock inside the church. The carving says ‘1853.’ According to historians, a chapel existed before the church was constructed. Some documents point out that the church was constructed in 1808. The sanctuary was situated in the exact same place and was made of wood and stone. It carried the name St. Virgin Mary. The current name was given in 1853. Surp Hach features typical Armenian architecture. Visitors today cannot get a sense of the old construction, since the church...

Vulchitrun Treasure

Sun, 11 Jan 2009 10:20:00 +0200

The Vulchitrun treasure is the biggest golden treasure ever found in Bulgaria. It was discovered during farm works in 1925 in the village of Vulchitrun near Pleven. It consists of 13 objects with total weight of 12.5 kg. Work on all artifacts show fineness and quality. Seven items have the shape of lids, four are big cups with curved handles, one triple container made of three oblong smaller containers and one more article with interesting shape. Historians think that more objects made up the entire treasure but some were probably stolen or hidden. The treasure dates back to the 9th or 8th centuries BC., which makes it one of the oldest treasures discovered in the country. Now the treasure from Vulchitrun can be seen in the National Museum of Archaeology in Sofia.

Plovdiv's St. Dimitur Church

Fri, 09 Jan 2009 19:32:00 +0200

According to archaeologists, construction of St. Dimitur church in the city of Plovdiv began during the reign of tsar Ivan Asen, right after the battle of Klokotitsa in 1230. Bulgarians constructed the church to honor St. Dimitur since they believed St. Dimitur came to aid and to protect them. According to the legend, tsar Ivan Asen had a vision in which St. Dimitur appeared as his protector. The place from the vision of the ruler was selected as the location of St. Dimitur church. Information about the exact history of the church is missing but it was destroyed and reconstructed several times. The current church was set up in 1830 to 1838. As the majority of Bulgarian churches, St. Dimitur is elongated and has dimensions of 28 x 19 m. It has been separated in three parts and features two rows of marble columns. Ornaments decorate the columns and the arches of the church....

Mihalich Rock Church

Fri, 09 Jan 2009 15:57:00 +0200

The rock church near the Haskovo region village of Mihalich has been carved into a limestone cliff. It has been constructed in a manner as if regular building materials have been used. Constructors put so much effort in making the church appear as a regular construction that they carved a dome of diameter 5.5 m. Its height is six m. The church features other architecture elements, typical for regular constructions. It appears as if the dome is supported by columns. A cross has been carved and the walls feature no other images. Floor has been made over the stone. A thin lair of soil was placed. Pieces of early medieval ceramics can be discovered near the church. Several sanctuaries from various time periods have been found nearby. The Mihalich rock church is differentiated from all other rock churches in Bulgaria because of its complex architecture and shape. Water is...

Haskovo's St. Bogoroditsa Church

Fri, 09 Jan 2009 15:09:00 +0200

In the beginning of the 19th century, the town of Haskovo had only a small church, which was insufficient for the residents of the town. Rich merchants decided to build a bigger and more beautiful church. After persistent pleas, the sultan permitted the construction of the new church. Construction began in 1832 and ended in 1837. Large amount of money was used and people from nearby villages came to help Haskovo constructors. Bulgarians in the region united. St. Bogoroditsa church was important part of the Bulgarian religious revival. A number of patriots aided its construction. Apart from its size, the church brags beautiful decorations. Most of the interior is covered in woodcarvings and few wall paintings. The icons date to the 19th and the beginning of the 20th centuries.

Ouspenie Bogorodichno Church

Thu, 08 Jan 2009 14:38:00 +0200

One of the oldest churches in Bulgaria is called Ouspenie Bogorodichno and is situated in the village of Ouzondzhovo. The church was constructed around 1500. During the Ottoman rule, it was torn down and a mosque replaced it in 1593. Part of the mosque fence is still preserved. In 1906, the Turkish embassy returned the plot to Bulgaria and the construction of a church began. The iconostasis is nearly nine m high and 14 m wide. It is the biggest iconostasis created in the studio of Triavna’s Ousta Darin Bozhkov. Bozhkov was named best craftsman by the Triavna guild in 1804. Various iconostasis elements have been made from different types of wood. Some of the old icons in the church have undergone restoration. The old iconostasis has been preserved as a cultural layer underneath the new one.

Shishmanova House

Wed, 07 Jan 2009 14:27:00 +0200

Shishmanova house in Haskovo belonged to Hristodoul Vulchev Shishmanov, one of the richest merchants in the town. He was the first representative of Christians in front of Ottoman authorities. Shishmanov’s entire family took active part in social issues. The building currently houses an exposition named Crafts in the Haskovo Region. Wool processing, silk production and cotton processing can all be examined there. Construction of the building took place in the 19th century. Its architecture is symmetrical. The house has two floors and beautiful façades. Shishmanova house is situated on 7 Bratia Minchevi street. The collection can be explored from Tuesday to Friday from 9 am to midday and from 1 pm to 5 pm. To visit during weekends, you need to call in advance.

Chorbadzhi Paskal's House

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 13:26:00 +0200

Chorbadzhi Paskal’s house in Haskovo dates back to the middle of the 19th century. It belonged to a rich merchant. The house has two floors and is asymmetrical. It demonstrates the lifestyle of rich Haskovo families from the period after Bulgaria’s liberation. The building has been considered an architectural masterpiece. A museum exhibition has been placed inside, presenting the treasures and lifestyle in the Haskovo region. One of the most impressive rooms on the first floor is the kitchen. A cupboard and a dining room were set up right next to it. Copper dishes were used, signifying that the family was wealthy. The dining room features traditional carpets and curtains, combined with porcelain dishes and European furniture. The dining room faces the street and was the most used chamber. Some of the rooms feature impressive woodcarvings. The...

Goliamoboukovski Monastery

Sat, 20 Dec 2008 17:16:00 +0200

Goliamoboukovski Monastery is situated three km away from the village of Goliamo Boukovo, in the heart of Strandzha Mountain. The village is located 58 km away from the coastal city of Bourgas. The sanctuary is the only monastery functioning in the Strandzha region. According to legends, the monastery was constructed over the remains of a Thracian sanctuary. Some historians believe that the Paroriyski Monastery existed there in the 13th and 14th centuries. Goliamoboukovski Monastery was constructed by a village person, who had a dream of Virgin Mary. She showed him the exact place. The person had been ill for a long time but was cured when he discovered the place from his dream and washed himself in the spring flowing there. The monastery experienced reconstruction in 1887. In 1903, it turned to be a major landowner. New premises and a mill were constructed but only ruins...

St. Petka Church in Plovdiv

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 15:42:00 +0200

Mouradie mosque was later on constructed at the place of the cathedral. Bulgarians decided to move the church to the old part of town and this is how St. Petka appeared. A number of theories explain who the church was named after. Greeks honor a saint by the same name and several disputes have taken place throughout time. In the 80s of the 20th century the church was closed down and neglected. Only older people kept the memories of it alive. In recent years, St. Petka saw renewal. The church is situated near Ponedelnik Pazar and you can find it, following the steep stairs in the old part of town. It appears as if emerging from the rocks. Church foundations were made of brick and stone and thick stone walls surround them. Two small windows were made in the western wall. The bell tower has several rectangular apertures. An icon of Jesus was placed over its entrance....

Nessebar's Archaeology Museum

Tue, 16 Dec 2008 14:32:00 +0200

One of the richest archaeology museums in Bulgaria is situated in Nessebar. The exposition was presented in 1994 and the museum is situated on 2A Mesambria street, in the old part of town. Over the past decades, archaeologists made several discoveries in the region of Nessebar. These are evidence of the rich cultural heritage of the region. Many of the artifacts were placed in the museum and can be seen in its four halls. A UNESCO diploma has been placed in the foyer of the museum. The diploma shows that in 1983, the old part of Nessebar was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Mesambria and the Thracians hall shows numerous artifacts from the 12th to 9th centuries BC proving that the region was inhabited in the distant past. Ceramics dishes and a silver coin treasure are some of the most curious exhibition items there. The second hall protects monuments of culture...

Pleven's St. Nikolai Church

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 15:54:00 +0200

St. Nikolai Mirikliyski Choudotvorets church is one of the few revival period monuments of national importance that is situated in Pleven. In the 13th century, a small chapel was constructed at the spot by merchants who visited Pleven often. Several assaults resulted in the burning down of the chapel. Pleven residents decided to construct a new church in 1699. They received a permission from the sultan and construction ended on October 18 1834. St. Nikolai church turned into a center for religious and national independence struggles. Revolutionaries and enlightenment activists found shelter there. The church features architecture typical for the revival period. An iconostasis was placed in its eastern part. Woodcarvings and the stall were created between 1843 and 1845. Historians have found some evidence about the icon painters in Sofia’s St. St. Cyril and...

St. Troitsa Church in Pleven

Fri, 12 Dec 2008 15:41:00 +0200

The setting up of Pleven’s St. Troitsa church started in 1893. Partial construction took place in 1898 and all work was officially finalized in 1913. Columns that support the church date back to the Roman period. St. Troitsa features the typical Eastern Orthodox architectural style. The church is one of the biggest sanctuaries in Pleven. Four priests take care of the needs of all believers. St. Troitsa has its church choir. The church is open for visits each day from 7.30 am to 6.30 pm.

St. Paraskeva Church in Pleven

Thu, 11 Dec 2008 15:47:00 +0200

St. Paraskeva church is situated in the central part of Pleven, near Danail Popov boulevard. In 1850, people from Maniova district managed to collect donations and to construct a small church named St. Petka-Paraskeva. A school was set up and started functioning alongside the church in 1858. Trade and commerce expanded the town and the need for a bigger church grew. In a few months, religious authorities from Pleven managed to obtain the needed permission from the sultan. Construction began on May 4 1870 and ended in 1872. A beautiful new sanctuary was constructed at the site of the old church. The church has two premises and a central part. Various craftsmen provided the icons as presents to the church. Artist Gospodin Serbezov worked on the wall paintings. St. Paraskeva church is open for visits each day from 7 am to 7 pm.

St. Ludwig Cathedral

Tue, 09 Dec 2008 14:13:00 +0200

Bulgaria accepted the Orthodox faith, but before that tsar Boris carried out talks to decide whether it would be more appropriate to accept Catholicism. Tsar Kaloian later on addressed the Vatican, but Bulgaria still remained a Christian Orthodox country. The Catholic church in Bulgaria saw its first expression in 1565. Chiprovo uprising, the first organized attempt to overthrow Ottoman rule, happened because of the efforts of Bulgarian Catholics. One of the biggest Catholic churches in the country is St. Ludwig in Plovdiv. The cathedral was constructed by a Roman architect, one of the best in the sphere of gothic architecture. Its foundations were laid in 1858 and the church opened doors on March 25 1861. According to a legend, a small house existed at the exact same location three centuries earlier. Believers used to gather there. Other documents show that a...

National Arts and Crafts Exhibition in Oreshak

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 14:11:00 +0200

Stara Planina hides in its folds, near Troyan Monastery, the village of Oreshak. This small village houses one of a kind for the country arts and crafts exhibition. The exhibition was created in the second half of the 20th century but has long prehistory. In the second half of the 19th century, craftsmen from all parts of Bulgaria used to come to Troyan Monastery on August 15. There, they presented their works and created one of the biggest crafts fairs in Bulgaria. Interest towards crafts was renewed in the middle of the past century. In 1967, craftsmen formed a labor society and in 1971 it opened the national arts and crafts exhibition. Oreshak was selected as the place, since the village has preserved its traditions. The exhibition has been opened to popularize Bulgarian craftworks. In 1978, the exhibition saw international participation for the first time. Craftsmen...

Pomorie Beehive Tomb

Tue, 11 Nov 2008 16:31:00 +0200

An ancient beehive tomb is situated near the entrance of the coastal town of Pomorie. The tomb has been found under a mound in the Palekastro region. According to historians, it dates back to the 2nd to 4th centuries AD and was probably a mausoleum tomb of a rich family, where religious rituals took place. The tomb was discovered in 1888 and is the biggest ancient burial place discovered in Bulgaria. The unique monument has a circular chamber of 11.6 m in diameter and 5.5 m in height. Its hallway is 22 m long and 2.4 m high. Stone and bricks were used in the construction. Archaeologists found traces of paint, meaning that the central chamber was covered in drawings. The central column is of interest since it is hollow and expanding to merge with the circular wall. Five niches were used for the placement of urns. Architecture of the construction, including a chamber, a hallway...

Pomorie Monastery St. George Pobedonosets

Tue, 11 Nov 2008 15:21:00 +0200

Pomorie Monastery St. Velikomuchenik Georgi Pobedonosets is situated 20 km away from the coastal city of Bourgas, in the town of Pomorie. This is the only functioning monastery in the southern part of Bulgaria and has been named a monument of culture. According to historians, a chapel existed in the area back in the 7th century. The monastery was constructed in 1856. The Ottoman conquest led to the destruction of the sanctuary. A rich merchant named Selim Bei settled there in the 19th century. Selim Bei was very sick. His servant had a dream one night. St. George told him about a healing spring. The servant found the place and a marble bas-relief of St. George. A spring flowed there and Selim Bei was cured. The merchant decided to construct a small chapel in the area. He later accepted Christianity and donated all of his belongings to the monastery complex. The...

Bourgas Natural Science Museum

Fri, 07 Nov 2008 13:49:00 +0200

A reconstructed building on Fotinov street in Bourgas houses the Natural Science Museum. The collection is unique for the southern coastal region and presents flora and fauna from Strandzha Mountain. Specimens have been placed in six halls having total area of 250 sq m. The museum presents over 1700 exhibition items, 102 photos and 299 charts and maps. The geology collection presents development of the region throughout time. Visitors can take a look at marble pieces, volcanic rocks and numerous minerals and fossils. In addition, 25 types of soil have been presented. Botany division presents plant species in Strandzha and the coastal region. A number of endangered species can also be examined, alongside 68 plant families. Swamp and forest plants have found their place in the museum, as well. Strandzha is known for some unusual plant species. The typical trees that make...

German Monastery St. Ivan Rilski

Sat, 01 Nov 2008 14:41:00 +0200

German Monastery St. Ivan Rilski is situated only five km southeast of the village of German, Sofia region. A sign will guide you to monastery right before you enter the village. The road is quite good and ends in front of the sanctuary. The monastery carries the name of St. Ivan Rilski, who was especially revered in Sofia region. It was constructed in the 10th century and features among the oldest sanctuaries in Bulgaria today. According to a legend, St. Ivan Rilski lived in the region for a little while, after which he settled in Rila. Remains of a Byzantine fortress can be seen north of the monastery. Han Kroum’s soldiers destroyed the fortification in 809, while conquering Sredets (present-time Sofia). During the reign of tsar Petur, the monastery turned into a spiritual center. When Ottomans conquered Sofia in the end of the 14th century, the monastery was...

Propada Complex

Fri, 31 Oct 2008 14:11:00 +0200

Propada tomb is an excellent example of Thracian cult architecture. It is situated three km northwest of the town of Malko Turnovo, on a hill where a necropolis of 40 mounds starts. Propada tomb was discovered in 1979. Its architecture makes Propada tomb similar to the ones discovered in Kazanluk, Mezek and Strelcha. Some of its elements, however, make it completely different and unique. Vertical fortification of stone blocks presents an early construction style, suggesting the tomb is much older than some of the archaeological artifacts discovered in it. Mounds discovered in the region feature graves that date back to the first millennium BC. The chambers have been lined with stone plates that have also been used to cover the facilities. Archaeologists researched two tombs from the necropolis in 2001. Seven people from the same family have been buried in one of the...

Luvskata Glava Rock Phenomenon

Mon, 27 Oct 2008 14:55:00 +0200

One of the most romantic and peaceful places in Bulgaria is Ropotamo preserve. Dense forests and Ropotamo River, flowing though and entering the sea make visitors feel as if in fairytale surroundings. Right there, on the road from Primorsko to Sozopol, you can spot Luvskata Glava (the lion’s head) rock phenomenon. This beautiful stone phenomenon has formed at one of the highest spots in the preserve. The lion stands there, observing the flow of the river. Many legends have been told about the formation. According to one, a deep well is situated on the peak and a treasure has been hidden inside. Vulchan rebel attacked an Ottoman ship carrying lots of gold and hid all of the stolen precious metal into the well. The fortress situated in the vicinities of Luvskata Glava is called Vulchanovo Kale. The mystical fortress Ranouli is situated in the area, according to other...

Gorna Oriahovitsa Monastery St. Prork Ilia

Thu, 23 Oct 2008 17:02:00 +0300

In 1973, St. Prorok Ilia Monastery in Gorna Oriahovitsa was named monument of culture of national importance. The monastery was founded in the 13th century during the Second Bulgarian Kingdom. During the Ottoman conquest, it was burned down and abandoned. Research of monastery remains began in the early 20th century. In 1908, excavation works were carried out and the foundations of the monastery’s church were found. Its dimensions were eight x four m. Walls that were nearly one m thick surrounded the complex. An icon of Virgin Mary, dating back to the 16th century was also discovered and can still be seen in the church today. Gorna Oriahovitsa residents collected funds for monastery renovation. In 1937, the construction of a new church began over the ruins of the old sanctuary. Work ended the next year and the church started functioning on September 22 1940. One...

Kovachevitsa

Wed, 22 Oct 2008 11:39:00 +0300

Unique architecture and raspberry wine will welcome you in the village of Kovachevitsa. The village is situated in the Rhodope region, 23 km away from the town of Gotse Delchev. Only 40 people live permanently in the village but it livens up because of the numerous tourist visits. The village appeared in the end of the 17th century. When people in the Rhodope region were forced to accept Islam, many escaped their villages and hid in the mountain areas. In this manner, separate districts formed and later turned into settlements. Kovachevitsa had its independent self-governance during the Ottoman rule. During the revival period, the village turned into a spiritual and education center. It also functioned as a center of the Macedonian liberation struggles. Since the village was situated on the very border between Bulgaria and Turkey, it was liberated only in 1912 during the Balkan...

Dan Kolov Memorial House

Fri, 17 Oct 2008 14:18:00 +0300

Famous Bulgarian wrestler Dan Kolov was born in the village of Sennik, seven km away from the town of Sevlievo. Kolov’s house is situated on one of the central streets and has been turned into a museum. Tourists are certainly going to notice the building, since it is one of the few that feature European architecture. Upon his success, Kolov traveled to France and left his brother Zhivko some money for the construction of a house. The granddaughter of his brother, Ianka Balkanska, is responsible for the exposition and the house. She lives nearby and still likes telling stories about Kolov. Family photographs have been exhibited in the premises on the first floor. Some of Kolev’s preserved personal belongings can also be seen there. A saddle, forks and porcelain dishes are some of the displayed artifacts. Kolov’s room is situated on the second...

Penio Penev Memorial House

Fri, 17 Oct 2008 12:43:00 +0300

The village of Dobromirka is situated between Sevlievo, Veliko Turnovo and Pavlikeni. Poet Penio Penev was born there. Penev’s birth house was turned into a museum in 1980. The first floor features examples of the work of Dobromirka craftsmen. People from the village are known for their construction skills. Visitors can explore diplomas and photographs. Four rooms on the second floor present the poet’s life. Photos, manuscripts and letters were put on display in the first two rooms. The third room was Penev’s office. A table still features his inkpot. Hid bed and clothing can be seen in the other corner of the room. The fourth room contains artifacts typical for the Dobromirka village lifestyle. If you have explored the house, but want to find out more about the poet, you can go to the neighboring house. An old woman named Denka will be glad to...

St. Prorok Ilia Church, Sevlievo

Fri, 17 Oct 2008 12:23:00 +0300

Sevlievo’s oldest monument of culture is St. Prorok Ilia church that is situated in the very center of the town. The church exists since the 17th century and was initially a small sanctuary, dug into the ground. In 1834, Sevlievo residents decided to renovate and expand the church. When renovations began, the son of Sevlievo’s governor allowed people to make the church much bigger than expected. Until that time, churches had to be lower than mosques. The situation changed only in 1856, when the sultan issued a decree according to which all people in the Ottoman empire were equal, regardless of religion. The renewed church is 28 m long and 14 m wide. Strong stone walls support the construction, their thickness reaching up to one m. St. Prorok Ilia is one of the few churches that feature a descent of seven steps and is still dug into the ground. From the...

Batoshevski Convent

Tue, 14 Oct 2008 16:12:00 +0300

Near the village of Batoshevo and close to Sevlievo hides Vuvedenie Bogorodichno convent. It neighbors Rositsa River and offers wonderful view of the picturesque meadows nearby. The convent consists of small church, two-storey residential construction and several other buildings. Data about the existence of the convent appeared for the first time in 1657. Probably this old monastery was destroyed and replaced by new temple later on. Two old people, Miniu and Kera, renewed the monastery in 1872. Their daughter Maria decided to become a nun. The story of the girl is closely tied to the monastery. She was 7-year old when she became sick. Maria’s parents promised God to make her a nun, if she survived. When the girl turned 15, she joined the Gabrovo Monastery and remained there six years. Upon one of her visits, Maria’s parents decided to construct a...

Batoshevski Monastery

Tue, 14 Oct 2008 15:30:00 +0300

Batoshevski Monastery is situated four km away from the village of Batoshevo and 25 km away from Sevlievo. Surrounded by dense forests and situated on a hill, the monastery gives sense of peacefulness and tranquility. The monastery named Ouspenie Bogorodichno was created during the Second Bulgarian Kingdom, between 1245 and 1257. It was initially constructed elsewhere and moved to its current location in 1836. Ouspenie Bogorodichno existed until the Ottoman conquest. It was destroyed afterwards and Bulgarians were denied the right to construct new Christian temples. In 1809, a hermit settled in the Batoshevski region. He constructed a small hut and asked people to help him in the setting up of a church. Nobody aided the hermit and he was chased away. Plague hit Sevlievo and the nearby regions in 1831. People gave promise to construct a church, once the epidemics was dealt...

Hristovski Waterfall

Mon, 13 Oct 2008 14:01:00 +0300

One of the well-known landmarks in Elenski Balkan (a specific part of Stara Planina Mountain) area is Hristovski waterfall. The waterfall was named a protected area in 1974. Hristovski waterfall is situated at an altitude of 400 m south of Hristovtsi district of Rouhovtsi village. An eco path leads to Miykovska River and the waterfall. Shelters, benches and a barbecue have been set up to allow tourists to take a break. Impressive site welcomes visitors upon their approach to the waterfall. Water falls from a height of nine m and splashes on the rocks inside the river. The western wall features vertical cliffs and with the aid of instructors you can go down the rocks of the waterfall itself. Using Alpine climbing equipment, tourists can follow the several paths in the region. A steep slope goes down the left side of the river. This slope is covered in dense...

Hadzhi Dimitur's Memorial House

Fri, 10 Oct 2008 16:52:00 +0300

In the end of the 18th century, the Sliven district of Kloutsohor witnessed the construction of a new house. Revolutionary Hadzhi Dimitur was born there on May 10 1840. The first museum collection was displayed there in 1935. It grew into an exposition in 1955. Hadzhi Dimitur’s birth house is a small, asymmetrical building that features the typical architecture for the early revival period. The traditional interior was completely renewed. In the complex, visitors can also look at a traditional wine cellar from the period. The inn of Nikola Assenov, as well as several other buildings, make up the museum complex alongside Hadzhi Dimitur’s house. Naturally, the inn features traditional interior. Rich collections presenting the life of Hadzhi Dimitur and revolutionary Stefan Karadzha have been positioned on the second floor. The collection includes...

Sliven's Dobri Chintoulov Memorial House

Fri, 10 Oct 2008 16:36:00 +0300

The Sliven district of Deli Balta hides inside the house in which Bulgarian poet Dobri Chintoulov has been living and working since 1886. Brothers Ivan and Dobri Chintoulovi built the house in the 50s of the 19th century. The building appeared near the house of their father and carries typical architecture for the period. A wide cobblestone yard leads to the asymmetrical house with wooden porches. In the 70s of the 20th century, the building underwent complete renovation and a museum collection was placed inside. Visitors can examine photos and documents, alongside Chintoulov’s personal belongings. The interior of the house has been preserved in its original looks. Books, schoolbooks and documents that belonged to Chintoulov have also been preserved. Each year, the exposition hall witnesses an award ceremony. One artist gets the Dobri Chintoulov art and...

Gornoezerovski Monastery Sveta Bogoroditsa

Tue, 23 Sep 2008 12:34:00 +0300

Gornoezerovski monastery, known officially as Sveta Bogoroditsa Monastery is situated only few km away from Bourgas between the districts of Gorno Ezerovo and Meden Roudnik. A narrow road between the two districts winds through the valley and leads to the white monastery walls that seem to stand high in the middle of nowhere. According to legends, the place housed a pagan sanctuary during Thracian times. Once Bulgarians accepted Christianity, they constructed a church. Over the years, it fell apart and the current-day church appeared. The monastery was probably founded in the 12th century. Springs flowing in the area provided healing for various diseases. The first documents that mention the monastery date back to 1892. In municipal registers, it has been mentioned as Aiazmoto. From the Bulgarian liberation to 1944, the monastery saw numerous visits from Bourgas residents....

St. Cyril and Methodius Cathedral in Bourgas

Fri, 19 Sep 2008 11:23:00 +0300

St. Cyril and Methodius church is one of the most important symbols of the coastal city of Bourgas. The cathedral is the oldest church in Bourgas, situated in the very center of the city. Plans for the construction were made in 1888, when Bourgas grew rapidly. Construction began in 1895 and the church opened doors in May 1907. The cathedral has area of 516 sq m and its length and width are respectively 32 m and 21 m. Architecture impresses with the richly decorated façade and splendid dome. Green stone, bricks and marble were used in the construction. Rich decorations beautify the interior. Visitors usually notice first the five sets of marble arcs that have been positioned as if to split the church in two parts. Iconostasis woodcarvings were created in 1930. Well-known craftsman and icon painter Kroum Kosharevski worked on them. The cathedra has been...

Blagoevgrad's Vuvedenie Bogorodichno Church

Wed, 17 Sep 2008 16:30:00 +0300

The old Blagoevgrad district of Varosha protects in its heart Vuvedenie Bogorodichno church. The sanctuary has been named a national monument of culture. Bansko icon painting artists worked on the rich church decorations. Wood carvings feature deep tracery, especially noticeable in the decorations of the iconostasis. The bell tower is unusually positioned on the side of the church. Vuvedenie Bogorodichno complex has been constructed to resemble the church of Rila Monastery. A Gotse Delchev memorial and a monument of Ivan Pavlovich Orlinski (one of the soldiers connected to the first liberation of Blagoevgrad from Ottoman rule) can be seen in the church yard. Father Petur is ready to discuss the history of the church with each curious visitor. Before the church was constructed, a small chapel existed there and was the home of a monk. The first Blagoevgrad school started...

Stob Pyramids

Fri, 29 Aug 2008 14:25:00 +0300

Stob Pyramids are rock formations resembling the shape. They are situated near the village of Stob in the western part of Rila Mountain. Formations can be seen both on the northern and southern slopes. The northern ones are bigger, while the southern region features many more. Pyramids vary in height from seven to 10 meters. Some of the rocks are cone-shaped. Others look like mushrooms. Even today, the pyramids continue changing in shape. Weather conditions are actively affecting the landscape and are often destroying rocks or creating new pyramids. Locals say that it is best to observe the area during sunset on or full moon nights. Many legends explain the appearance of the Stob Pyramids. Almost all focus on a wedding. According to one legend, all guests of the wedding turned into stones because the best man was so charmed by the bride that he tried to kiss her. Another...

Raiskoto Pruskalo Waterfall

Wed, 27 Aug 2008 14:58:00 +0300

Raiskoto Pruskalo is Bulgaria’s and the Balkan’s highest waterfall. It is situated in Stara Planina Mountain, more specifically in Dzhendema preserve. The proximity to Kalofer gives the waterfall the name of Kalofersko Pruskalo. During fair weather, the waterfall can be observed from Kalofer. Its height is the impressive 124 meters. The cascade starts below Botev peak and gets water from the melting mountain snow. A small spring starts from the cascade and enters Biala River. Rai hut is situated in the same area. Lovers of rock climbing often visit the waterfall and the surrounding cliffs. Raiskoto Pruskalo is one of Bulgaria’s most important nature landmarks and numerous tourists gather there, especially during the summer. Raiskoto Pruskalo was named a nature landmark in 1965.

Slona Rock Phenomenon

Wed, 27 Aug 2008 12:06:00 +0300

Locals call this nature landmark Slona (the elephant) The rock phenomenon is situated four km away from the spa resort of Devin. The rocks resemble the shape of an elephant and can be seen on the road from Devin to the village of Nastan, several hundred meters away from the diversion to Smolyan. A factory has unfortunately piled waste right in front of the phenomenon, on the bank of Shirokolushka River. You will need to use your imagination to recognize the silhouette. It is possible to miss the rock, if you are unfamiliar, so it would be best to come with a guide. Scientists believe that the opening that represents the elephant’s mouth was once a cave entrance and a spring flowed out of it. The water probably shaped the rocks. This region is well known for its caves and various nature landmarks.

Kleptouza

Fri, 22 Aug 2008 15:04:00 +0300

Bulgaria’s biggest karst spring pumps out 1200 liters of cold mineral water each second. Its name is Kleptouza and the spring is situated in the town of Velingrad. Much of the spring’s water is used as tap water in Velingrad. The rest enters two lakes that empty into Maritsa and Chepinksa rivers. The first lake was constructed in 1933 using municipal funding. Pine forests in the surrounding region have become a favorite walk and leisure time place. A restaurant was set up, as well. Since April 2008, the park and the lakes became state property and have ever since been placed under the management of Velingrad municipality. An eco path starts near Kleptouza lake. To learn more about Velingrad, click here.

Kamenni Gubi Stone Phenomenon

Thu, 21 Aug 2008 12:55:00 +0300

A strange natural phenomenon carrying the name Kamenni Gubi (rock mushrooms) can be seen on the road between Kurdzhali and Haskovo, one km away from the village of Beli Plast. Reaching the area, an amazing view will appear before your eyes. Giant rocks, looking like mushrooms look as if they have ‘grown’ in a large field. Each rock phenomenon is nearly two m high. The ‘stem’ is shaded in pink because of a specific mineral. Another mineral gives the mushroom slightly green nuance. Black and grey spots can be noticed because of some other rock components. The mushrooms formed long time ago, during the Paleogenic era. Underwater volcanic activity led to their appearance. Once water withdrew, rain, sun and wind gave the rocks their final shape. The area was named a nature landmark in 1947. Other interesting landmarks in the region...

Ivan Vazov's Memorial House in Sopot

Wed, 20 Aug 2008 12:19:00 +0300

The birth house of Bulgarian writer Ivan Vazov in the town of Sopot appeared in the 17th century. Unfortunately, the original building was destroyed during an Ottoman assault in 1877. A decision for the renovation of the house was taken in 1920. A museum was to be set up inside. Sofia ethnographic museum’s director decided to supervise the process. The house was renovated almost entirely in its original state based on the memories of Vazov’s brothers and sister. Some of his works were used in the process, as well. One of the rooms hosts the barber shop of Hadzhi Ahil, as described in one of Vazov’s stories. The human figures look nearly alive and take visitors back to old times. The museum opened doors on June 6 1935. In 1964, the memorial house was named a monument of culture of national importance. It preserves many of Vazov’s...

Preslav

Thu, 10 Jul 2008 16:03:00 +0300

According to evidence, Veliki Preslav existed initially as a Thracian settlement but its name is unknown. In the dawn of the Bulgarian state, mainly Slavic tribes lived in the region. This probably gave Veliki Preslav its name. In the middle of the 9th century, the town was fortified and turned into a military and strategic center. After Bulgarians accepted Christianity, Preslav saw the construction of many churches. The city gained even more importance when it became Bulgarian capital in 893. To cut away the pagan past, tsar Simeon decided to move the capital from Pliska to Preslav. Preslav’s museum protects a rich collection of artifacts, among which the Preslav gold treasure, a ceramic icon and the biggest lead seals collection in the world. Remains of several buildings like the Preslav palace, churches, a monastery and a basilica can be seen there. Visitors...

Madara Archaeology Preserve

Thu, 10 Jul 2008 15:57:00 +0300

The Madara horseman is a rock relief carved 23 meters up in the cliffs of the Madara plateau. It is situated only a kilometer and a half away from the village of Madara and 20 km away from the town of Shoumen. A full-size horseman can be seen in the rocks. An eagle and a dog accompany the man, while a speared lion has been carved in front of him. Each of the images is full of symbolism. The entire work presents a Bulgarian ruler, triumphant over his enemies. UNESCO included the Madara horseman in its World Heritage List. During the summer, the horseman can be observed from 8 am to 7 pm and in the winter – from 8 am to 5 pm. To learn more about it, click here.

Pliska and the Big Basilica

Thu, 10 Jul 2008 15:44:00 +0300

The town of Pliska was the first Bulgarian capital, established right after the country’s foundation in 681. It acted as a political center and functioned as a cultural and economic capital. Pliska maintained its function until the capital was moved to Veliki Preslav in 893. Archaeologists and historians believe that the town was constructed over an old Slavic settlement. The remains of the ancient Pliska tell a lot about Bulgaria and its past developments. Ruins show that the capital covered an area of 23 sq km. Since it was constructed in a valley and lacked natural defense, Pliska had three fortification systems. A big ditch surrounded the city. The second defense line represented a thick wall. Another wall protected the city from inside. The big basilica, situated in the outer city, is the biggest on the Balkans. The dimensions of 100 by 30 m make it one of the...

Zlatograd

Thu, 10 Jul 2008 12:04:00 +0300

The beautiful town of Zlatograd is hidden in the heart of the Rhodope Mountain, close to the border with Greece. Zlatograd’s ethnographic complex is one of the town’s prides, alongside its breathtaking nature and rich historic background. The complex is unique, since a single private initiative led to its creation. A private company provided the funds in 2001. Zlatograd’s complex is similar to Etur in Gabrovo. The complex is situated in the central part of the town and is easily accessible. Its atmosphere makes visitors forget about the present time and go back in history. More information is available in the Ethnographic museum and Vodenitsata guest house. To learn about Zlatograd in detail, click here.

Snezhanka Peak

Thu, 10 Jul 2008 11:56:00 +0300

Snezhanka peak is situated in the Rhodope Mountains, 15 km away from the town of Smolyan. The peak is 1926 m high. It features a television tower that increases its height to 2082 m. Pamporovo winter resorts is situated in the foot of the peak. Several ski tracks and winter sports facilities go down from Snezhanka. The television tower has a café that offers wonderful view of the Rhodope region. The Aegean Sea can be seen during fair weather. Snezhanka peak is one of the 100 national tourist sites. Accommodation Sites - Grand Hotel Murgavets

Rila and Mousala Peak

Thu, 10 Jul 2008 10:52:00 +0300

Mousala is the tallest peak in Bulgaria, as well as on the Balkans. The tallest peak of Rila Mountain brags the impressive 2925 m of height. The Greek Olympus peak is only a few meters shorter. According to a joke, Greeks could not take it and one night secretly piled stones on the peak but it never became as tall as Mousala. Mousala is a word of Ottoman origin and signifies Way to God or Mountain of God. Both translations signify that the place was seen as one of spiritual importance. To learn more about Mousala and the paths that you can use to reach the peak, click here.

Sedemte Prestola Monastery

Thu, 10 Jul 2008 10:41:00 +0300

The picturesque valley of Gabrovska River hides deep in the heart of middle Stara Planina Mountain. This divine piece of Bulgarian land protects Sedetme Prestola monastery, a wonderful spot for spiritual recovery and rest. Sedemte Prestola monastery is situated 86 km away from Sofia and 50 km away from the town of Vratsa. Officially, the monastery carries the name Sveta Bogoroditsa but only few people know it as such. Historians believe it appeared during the Second Bulgarian Kingdom. According to the legend, seven brothers founded the monastery and each one of them established a village in the region. To learn more about the monastery, click here.

Vitosha Mountain and Cherni Vruh

Thu, 10 Jul 2008 10:06:00 +0300

Cherni Vruh is Vitosha Mountain’s highest point, impressive with its 2290 m. The peak has been included among the 100 national tourist sites. To reach the peak, you can use one of the following routes. Option A includes walking from Zlatnite Mostove to Koumata cabin. From there, you start the actual climb to the peak. The entire hike lasts three hours and a half. Option B involves a longer hike, starting from the village of Yarlovo, through Siva Gramada peak. The walk lasts nearly five hours. Naturally, other options are available if the ones already mentioned failed inspiring you to pack your bags and start climbing. Cherni Vruh is accessible from Aleko (an hour and a half of walking) Tintiava hut (three hours and a half), Edelweiss hut (two hours and half) and Chouipetlovo village (four hours and a half). Research the paths in advance since marks are sometimes...

Starosel Complex

Thu, 10 Jul 2008 09:57:00 +0300

A unique Thracian temple and a mausoleum were discovered in 2000 in the vicinity of Starosel village, near Hissarya. It was built in the 5th century BC. Elements typical for ancient Greek temples can be observed in its architecture. According to researchers, the palace belonged to Thracian king Sitalk from the Odrisi tribe. One of a kind fortified facility protected the hill. Three staircases were found, a front one made of big stone blocs and two small side staircases. The stairs lead to a 15 m long hallway going to a façade with embossment decorations. Detailed information about the Starosel complex is available here.

Tourism Sites in Zheravna

Wed, 09 Jul 2008 16:36:00 +0300

Architecture and History Preserve Zheravna is situated 15 km away from the town of Kotel and 45 km away from Sliven. The village has been named an architecture preserve. It consists of more than 150 well-preserved houses that date back to the Bulgarian revival period. Some of the constructions are more than 300 years old. Typically, the houses are made of timber on stone foundations. Some of the bigger houses have two floors. St. Nikolai church also features among the must-sees. The church houses a permanent icons exhibition. To learn more about Zheravna, click here. Yordan Yovkov’s Memorial House Zheravna is the birthplace of Bulgarian writer Yordan Yovkiv. His house, situated on Goliamoto Burdo square, has been turned into a museum. The collection includes documents, manuscripts and photos depicting Yovkov’s life. The yard features a...

Elhovo Ethnographic Museum

Wed, 09 Jul 2008 16:18:00 +0300

Elhovo’s ethnographic museum displayed its first collection in 1958. Since most of the objects had ethnographic character, the museum specialized in that sphere. Later, two buildings were constructed for the needs of the museum. The current exposition was presented in 1971. Today, the museum features nearly 22 000 objects separated in several groups like agriculture and breeding, villages and homes, transport, hunting and fishing, clothing, jewelry, crafts and art. Collections are displayed in four halls of total area 250 sq m. Apart from documents and artifacts, the museum possesses 3000 books, connected to the history and development of the Ehlovo region. The museum is situated on 4 Shipka street. It welcomes visitors each week day from 8 to midday and from 1 pm to 5 pm. To visit on Saturday and Sunday you need to call in advance.

Tourism Sites in Yambol

Wed, 09 Jul 2008 15:22:00 +0300

History Museum Yambol’s history museum has nearly 100 000 exhibition items that have been collected over the past 100 years. The first collection was presented in 1886 and the museum exists as a separate facility since 1953. Foreign funding was used so that the museum got computer technology and all of its collections were described and categorized in online database. The museum has is restoration and conservation studio. New items are added to the collections each day. Many artifacts come from the ancient town of Kabile and the settlement mound in the village of Drama. To visit the museum, go to 2 Bialo More street. It works each week day from 8 am to midday and from 1 pm to 5 pm. Saturday and Sunday visits require an appointment in advance. More information about Yambol is available here. Kabile Ancient Settlement The remains of the ancient settlement...

Tourism Sites in Shoumen

Wed, 09 Jul 2008 12:25:00 +0300

History Museum Shoumen’s history museum was created in 1904 but museum collections have been made in the town since 1857. The museum features one of the richest collections in the country. Objects exceed 150 000 and the eight halls display only 10 percent of them. An entire Thracian tomb can be seen there. This is the only tomb in Bulgaria that has been displayed inside a museum. The discovery was made in the town of Smiadovo and dates back to the 4th century BC. Icons, coins and metal works of art can be seen in Shoumen’s museum, as well. Apart from the permanent exhibitions, the museum often hosts other events. It has a photo lab and a restoration studio. The museum is situated on 17 Slavianski boulevard. Its working time is every week day from 9 am to 5 pm during the winter and from 9 am to 6 pm during the summer. Shoumen Fortress The remains...

Rozhdestvo Hristovo Church and Monument

Tue, 08 Jul 2008 16:50:00 +0300

Rozhdestvo Hristovo church in the town of Shipka is part of the complex known as Shipchenski monastery. The complex includes the church, living premises and an ecclesiastical school. The complex is situated in the foot of St. Nikola peak, where Bulgarian and Russian soldiers fought for independence in 1877 and 1878. Church construction took place between 1882 and 1902. The mother of general Skobelev, Olga Skobeleva, gave the idea for the complex construction. She organized a committee that managed the entire process. Russian architects planned the church and it displays the typical 17th century Russian style. The church has three altars and golden domes. The bell tower houses 17 bells. The church is open for visits each day from 8.30 am to 5.30 pm.

Tourism Sites in Kazanluk

Tue, 08 Jul 2008 16:07:00 +0300

Choudmir Memorial House The home of well-known Bulgarian writer and painter Choudomir became a museum in 1968, only one year after his death. Choudomir’s real name is Dimitur Chorbadzhiyski. He received the nickname in his youth and decided to use it as his artistic name. The writer was born in the region of Stara Zagora but settled in Kazanluk after World War I. More than 15 000 objects have been put on display in the museum. Some of the treasures that the memorial house protects include original manuscripts, sketches, letters and documents. Since Choudomir was both writer and painter, the museum is one of a kind in the country, displaying alongside literary works and works of art. It welcomes visitors each week day from 9 am to 5.30 pm. The address is 6 Trapezitsa street. Kazanluk Tomb Kazanluk Tomb is the first Bulgarian site included in the UNESCO World...

Tourism Sites in Stara Zagora

Tue, 08 Jul 2008 15:24:00 +0300

Neolithic Dwellings Museum The Neolithic Dwellings Museum of Stara Zagora presents the two best preserved such dwellings in Europe. They date back to the 6th millennium BC. Archaeologists believe that the village, where the dwellings were situated, was burned down. As a result, many artifacts were preserved. The two dwellings were situated alongside each other and shared a ceiling. Both were made of singe chambers. Walls were made of wood and isolated via layers of hay and clay. Hay was used in the making of the ceilings. Upon the discovery, archaeologists found 80 to 120 clay dishes in each dwelling. Remains of crops were preserved in some dishes. These discoveries demonstrate the level to which agriculture was developed in the area. To visit the museum, go to 20 Armeiska street. It welcomes visitors each day apart from Sunday and Monday, from 8.30 to midday and from...

Landmarks in the West Rhodopes

Tue, 08 Jul 2008 14:05:00 +0300

Goliam Pelerik Peak Rhodope Mountain’s highest peak is called Goliam Pelerik. It is 2191 m high and is situated 19 km away from the town of Smolyan. It is easily accessible but the peak itself houses a military facility and access is restricted. Cars can reach a hut situated below the peak, carrying the same name. A beautiful meadow leads to the military facility. Making photos and videos is also forbidden. Choudnite Mostove Choudnite Mostove (the wonder bridges) is a rock phenomenon that formed on the bank of Erkiupria River. Erosion carved the rocks and water shaped a cave. Its ceiling probably collapsed during an earthquake and formed the rock phenomenon. The two massive rock bridges are situated 200 meters away from each other. To see this natural carving, you need to go to the West Rhodopes. The altitude is 1450 m and the cliffs are situated right below...

Tourism Sites in the Region of Smolyan

Tue, 08 Jul 2008 12:51:00 +0300

History Museum Smolyan’s history museum is the biggest in the mid-Rhodope region. The building was specially constructed and has area of 2000 sq m. Collections include over 150 000 exhibition items, some of which dating back to the late Paleolithic period. The museum was founded in 1935. Its collections trace the history of the town and the region from ancient times to present day. Items have been separated according to topics like prehistory, Thracians, middle ages and ethnography. Ancient traditions, specifically koukeri, have been presented as well. If you call in advance, the museum can organize traditional shows. It welcomes visitors each day apart from Monday from 9 am to midday and from 1 pm to 5 pm. To learn more about Smolyan, click here. Ouhlovitsa Cave This is one of the oldest caves in Smolyan region. Ouhlovitsa was discovered in 1967. Its length is...

Tourism Sites in Skravena

Mon, 07 Jul 2008 17:04:00 +0300

St. Nikolai Monastery Skravena’s monastery St. Nikolai is situated two km north of the village and the building is seen while traveling on international road E-79. Much of the monastery’s history remains unknown. Between 1939 and 1941 archaeologists explored the area and discovered the foundations of the old monastery. It was supposedly constructed during the reign of tsar Petur over the remains of a pagan sanctuary and was destroyed during the Ottoman reign. In 1944, a nun named Liudmila arrived in the area. She said that St. Nikolai appeared in her dreams and told her to become a nun. In the coming years, the nun collected funds and managed the construction of the monastery over the remains of the old one. Monks no longer live in the monastery but it is open for visits. Preobrazhenie Gospodme Monastery The monastery is situated four km north of...

Botevgrad's Clock Tower

Mon, 07 Jul 2008 16:07:00 +0300

Botevgrad’s clock tower is the town’s symbol. Constructed between 1862 and 1864, the tower is nearly 30 meters high. The craftsman responsible for the construction was Vouno Markov but the name of the architect is unknown. Years ago, with the coming of an exact hour, a small tower window opened and a human figure appeared from the aperture. This amazed locals and the tower was seen as one of Botevgrad’s biggest attractions. A new mechanism was placed to keep the clock running. The original is preserved in Botevgrad’s museum. The tower is one of the 100 national tourist sites.

Tourism Sites in Klisoura

Mon, 07 Jul 2008 12:50:00 +0300

Klisoura is a picturesque town situated between Stara Planina and Sredna Gora mountains. It is 25 km away from the town of Koprivshtitsa and 100 km away from Sofia. The town is known for its revolutionary activities, especially during the April Uprising in 1876. The brave opposition of locals led to conflagrations and the destruction of the town. In 1926, Klisoura’s community center was named a monument to mark 50 years since the uprising. Locals made donations for the construction of the center. Funds were collected over a period of 30 years. Upon its opening, the community center turned into a vital place for culture development. Today, the building houses Klisoura’s history museum. Some of the most valuable items are a cherry-tree cannon and a bell that signaled the beginning of the April Uprising on April 20 1876. The museum has an art gallery that...

Bogdan Peak

Mon, 07 Jul 2008 11:51:00 +0300

Bogdan peak, also known as Goliam Bogdan (the big Bogdan) is the highest one in Sredna Gora Mountain. Its height is 1604 m. The peak was named after a revolutionary leader, who was active in the area. The peak is situated in Sofia region and was listed among the 100 national tourist sites. Dense forests surround the peak and its southern slope houses Detelinova cave. Several rivers spring from the peak among which Kriva Reka, Louda, Yana and Piasuchnik. Reaching the peak is relatively easy. The most popular path starts in Koprivshtitsa and the walk lasts three hours. Another starting point is the town of Strelcha. Make sure you take warm clothes since Sredna Gora is known for the cold weather regardless of season. To learn more about Sredna Gora, click here.

Tourism Sites in Dimitrovgrad

Mon, 07 Jul 2008 11:11:00 +0300

History Museum Dimitrovgrad’s history museum was created in 1951, soon after the town was set up. It initially functioned as a museum of the youth socialist movement. A collection was added to describe the history of the town and the region. Today, the museum has over 48 000 artifacts, many of which connected to the ethnography of the region. The museum welcomes visitors each day from 9 am to midday and from 1.30 to 5 pm. To visit the museum on Saturday and Sunday, you need to call and make an appointment in advance. Museum entry is free of charge. Penio Penev Memorial House Three villages combined in 1947 to form the town of Dimitrovgrad. Many people from various parts of the country fell in love with the region and decided to settle there. Poet Penio Penev was one of them. Penev was born in Sevlievo. He participated in Dimitrovgrad construction from 1947...

Sreburna Preserve

Fri, 04 Jul 2008 13:21:00 +0300

Nearly 40 types of mammals, 21 types of amphibians and reptiles and 10 types of fish inhabit Sreburna, one of the best known preserves in Bulgaria. Sreburna is situated 16 km west of the town of Silistra. The preserve includes a lake carrying the same name and the surrounding territories. Several legends explain the name of the preserve. The most believable story connects it to the site of the lake during full moon. Observed then, the water looks like a large silver plate (srebro means silver in Bulgarian). The diversity of bird species is the biggest Sreburna treasure. More than 180 species nest there, a big number of which endangered or very rare. Fifty-eight species have been included in the Bulgarian Red Book of endangered species. A type of pelican and of heron nest only in Sreburna. In 1975, Sreburna was named a humid region of international importance. In 1983, it...

Sofia Synagogue

Thu, 03 Jul 2008 14:54:00 +0300

Sofia synagogue is the biggest in Bulgaria and third biggest in Europe after those in Budapest and Amsterdam. Construction took place in 1909 at the location of an old synagogue. The style followed is Spanish-Mauritian and the synagogue resembles one in Vienna that was destroyed during a Nazi assault. The synagogue has capacity of 1300 people and its chandelier is the biggest in the country and weights nearly two tons. Recently, the synagogue underwent major renovation. Funds came from Israel, as well as from private donations. Since May 1992, a European history museum functions alongside the synagogue. It expands the collection named The Saving of Bulgarian Jews 1941-1944. The museum aims to discover, study and preserve artifacts, photos and documents connected to the Jewish culture and historic heritage. Two permanent expositions depict Jewish communities in Bulgaria...

Sofia Zoo

Thu, 03 Jul 2008 12:10:00 +0300

Sofia’s zoo is the biggest in the country. A number of exotic bird and animal species can be seen. Prince Ferdinand gave the idea for the zoo’s creation in 1888. He was known for his interest in natural science. Several animals were initially kept in the yard of the royal residence. Once the collection increased by two bears, the place became unsuitable. The prince moved the animal park to the former botanical garden of the palace. It was situated outside Sofia at the time, in the area that is today located between Sofia University and Gourko street. Ferdinand appointed the palace hunter as zoo manager. The new manager worked nearly 40 years to expand the park. Over the coming years, the number of animals grew. Managers were unsatisfied with the presence of local species only. Soon, the zoo got exotic birds and animals. The location of the park...

National Archaeology Museum

Thu, 03 Jul 2008 11:21:00 +0300

The National Institute of Archaeology and Museum is the biggest institution of its kind in Bulgaria. Its collections are placed in one of the oldest mosques in Sofia, Bouiuk Dzhamia (the big mosque). The museum controls and coordinates all excavation works in the country. Mahmoud Pasha oversaw the construction of the building in the 15th century. The construction is unique since it happens to be the oldest preserved building in Sofia. The museum collections were placed there in 1892. Many specialists said that the mosque is unsuitable for the preservation of artifacts because of the humidity and small area. The building underwent several renovations. Construction of a new museum building started in the beginning of the 20th century, but later the place was selected as the new location of the Bulgarian National Bank. In 1944, the museum experienced serious damage because of...

Tourism Sites in Kalofer

Thu, 03 Jul 2008 11:02:00 +0300

The house of Bulgarian poet and revolutionary Hristo Botev was destroyed during a fire in the town of Kalofer in 1877. It underwent renovation following the memories of the poet’s brother, Kiril Botev, and opened doors as a museum in 1944. The museum is situated on 5 Botev street and the complex includes the house, exhibition halls a monument of Botev and a monument of his mother, Ivanka Boteva. Botev’s memorial house was named monument of culture of national importance. The authentic interior of the house has been recreated. An exhibition hall constructed in 1973 protects his personal belongings, letters and photos. Visitors are welcome each day from 8 am to midday and from 1.30 pm to 5.30 pm. For more information about the memorial house click here and to learn more about Kalofer click here.

National Museum of Natural Science

Wed, 02 Jul 2008 16:30:00 +0300

The National Museum of Natural Science is considered the one with richest collection on the Balkans. It came into existence more than a century ago, under the guidance of prince Ferdinand who had special liking for natural science. Since 1889, the collection grew to cover all natural areas inside Bulgaria and on a global scale. More than 400 exhibition items have been placed inside the museum. The number of insects presented exceeds tens of thousands, the number of bird species is 1200. The collection includes many amphibians and reptiles. A special section preserves fossils. Preserved plants and minerals describe even further Bulgaria’s nature. The museum works with international institutions and exchanges exhibition items and experience. To visit the museum, go to Sofia’s 1 Tsar Osvoboditel boulevard. It works each day from 10 am to 6 pm.

100 National Tourism Sites: Vassil Levski's Memorial House

Wed, 02 Jul 2008 15:47:00 +0300

Bulgarian revolutionary Vassil Levski was born on July 18 1837 in the town of Karlovo. His home was turned into a museum that keeps the memory of Levski alive until present day. The house is situated in the western part of Kalrovo, on the road to Sopot. The memorial house opened in 1937, after it underwent complete renovation. Important artifacts, documents and works of art are preserved there. The house quickly turned into one of the most popular memorial complexes in the country. Today, the complex has been expanded. Apart from Levski’s birth house, it includes exhibition halls, souvenir booths and a chapel where locks of the revolutionary’s hair have been preserved. Visitors can learn more about Levski each day from 8.30 am to 1 pm and from 2 pm to 5 pm. The museum is situated on 57 Gen. Kartsov street. For more information, call 0335/ 934 89. To...

Earth and Man National Museum

Wed, 02 Jul 2008 11:43:00 +0300

Earth and Man National Museum is a state institution created through the use of donations. The museum is housed in a beautiful building from the end of the 19th century that has been named a monument of culture. It is the national mineral museum and happens to be among the biggest in the world. The museum was created in 1986 and welcomed its first visitors in 1987. Museum collections include over 20 000 items. They have been organized in groups like giant crystals, the minerals in Bulgaria, precious stones. Other collections present the industrial use of minerals and Bulgaria’s natural resources. A video hall, labs, a library and a shop function alongside the museum. The museum hosts exhibitions and events like seminars, conferences and fairs. Often, the museum organizes cultural and nature preservation events. Earth and Man National Museum is situated on...

Sueva Doupka Cave

Wed, 02 Jul 2008 11:08:00 +0300

It carries the name Underground Pearl because of the beauty of its cave formations. Sueva Doupka cave is situated close to Yablanitsa, Lovech region. During exploration works, scientists found pottery and Roman coins in the first cave chamber. Sueva Doupka was named natural landmark in 1963 and became accessible for tourists in 1967. Its length is 210 meters and according to research, the cave formed 11 million years ago. Five chambers make up the cave. Chambers have been named after some of the notable formations inside them. Koupena has a 3.5 m high stalagmite that resembles a pile of hay (koupa means pile in Bulgarian). Beliat Zamuk (the white castle) and Cosmos chambers are also known for their beautiful interior. The chamber called Harmanut amazes with acoustics and several choirs have used it to make music records. Sueva Doupka is open for visits each day from 9...

Bulgarian Academy of Sciences Ethnographic Museum

Wed, 02 Jul 2008 11:03:00 +0300

The ethnographic museum of the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences (BAS) shares a building with the National Art Gallery. Both are situated in the former royal palace in Sofia. In 1892, the museum was created as a part of the national museum. It became an independent institution in 1906. BAS created an ethnographic institute in 1947 and two years later it merged with the museum. The museum was considered the richest on the Balkans in the 20s of the 20th century. Today, it guards more than 3000 objects, over 5000 old photos and 100 000 negatives. Its library includes nearly 25 000 copies, some of which unique. Information gathering and preservation are the main tasks of the museum. Its collections describe Bulgarian culture, lifestyle, crafts, agriculture, folklore, architecture, medicine and traditions. To visit the museum, go to 1 Batenberg square. Visitors can examine its...

National Art Gallery

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 16:46:00 +0300

The National Art Gallery is hosted in the former royal palace in Sofia. Before it became a residence, the building acted as an Ottoman administrative center and a residence of the local Ottoman ruler. Sofia’s deputy mayor suggested the creation of the gallery in 1944. Several hundred works of art were collected. Today, the gallery has more than 50 000 works of art. The collection traces Bulgarian painting styles from the revival period to the 50s of the 20th century. Works of Zahari Zograph, Stanislav Dospevski and Nikolai Pavlovich can be seen there. Contemporary authors also get their share. Symbolism, impressionism and modernism are represented through the works of Elena Karamihailova, Nikola Petrov and Nikola Marinov. The gallery has other paintings of famous artists like Vladimir Dimitrov – Maistora, Zlatiu Boiadzhiev, Zhorzh Papazov and Dechko...

National Palace of Culture

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 15:09:00 +0300

The National Palace of Culture (NDK) is one of Sofia’s symbols. It is actually a multifunctional complex that can host exhibitions, concerts, fairs, conferences, press conferences and other events. Most people immediately recognize the massive construction that is eight floors high. Three additional levels are available underground. NDK has 13 halls that can accommodate 8000 people. Hall 1 is the biggest and has capacity of 4000 people. The foyers have total area of 15 000 sq m and are suitable for exhibitions and fairs. NDK’s construction took place between 1978 and 1981. Until 1990 it carried the name of Liudmila Zhivkova, former culture minister and daughter of socialist-time leader Todor Zhivkov. According to the architect who planned NDK, the center has more metal in its construction than the Eiffel Tower. Today, NDK is the biggest congress center in...

National Museum of History

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 14:08:00 +0300

National Museum of History (NMH) is supposedly the one in the country that brags the richest collection. It was created in 1973. Until 2000, the collections were placed in Sofia’s court of justice and were then moved to Boyana. Today, the museum’s exhibition items exceed 650 000. The numerous collections trace Bulgarian history from ancient times. Original items and replicas of many treasures can be seen there. Some of the notable items include the Panagyurishte treasure, as well as the treasures from Rogozen, Letnitsa and Douvanlii. A replica of the gold Malaia Pereshchepina treasure can also be examined. Documents photos and authentic objects depict Bulgarian history. The modern history section includes clothing and belongings of the Bulgarian royal family. Stone columns, monuments and other artifacts from the Greek, Roman and Byzantine periods have...

Sinite Kamuni and Karandila

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 11:55:00 +0300

Sinite Kamuni (the Blue Stones) Sinite Kamuni is a park in the eastern part of Stara Planina Mountain, to the north of the town of Sliven. The name comes from the massive cliffs colored in blue that can be seen from the town. A specific moss covers the rocks and gives them the unusual color. Depending on the season and the weather, the moss changes its color from blue to grey and green. Bulgarka peak is the highest point of the park with its 1181 m. It is the highest peak of eastern Stara Planina. Many tourists like to conquer the height, since the peak is easily accessible. Numerous bird species inhabit the region. Their number exceeds 145 and some of the species can be seen only there. Karandila Karandila is a region near Sliven, part of Sinite Kamuni park. The area is known for its numerous sports facilities, hotels and artificial lake, turning it into a local...

Tourism Sites in the Region of Troyan

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 10:39:00 +0300

Natural Science Museum In 1956, biology teacher Ilia Iliev started working on a collection together with the natural science student club in the village of Cherni Osum. The group slowly built a collection of taxidermy specimens, including a number of species inhabiting Stara Planina Mountain. In 1977, the collection became part of the Lovech regional history museum. This is how Cherni Osum’s museum of natural science came into existence. It became an independent museum in 1992. Cherni Osum is situated 12 km away from Troyan. It hides in the part of Stara Planina called Troyanski Balkan, close to Central Balkan park and Steneto preserve. The museum collection includes more than 700 exhibition items. Taxidermy specimens have been placed in three halls, demonstrating the natural richness of the region. Other ways used to describe nature include photos and audio...

Tourism Sites in Sliven

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 10:31:00 +0300

Hadzhi Dimitur’s Memorial House Sliven’s oldest district, Kloutsohor, hosts the birth house of revolutionary leader Hadzhi Dimitur. The house has been restored and turned into a museum dedicated to his life and revolutionary activities. The collection also presents the life of another Sliven revolutionary, Stefan Karadzha. Apart from the personal belongings, the exposition includes numerous weapons. The house has been acting as a museum since 1935. Visitors can take a look at the room, where Hadzhi Dimitur was born. Other artifacts present the traditional Sliven lifestyle from the 11th century. The museum is situated on 2 Asenovska street and welcomes visitors from 9 am to midday and from 2 pm to 5 pm. During the summer, it is open each day and in the winter the museum is closed during the weekends. Textile Industry Museum The textile industry...

Tourism Sites in Toutrakan

Mon, 30 Jun 2008 16:01:00 +0300

Memorial Complex Military Tomb The complex is situated eight km away from Toutrakan. Each year, on the first Sunday of September, people honor there the Bulgarian and Romanian soldiers who died during the Toutrakan battle. The ceremony took place for the first time in 1917, one year after the battle. Today, the complex has a new chapel, a park and an alley where the names of all soldiers have been listed. To learn more about Toutrakan, click here. Ethnographic Museum Danube Fishing and Boat Construction museum is the place where you can examine details connected to the Toutrakan lifestyle. The life of locals was largely connected to fishing and the construction of vessels. The biggest part of the collection is dedicated to these two activities. Toutrakan was a fishing center alongside the Danube River. The town exported fish and fish products to numerous European...

Tourism Sites in Silistra

Mon, 30 Jun 2008 15:33:00 +0300

Medzhidi Tabia Medzhidi Tabia is a major fortress in the outskirts of Silistra, constructed between 1841 and 1853. The fortress is part of six fortifications that were combined in one protective system. It was constructed right before the Crimean War. Nearly 300 Bulgarian volunteers worked on it. The major construction shows all the skill and desire of these people. A German architect worked on the plans. The wall has hexagonal form and is up to eight m high. A deep ditch surrounds the fortification. Ottoman sultan Abdoul Medzhid noticed the construction and came to examine works in 1847. This is how the fortress got the name Medzhidi. The fortress was used both in the Crimean War and the Russo-Turkish War of 1877 and 1878. Medzhidi Tabia welcomes visitors each day from 8 am to 8 pm. To learn more about Silistra, click here. History Museum Silistra’s...

National Church Museum of the Holy Synod

Mon, 30 Jun 2008 15:23:00 +0300

The national church museum of the Holy Synod is situated in Sofia, in the theology department of Sofia University. After Bulgaria’s liberation in 1878, the Holy Synod started researching, gathering and preserving artifacts and information connected to Bulgaria’s Orthodox Church. The collection grew and became a museum in 1923. Today, the museum owns 11 000 icons, woodcarvings books and manuscripts. Part of the collection became subsidiary of the National Art Gallery and was placed in the crypt of Alexander Nevski Cathedral. The collection includes icons from the 10th to the 19th century, among which the oldest icon ever painted in Bulgaria. It represents St. George and St. Dimitur and dates back to the 10th century. Most of the icons belong to the Bulgarian revival period. Valuable books and manuscripts are also part of the museum’s record....

Tourism Sites in Rousse

Mon, 30 Jun 2008 13:55:00 +0300

Zahari Stoyanov’s Memorial House Zahari Stoyanov’s wife Anastasia Obretenova purchased this house after the death of her husband. The house is situated in Rousse, on 12 Pridounavski boulevard. Many personal belongings of the writer and revolutionary, as well as objects that belonged to the family, have been put on display there. The collection tells much about Bulgarian revolutionary struggles for national and religious independence. Some items found in Stoyanov’s tomb in 1978 have also been placed in the museum. The museum opened doors on March 3 1978, to honor 100 years since Bulgaria’s liberation. It works each day apart from Saturday and Sunday from 8.30 am to midday and from 1 pm to 5.30 pm. Pantheon of National Revival Heroes The pantheon was created in 1978 to honor 100 years since Bulgaria’s liberation. It is...

Tourism Sites in the Region of Isperih

Mon, 30 Jun 2008 12:11:00 +0300

History Museum Isperih’s history museum is among the 100 national tourist sites because of its rich collection. The museum was launched by volunteers and gradually turned into a serious institution. In 1973, an area of 180 sq m in the community center hosted the first permanent collection. The Razgrad museum decided to put the collection under its protection in 1975. In 1984, Isperih’s museum gained its independent status. Today, the exhibition includes over 30 000 objects. Its archaeology collection is richest and tells the story of the entire region. After World War I, many Bulgarians settled in the area. As a result, the ethnographic collection is diverse and presents folklore and traditions from various parts of the country. Modern history is also presented in an interesting manner. The museum is situated on 6 Tsar Osvoboditel street and...

Tourism Sites in the Region of Balchik

Fri, 27 Jun 2008 11:31:00 +0300

Architecture and Park Complex Dvoretsa Queen Maria of Romania was enchanted, once she saw the beauty of the Black Sea coast near the town of Balchik. During her reign, south Dobroudzha region was part of Romania. Construction of the royal residence lasted 11 years and the palace named Tihoto Gnezdo (the quiet nest) appeared in 1937. Balchik is situated 470 km away from Sofia, near Kavarna and the resort of Albena. The palace is situated two km southwest of Balchik. Maria had British origin but spent much of her childhood in Egypt. As a result, Tihoto Gnezdo combines oriental and western styles. The palace was constructed in a manner that provides for the privacy of guests. The chambers have been dispersed throughout the garden. One of the palace’s biggest prides is the botanical garden. Created in 1926, it carried the name Allah’s Garden. The...

Tourism Sites in Sopot

Wed, 25 Jun 2008 13:30:00 +0300

Vuvedenie Bogorodichno Monastery The monastery is situated near the center of Sopot. According to some historians, the nun Sousana founded it in 1665. Only a small chapel existed until that moment. Residential buildings were constructed near it. In 1877, most of the complex was burned down during an Ottoman assault. The church, some of the residential buildings and the hiding place of revolutionary Vassil Levski remained intact. The complex had its special studio, where books were copied in the past. Nuns also learned icon painting. Architecture is what makes the church and the monastery worth exploring. The church is halfway dug into the ground and resembles another unique sanctuary, the church in the village of Dobursko. Make sure you take a look at the wall painting from the 17th century that has been called the headless saints. Today, the monastery has been completely...

Tourism Sites in Peroushtitsa

Wed, 25 Jun 2008 10:55:00 +0300

Peroushtitsa is a small town, situated 20 km southwest of Plovdiv, in the foot of the Rhodope Mountains. The region near the town is the site where the ancient fortress Perestitsa was constructed. It dates back to the Second Bulgarian Kingdom. Other interesting landmarks in the area include the remains of the ancient city Dragovets and the Red Church. According to historians, Peroushtitsa is a town that developed from an ancient settlement carrying the name of Slavic god Peroun. The town is known for the participation of its residents in the April uprising in 1876. Peroushtitsa's history museum opened doors in 1955. It protects many artifacts that trace the history of the town and the region. Documents and objects that belonged to local revolutionaries can be seen as well. The museum works each day from 9 am to midday and from 2 pm to 5 pm.

Tourism Sites in Plovdiv

Tue, 24 Jun 2008 17:07:00 +0300

Ancient Theater The ancient theater is situated between Dzhambaz and Taksim Tepe. Emperor Trajan initiated the construction in the 2nd century. The amphitheater could accommodate between 5000 and 7000 spectators. An earthquake in the 4th century destroyed the facility. It has been reconstructed and today perfectly fits in Plovdiv’s cultural style. The theater hosts many concerts and festivals. Its remains were discovered in the 60s of the 20th century. It is part of Old Plovdiv architecture preserve. Several restaurants function nearby. All of them offer panoramic view that you can enjoy while having your meal. The amphitheater is open for visits from 9 am to 6 pm during the summer and from 9 am to 5 pm during the winter. Old Plovdiv Architecture Preserve The old part of Plovdiv preserves remains from various epochs. Revival period houses are most typical for...

Tourism Sites in Pleven

Tue, 24 Jun 2008 15:29:00 +0300

Chapel - Mausoleum St. Georgi Pobedonosets The chapel was constructed in 1907 to honor the victims of the Pleven siege among which 31 000 Russian and 7500 Romanian soldiers. Its crypt protects the remains of all killed soldiers. Famous Bulgarian painters worked on the chapel's icons. The chapel is open for visits from Tuesday to Saturday from 9 am to midday and from 1 pm to 8 pm. Pleven Epopee Panorama It is situated in the Skobelev park museum. The epopee was set up to honor 100 years since the liberation of Pleven. The architecture of the monument is full of symbolic messages. Its support represents the weapons that saved Pleven from a siege. Four horizontal rings carry the support. Three symbolize assaults and the three mounds, where battles took place. The fourth ring symbolizes Pleven' siege. Visitors are welcome each day from 9 am to 5 pm. Elevators...

Erma River's Gorge

Tue, 24 Jun 2008 14:35:00 +0300

Erma River flows on the territory of Serbia and Bulgaria. It forms its unique gorge in Bulgaria. Cliffs rise high above the ground and the passage is only 10 m wide. The gorge is situated four km away northeast of the town of Trun. An asphalt road leads from the town to the landmark. The gorge has been included among the 100 national tourist sites, since the view is breathtaking. In its narrowest part, the gorge is 10 m wide. An eco path takes visitors to the gorge and the region attracts many climbers. Erma hut is situated nearby. The village of Loznitsa is also situated in the region. From there, you can reach Roui peak.

Tourism Sites in Batak

Mon, 23 Jun 2008 13:34:00 +0300

Batak's history museum brags a rich collection of items, among which documents and authentic artifacts from various time periods. The museum was created in 1956. Items have been divided in several collections among which archeology, Bulgarian history from the 15th to the 19th century, ethnography and modern history. A big collection focuses on Batak's participation in the April uprising. During the revolt, several hundred Batak residents were killed and the settlement was burned down. The museum is open each day from 8.30 am to 5 pm during the summer. It welcomes visitors from 8 am to midday and from 1 pm to 5 pm during the winter. Batak has several other landmarks worth taking a look at. The church Sveta Nedelia is a historic landmark of national importance. It was built in 1813. During the April uprising, women, children and elderly people hid there but Ottoman...

Tourism Sites in Panagyurishte

Mon, 23 Jun 2008 12:05:00 +0300

Oborishte Region The historic region called Oborishte is situated 8 km away from Panagyurishiste. The first Bulgarian national assembly gathered there between April 14 and 16 1876 under the guidance of revolutionary Georgi Benkovski. During the assembly, revolutionaries decided on the so called April uprising. Today the area hosts a monument and the name of all assembly participants have been carved in the stone. Each year on May 1 and 2, Bulgarians honor revolutionaries in this area. Raina Kniaginia’s Memorial House Raina Kniaginia’s memorial house is one of the most visited museums in the country. It is situated in Panagyurishiste. The house itself is very old. It now hosts an exposition, telling the story of the teacher, who turned into a revolutionary. Raina herself has been buried in the yard of her house. The museum is open each day from 9 am...

Tourism Sites in Pazardzhik

Mon, 23 Jun 2008 11:32:00 +0300

St. Bogoroditsa Church St. Bogoroditsa cathedral in the town of Pazardzhik is the biggest revival period church in the country. It was built in 1837 and according to the legend, the Ottoman ruler allowed locals to build a church only if it was lower than a mosque. Part of the church has been dug into the ground to meet the condition. The ruler was impressed with the wit of locals and allowed the construction. The church has been named a monument of culture of national importance because of its ornate decorations. The iconostasis has been placed under UNESO protection. It is the work of carvers from the Debursko-miashko school. One of a kind wall paintings decorate the inside. Some of the icons date back to 1837. History Museum Pazardzhik’s regional history museum was created in 1911. It happens to be one of the oldest museums in the country. A restoration...

Tourism Sites in the Region of Berkovitsa

Mon, 23 Jun 2008 10:26:00 +0300

Ethnographic Museum Berkovitsa’s ethnographic museum is situated in a revival-period house from the 19th century. The building kept its original looks and only underwent minor renovation works. Visitors will certainly notice the beautiful carvings on its doors and the curious manner in which rooms are heated. The ethnographic museum was moved there in 1992. The collection presents the lifestyle and traditions of locals. Items have been organized in various groups among which clothing, wooden and metal objects, ceramics and jewellery. The number of all artifacts exceeds 14 000. The clothing and tapestry collections are most impressive. To visit the museum, go to 5 Ivan Vazov street. It is open each day from 8 am to midday and from 2 pm to 5 pm during the summer. To visit during the winter, you need to call in advance. Kom Peak Kom peak is situated in the western...

Tourism Sites in Teteven

Thu, 19 Jun 2008 15:41:00 +0300

Teteven's history museum was created in 1932 and initially functioned as a memorial house. Donations were used to create the landmark, honoring Teteven residents, who died in Bulgaria's liberation struggles. A small collection was hosted in the building upon the opening of the museum. In 1974, the building was expanded just like the exposition. Items today have been divided in archeology, ethnographic and revival sections. They trace Teteven's story from ancient times until it gained its independence. The first collection shows ancient artifacts and describes the culture and life of Thracians. Crafts are demonstrated through the second museum section and the third collection is made up of documents and objects from various revolts. The museum is located on Sava Mladenov square. It is open from 9 am to midday and from 2 pm to 5 pm during the summer. The work...

Tourism Sites in Lovech

Thu, 19 Jun 2008 14:32:00 +0300

Kukrinsko Hanche Kukrinskoto hanche (inn) is the place where Bulgarian revolutionary Vassil Levski was captured. It is situated in the village of Kukrina, 17 km away from Lovech. In December 1872, Levski was traveling to Sofia and decided to take a break there. Soon after, the inn was abandoned. It was destroyed in a fire in the end of the 19th century. It was renovated and a museum opened there on May 10 1931. Renovation took place using old photos and the looks of the inn very much resemble the original building. The museum functions each day apart from Monday and Tuesday, from 8 am to midday and from 1 pm to 5 pm. Vassil Levski’s Museum Levski’s museum in Lovech is situated in the old district Varosha. Collections present revolutionary struggles, as well as the life of Levski and his followers. The museum brags the hugest collection of...

Skakavitsa Hut and the Seven Rila Lakes

Thu, 19 Jun 2008 12:15:00 +0300

Skakavitsa Hut Skakavitsa hut is situated in Skakavisha valley, southwestern Rila Mountain. It is a huge, three-storey building that offers accommodation. Rooms have two, three and four beds. The hut has a restaurant, a kitchen and a TV room. A ski track is situated nearby. A walk from several starting points will take you to Skakavitsa. The beginning points of the trip include Zeleni Preslap region, Sapareva Banya and Panichishte. Several other tracks start from the hut. From Skakavitsa, you can reach the Rila lakes, as well as Rila Monastery and the huts Pionerska, Ivan Vazov and Maliovitsa. Skakavishki waterfall is also situated nearby. The Seven Rila Lakes This group of seven lakes has glacial origin and is situated in the northwestern part of Rila Mountain. Small springs connect the lakes of the group. Their altitude varies from 2100 to 2500 m. The Rila lakes happen to...

Architecture and History Preserve Bozhentsi

Thu, 19 Jun 2008 11:31:00 +0300

Many centuries ago, the boyar Bozhana ran away from the capital of Veliko Turnovo and settled with her brothers and sons in the region of middle Stara Planina Mountain. The village of Bozhentsi was named after her. Bozhentsi is situated 15 km away from Gabrovo and slightly over 200 km away from Sofia. Rich boyars, who ran away from Turnovo after an Ottoman invasion settled there. As a result, all houses are big and richly decorated. All have typical terraces, stone slate roofs and woodcarvings. In 1964, Bozhentsi was named an architecture and historic preserve. The village has 100 houses aged between 100 and 250 years and is under UNESCO protection. Two of the old houses have been turned into museums. They keep inside items from the 18th and 19th centuries. Photos, family trees and temporary exhibitions can also be seen there. Some of the houses offer accommodation in...

Tourism Sites in Gabrovo - Etura

Thu, 19 Jun 2008 11:13:00 +0300

If you want to go back in time and to explore Bulgarian crafts in the region of Gabrovo, visit Etura. The complex recreates the craftsmen district of Gabrovo. Some of the buildings there are authentic and have only been renovated. Skilled craftsmen demonstrate more than 10 crafts among which the production of copper utensils, pottery, icon painting, cloth production and woodcarving. You can watch, ask questions and examine the authentic tools used in the production. Items are offered on sale and the prices are moderate. Apart from the workshops, Etura has its water facilities part. Real-size facilities, all functioning properly, can be seen. Etura has several permanent exhibitions among which lifestyle from the 19th and early 20th century, national costumes, craftsmen houses. Additional exhibitions and activities like traditional demonstrations and fairs are organized....

Rouen Peak

Mon, 16 Jun 2008 14:52:00 +0300

Only a quarter of the territory of Osogovo Mountain is situated inside Bulgaria. Its highest peak, Rouen happens to be located exactly in this region. The peak brags its 2251 meters of height and ranks fifth in Bulgaria after Mousala, Vihren, Botev and Cherni Vruh. Rouen is one of the 100 national tourist sites. You can reach it walking from Trite Bouki or Osogovo huts. Both mountain walks last nearly three hours and a half. The peak offers impressive view of both Rila and Pirin mountains.

Tourism Sites in the Region of Kurdzhali

Mon, 16 Jun 2008 13:57:00 +0300

Kurdzhali History Museum The museum is situated in a building that was named an architecture monument and has a large, well-maintained park. Construction took place in the 20s of the 20th century. Initially the building was to be used as a Muslim religious school but it never served the purpose. It resembles a medieval castle. The building was renovated in 1983, when the first exposition was placed in the museum. The three floors have an area of 1300 sq m, all used to host various artifacts. More than 27 000 objects have been put on display. The museum traces Kurdzhali's history, as well as developments in the region. Some of the most interesting collections focus on recent Perperikon and Tatoul discoveries. To visit the museum, go to 4 Repoublikanska street. It welcomes visitors each day apart from Monday, from 9 am to 5 pm. More information about Kurdzhali is...

Tourism Sites in Kyustendil

Mon, 16 Jun 2008 13:04:00 +0300

Art Gallery Vladimir Dimitrov - Maistora The biggest art gallery in Bulgaria is situated in the town of Kiustendil. It was founded in 1944 and the collection was initially placed in Ahmed Bei mosque. All works of art were later on moved to a former synagogue. Today, the paintings are placed in a specially constructed building that opened doors in 1972 to honor the anniversary of its founder, Bulgarian painter Vladimir Dimitrov - Maistora. The gallery features 3200 paintings by 585 artists. Dimitrov's works total 1357. Works have been organized in several collections among which Kiustendil paintings, Bulgarian paintings, foreign works, ancient and medieval art. To visit the gallery, go to 20 Patriarh Evtimii street. It works each day apart from Monday from 9 am to midday and from 2 pm to 6 pm during the summer and from 9 am to midday and from 1 pm to 5 pm during the...

Tourism Sites in Dobrich

Mon, 16 Jun 2008 12:11:00 +0300

A major museum dedicated to Bulgarian writer Yordan Yovkov is situated in the town of Dobrich. Yovkov was born in Zheravna, where his home and a small museum are located. The family later on relocated. The museum houses more than 10 000 objects that describe the life and work of Yovkov in detail. It opened in 1980 to commemorate 100 years since the birth of the writer. An art exhibition is one of the most attractive sites. It includes painted ceramics and is situated in the museum's yard. The building itself is also impressive. It is situated on 4 General Gourko street and works each day apart from Saturday and Sunday, from 9 am to 5 pm. More information about Dobrich is available here.

Tourism Sites in the Region of Dryanovo

Fri, 13 Jun 2008 15:23:00 +0300

Kolio Ficheto’s Museum A museum exposition has been dedicated to Kolio Ficheto, one of the best known Bulgarian craftsmen. The collection is housed in Dryanovo’s history museum. It was put together in 1970 to commemorate 170 years since his birth. Nikola Fichev, as his real name is, was born in Dryanovo in 1800. He learned various crafts, among which church construction. He moved to Veliko Turnovo and there gained the title of a skilled craftsman. He died in Veliko Turnovo in 1881. Ficheto continued working until his last breath. During his numerous years of work, Ficheto constructed some of the most beautiful buildings and churches in the country. He is also well-known for the bridges that he created. Some of the must sees among his works are Svishtov’s church Sveta Troitsa, St. St. Konstantin and Elena church in Veliko Turnovo, Belenskia bridge...

Tourism Sites in Triavna

Fri, 13 Jun 2008 14:11:00 +0300

Daskalova Kushta (teacher’s house) in Triavna is the place where the only specialized woodcarving museum in Bulgaria is situated. The house itself has been named a monument of culture, since it carries the typical Triavna revival style. Construction took place between 1804 and 1808. While decorating the house, local craftsmen decided to compete in the creation of the most beautiful woodcarving. The two worked nearly six months on the ceilings of two rooms. As a result, sun carvings decorate the two ceilings. The outcome of the competition is unknown but it was considered the first arts competition to be carried out in the country. As a result, the house turned into a museum dedicated to woodcarving. A collection of various woodcarvings can be seen there. Some of them represent wooden sculptures of Bulgarian hans, kings and revolutionaries. The museum is situated...

Tourism Sites in Kozloduy

Thu, 12 Jun 2008 12:24:00 +0300

National Museum Steamship Radetski The museum steamship Radetski is situated in the town of Kozloduy, on 82 Hristo Botev street. Its main task is to discover, preserve and popularize documents about the activities of Hristo Botev and his revolutionary group. The ship itself, the one that Botev used to get to Bulgarian shore, is situated on the Kozloduy river bank and offers accommodation against modest payment. From the beginning of April to mid November, the ship takes visitors along the Danube. The ship is an exact replica of the actual Radetski, which unfortunately burned down in the 60s of the 20th century. Visitors are welcome at the museum each day from 9 am to 6 pm. Hristo Botev’s Monument The park named after revolutionary Hristo Botev is situated close to the Kozloduy river bank. A massive monument has been placed there to describe the manner in which...

Okolchitsa Tourism Site

Thu, 12 Jun 2008 12:04:00 +0300

Okolchitsa peak is situated 20 km away from the town of Vratsa. Bus transportation is available from the town to the landmark during the summer. It is one of the hundred national tourist sites. A monument in the shape of a cross rises 35 m above the ground. It honors the revolutionary activities of Hristo Botev and his troops. On June 2 1876, Botev's revolutionaries fought their last battle at Okolchitsa. Botev himself died, hit by a bullet in the head. Stone carving marks the revolutionary's final resting place. More about Okolchitsa peak is available here.

Tourism Sites in Vratsa Region

Wed, 11 Jun 2008 18:38:00 +0300

Ledenika Cave Ledenika is one of the most beautiful caves in the country. It is located 16 km away from the town of Vratsa. The length of the cave is 320 m and it has 10 halls. Long time ago, the cave was filled with water, which gradually pulled away. Today, the cave has only one lake named Ezeroto na Zhelaniata (the wishing well). According to a legend, a wish made at that spot will come true. The White Hall has some interesting formations, yet the most famous Ledenika chamber is the Concert Hall. Its height is 23 m. During the spring and winter, ice formations can be spotted in the outer chamber. The cave is open for visitors each day from 9 am to 5 pm during the summer and to 4 pm during the winter. To learn more about it, click here. Vratsa History Museum Vratsa's history museum is situated on 2 Hristo Botev street, in the central part of town. It was...

Tourism Sites in the Region of Belogradchik

Wed, 11 Jun 2008 14:05:00 +0300

Belogradchik's Rocks and Fortress Belogradchik's rock formations have been named a nature landmark in the region of western Stara Planina Mountain. The area is situated 180 km away from Sofia and 50 km away from the town of Vidin. Many legends have been told about the rocks. Some of the most impressive formations are situated south of Belogradchik. Among the rocks near the town, visitors can see one of the oldest fortresses in Bulgaria. Belogradchik fortress uses the steep rocks as protective walls from two sides. It was constructed long before the Bulgarian state was set up. The fortress functioned until the 19th century. Visitors can see the fortress each day from 9 am to 6 pm. For more information click here. History Museum Belogradchik's history museum has been set up in Panova house, a building from 1810. The construction has typical revival period...

Magourata Cave

Wed, 11 Jun 2008 13:08:00 +0300

Magourata cave is situated 180 km away from Sofia, near Belogradchik. The cave halls discovered so far have a total length of 2500 m. The main hall is surrounded by several smaller ones. Magourata, as well as the surrounding region, have been named a nature landmark. More than 700 drawings were discovered on the cave walls. According to scientists, this is one of the biggest cave painting collections in Europe. The drawings appeared over a long period of time. Similar ones were discovered in Italy and Asia. Some of the drawings resemble a calendar and signify that the cave might have been used as a sanctuary. Magourata is open for visitors from 9 am to 2 pm. To learn more about it click here.

Tourism sites in Vidin

Wed, 11 Jun 2008 13:02:00 +0300

Baba Vida fortress is situated in Vidin and happens to be the only completely restored medieval fortification in the country. The fortress is situated in the outskirts of the town, surrounded by a deep trench. The fortress appeared more than 2000 years ago and gained various functions through the centuries. It acted as a protective facility and as a rulers' residence. Visitors can explore the fortress from 8.30 am to 5 pm on weekdays and from 10 am to 5 pm on weekends. To learn more about Vidin click here and about the fortress - here.

Tourism sites in Svishtov

Wed, 11 Jun 2008 11:59:00 +0300

Aleko Konstantinov's museum has been set up in his house in Svishtov. Konstantinov donated the building for the cultural needs of the town. The museum opened doors in 1926. The first floor features an archeology collection that brings together various artifacts from the region. An exhibition dedicated to Konstantinov was put on display on the second floor. His belongings and books tell a lot about the writer's short but colorful life. The authentic looks of the second floor have been preserved. Many of Konstantinov's books, translated in several languages, can be seen in the museum. Probably its most valuable item is the heart of the writer that has been specially preserved. The museum is open each summer day from 8 am to midday and from 1 pm to 5 pm apart from Sundays. During the winter, it is closed on Saturdays and Sundays. To learn more about Svishtov...

Tourism Sites in the Region of Veliko Turnovo

Tue, 10 Jun 2008 15:12:00 +0300

Tsarevets The hill of Tsarevets is situated near the old Bulgarian capital Veliko Turnovo. During the Second Bulgarian Kingdom, it happened to be the location of a major fortress. The most important buildings in the capital were situated there, namely the king's and the patriarch's palaces and residences. Early settlers found the place in the fourth millennium BC. Over the centuries, various Thracian settlements appeared there. A Bulgarian fortress was constructed over the remains of a Byzantine one in the 7th century. Fortress remains have been renovated and welcome visitors today. A Light and Sound show takes place there, describing the might of the old Bulgarian capital. During the summer, the fortress is open for visits from 8 am to 7 pm and works until 5 pm during the winter. To learn more about Tsarevets click here. Bulgarian Revival and Constituent Assembly...

Mosaics Museum in Devnia

Mon, 09 Jun 2008 16:24:00 +0300

Devnia's mosaics museum is one of a kind. It was constructed over the remains of an old Roman building dating back to the end of the 3rd and the beginning of the 4th century. Mosaics made of tiny marble pieces, clay and colored glass can be seen there. These served as wall and floor decorations in buildings like homes, cult houses and tombs. Each work of art depicts a unique scene. Most of them focus on mythology or include animal, floral or geometric patterns. The museum has various other artifacts connected to lifestyle and architecture in the region. Visit the museum on 78 Suedinenie street each day apart from weekends from 10 am to 4 pm.

Tourism sites in Varna

Mon, 09 Jun 2008 15:51:00 +0300

Regional History Museum The Varna history museum is among those having richest collections. Varna's archeology society founded it and the first exposition was added in 1906 and was displayed in a room of the girls' college. The museum remained there until 1952, when it was moved in another school on Sheinovo street. In 1983, the collections were moved back to the original location where they can still be seen today. Construction of the museum building took place in the end of the 19th century. It was set up in Neo-Renaissance style, having two floors and an inner yard. The area it covers is 2150 sq m and today the building allows the display of only a tenth of the artifacts. One of the biggest treasures preserved there is the Varna gold treasure that was discovered in 1972. Scientists believe that it is among the oldest treasures discovered on a global scale. To...

Tourism Sites in the Region of Malko Turnovo

Mon, 09 Jun 2008 12:27:00 +0300

History Museum Malko Turnovo is a town situated 55 km southwest of Tsarevo and only nine km away from the border between Bulgaria and Turkey. This is the only town on the territory of Strandzha Mountain, though it is rather small. Numerous archaeological landmarks have been discovered there, showing that the territory was populated in the distant past. The history and archaeology museum of Malko Turnovo is among the 100 national tourist sites. It is situated on 1 Konstantin Petkanov street and welcomes visitors each day from 8 am to 5 pm. During the weekends, it has a break from midday to 2 pm. Three buildings comprise the museum in the end of the 19th century. All of them have been named monuments of culture. Artifacts have been organized in five collections, namely archeology, new and modern history, icon painting, ethnographic and nature. Petrova Niva Region Petrova Niva...

Tourism Sites in Nessebar

Mon, 09 Jun 2008 12:17:00 +0300

The old part of the coastal town of Nessebar is really tiny. The plot that it covers is only 850 m long and 350 m wide. This piece of land is connected to the main part of Nessebar through a tine strip of land. Part of this 'old town' is rapidly growing, merging Nessebar with the nearby towns and resorts. Numerous archaeological finds prove that this place is truly old. Over the centuries a third of the old town disappeared in the sea. Remains of the city wall can still be seen today in the water, hundred meters away from the shore. Many buildings from the revival period have been preserved. They all demonstrate the typical for the time architecture. Old mills and fountains can be seen as well. Nessebar was named an architecture and archeology preserve in 1956. In 1983, UNESCO added the monuments there in its World Heritage List. A museum opened doors in 1994 and...

Tourism Sites in the Region of Petrich

Mon, 09 Jun 2008 10:56:00 +0300

Roupite “This place [Roupite] is strange in its own way. It helps me accumulate power and gather energy and strength. Long time ago, a scary fire burned here and the mountains keep a great secret.” These were the words the prophet Vanga used to describe the region of Roupite. The village is situated 9 km away from the town of Petrich, in a beautiful region under the same name. The village appeared in 1815 as a Petrich neighborhood. From 1951 to 1993 it carried the name of Mouletarovo after the communist activist Vasil Mouletarov. Nearly 1100 people live in the village. Roupite is surrounded by numerous natural and historic landmarks. The mountain of Kozhouh is situated only 2 km away. It represents volcanic remains but Kozhouh has been inactive for the past million years. Kozhouh is also known for its ancient finds. Archaeologists found there the...

Tourism Sites in Samokov

Sat, 07 Jun 2008 15:29:00 +0300

History Museum Samokov’s history museum exists since 1930, when it consisted of a single collection placed in the town’s community center. In 1940, the museum was moved to a specially constructed building. More than 30 000 artifacts make up the collection today. They have been organized in several collections like ethnography, archaeology, art, photos and documents. The archaeology collection is made mainly of Thracian and ancient findings. Lifestyle in the region is presented through the ethnographic exhibition. Clothing, jewelry, woodcarvings and other works of local craftsmen can be seen there. Samokov’s museum protects many fine works of local artists among which Zahari Zograph, Stanislav Dospevski and Ivan Ikonopisets. Documents made in the first Bulgarian printing house can also be seen there. The museum welcomes visitors each day from...

Tourism Sites in the Region of Melnik

Fri, 06 Jun 2008 14:33:00 +0300

History Museum Melnik’s history museum is situated in a new building near one of the town’s biggest hotels. Until recently, the museum was to be found in Pashova house, constructed back in 1815. Several main themes have been followed through the expositions. Artifacts trace Melnik’s history since ancient times. The ethnographic collection is quite abundant and describes in details the lifestyle of Melnik residents and of Greek settlers in the town. One of the most interesting collections is dedicated to wine production in the town. Photos and objects describe how the production techniques evolved through the centuries. The museum works each day from 8 am to 6 pm. To learn more about Melnik, click here. Kordopoulova House Kordopoulova house is one of the biggest preserved revival period edifices. It is situated in the eastern part of Melnik....

Vihren Peak Tourism Site

Fri, 06 Jun 2008 12:13:00 +0300

Vihren is the tallest peak of Pirin Mountain with its 2914 m. This ranks it as the second highest Bulgarian peak after Rila's Mousala and as the third most impressive mountain peak on the Balkans. Many paths can be followed to reach it, the easiest one being the path through Bansko. Vihren and Bunderitsa huts are situated beneath the peak. There, tourists can rest and spend the night for the modest five to six leva per person. You can reach Vihren hut by car or by a taxi from Bansko. You can call the hut at 07443/8279. To learn more about Vihren, click here.

Tourism Sites in the Village of Dobursko

Fri, 06 Jun 2008 12:00:00 +0300

One of the oldest settlements in the foot of Rila Mountain hides in its heart a real historic treasure. The village of Dobursko is situated 180 km away from Sofia and 20 km away from the resort of Bansko. There, you can explore one of the 100 national tourist sites, namely the church St. St. Teodor and Tiron Stratilat. The church was constructed in 1614. Many historians have examined it and written books and research papers about the sanctuary. Structure enabled the church survive Ottoman rule, since nearly half of the building is dug into the ground. St. St. Teodor and Tiron Stratilat is plain and almost unnoticeable from the outside, a fact compensated for by the interior that is richly painted and decorated. The unique wall paintings make historians wonder. Many rumors and stories about their origin have been circulated. Some of the theories focus on the modernistic...

Tourism Sites in the Region of Bansko

Fri, 06 Jun 2008 11:29:00 +0300

Velianova House Velianova house is one of the best preserved edifices in the resort of Bansko from its revival-time period. It was constructed in the end of the 18th century and was presented as an award to locals by the craftsman Ousta Velian Ognev, one of the people who worked on the decoration of Sveta Troitsa church. The house itself is a typical enforced edifice. It has two floors. The ground floor has a hiding place, comprised of two connected chambers. The second floor has a residential part and a chardak (a type of a covered terrace that is typical for old Bulgarian houses). Only wood and stone were used in the construction. Interior decorations are the most notable part of the house. Wall paintings in the so-called blue room happen to be the most attractive, as they present landscapes from Venice and Istanbul. The house’s chardak features beautiful...

Toutrakan's Ribarska Mahala (Fishermen's Neighborhood)

Mon, 26 May 2008 15:43:00 +0300

Toutrakan's fishermen neighborhood is a unique place. It happens to be the only fishermen's village in the country, situated near the Danube River. The neighborhood is situated in the northeastern part of Toutrakan, along the riverbank . The neighborhood has been named an architecture preserve. It has 48 houses, each one being a monument of culture. In the beginning of the 90s of the 20th century. A project of the national monuments of culture institute was used for the restoration of two houses. A third one is to undergo the same. Some of the houses were constructed 150 to 200 years ago, which makes them valuable archaeological landmarks. The neighborhood itself appeared in the 19th century and has been set up in the typical revival period style. In the past, Toutrakan residents made their living and developed two crafts connected to the proximity of the Danube...

Roussi Chorbadzhi House-Museum, Zheravna

Tue, 20 May 2008 17:23:00 +0300

Roussi Chorbadzhi's house is one of the oldest in the village of Zheravna. It was constructed nearly 300 years ago and survived several assaults. The owner was one of the most influential people in the village. He took part in village governance, had significant wealth and owned few shops. One legend tells how the revolutionary Indzhe fell in love with Roussi's daughter Kalinka. Indzhe kidnapped her and decided to spear Roussi's house from an assault. Yet, Roussi was killed since he warned people of the upcoming danger. The exterior of the house gives no clue of its ornate inside decorations. Its function was to probably protect the house and its riches. Once inside, visitors are taken to another world. Each room has its function and most exhibit intricate woodcarvings. Most of the woodcarvings include animal shapes and floral patterns, both very...

Sava Filaretov House-Museum in Zheravna

Tue, 20 May 2008 16:15:00 +0300

Sava Filaretov is one of the best known Bulgarian revival activists and teachers. He was one of the founders of modern schooling in Bulgaria. Filaretov was born in the village of Zheravna in 1825. Even when he was young, Filaretov demonstrated his interest in learning. After the graduation from the local school, his father sent him to Kotel where Filaretov continued his education with the help of the famous teacher Sava Dobroplodni. Upon his graduation, Filaretov studied teaching in the town of Shoumen. Local intellectuals helped him finish his education. His classmates gave Sava the nickname filaret or one who honors virtue. His craving for knowledge took Filaretov to Odessa and later on to Moscow, where he graduated with a university degree. Filaretov returned to Bulgaria, where he started reforming the education system. He worked on a small dictionary that Russian...

Pravets Monastery St. Teodor Tiron

Wed, 09 Apr 2008 09:28:00 +0300

Pravets monastery St. Teodor Tiron is a relatively small one, situated only few km away from the town of Pravets. Take the road to Etropole and you will see the sanctuary in the folds of Stara Planina Mountain. Etropole monastery Sveta Troitsa is also nearby, situated only 15 km away. Pravets monastery is the only one that carries that name in Bulgaria. Teodor Tiron was a soldier in the Roman army. Locals see the saint as Pravet’s protector. The names Todor and Teodor are very common there. Little is known of the monastery’s history. Almost all books and old writings were destroyed. Some historians believe that a Thracian sanctuary was situated there. According to them, the monastery was created during the reign of Asen and Petur. An assault took place in 1636 and the monastery was totally destroyed a century later. It was renovated in 1866. After...

Zhaba Mogila Tomb

Mon, 31 Mar 2008 15:12:00 +0300

Zhaba Mogila’s Thracian tomb is situated several km away from the town of Strelcha. Archaeologist Georgi Kitov discovered the tomb in the 70s of the 20th century. Archaeologists believe that a Thracian ruler was buried there. The burial ceremony probably took place much after the construction of the tomb. The tomb dates back to the 5th and 4th century BC. It suffered plunders but archaeologists managed to find some interesting artifacts. A chariot and harness were found there. The tomb’s entrance was also preserved and the stones used in the construction show images of Thracian gods and floral ornaments. A temple is situated on the other side of the mound. Lion figures were placed on sides of entrance. One of them was moved to the National History Museum in Sofia. The temple has three chambers. To reach the mound, follow the brown signs directing...

Rila Monastery

Sun, 24 Feb 2008 15:02:00 +0200

Rila Monastery is situated close to the town of Blagoevgrad and the trip from Sofia to it is relatively short. St. Ivan Rilski found his place for seclusion and prayer in the Rila Mountain and founded the monastery there, together with his students. Right after its creation, the monastery became religious and cultural center. Today, it is one of the most beautiful and richest monasteries in the country, often considered one of the most recognizable Bulgarian symbols. Beautiful icons and intricate woodcarvings decorate the interior of its church, Rozhdestvo Bogorodichno. Some of the paintings are works of famous artists like Zahari Zograph. The monastery’s complex attracts many tourists. It brags a tower, a monastery kitchen and the beautiful church. The church houses the relics of Ivan Rilski, seen as miracle-making by many believers. If you want to explore...

Madara Horseman

Tue, 19 Feb 2008 17:12:00 +0200

The Madara Horseman is a rock relief, carved at a height of 23 m. The relief can be seen only one km away from the Village of Madara, on a rock of the Madara plateau. The village and this phenomenon are situated 20 km away from the town of Shoumen. You can see a man carved in the rocks. The horseman is riding while an eagle flies nearby and his dog follows the horse. The carving symbolizes triumph over the enemies. According to historians, the carving was made in the 8th or 9th century. It is connected to the reign of khan Tervel. Several writings confirm the theory that the carving appeared during the time of ancient Bulgarians. The carving has vast historic and cultural importance. In 1979, the Madara Horseman was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Many other historic landmarks can be seen in the same region. The old capitals of Pliska and Preslav are situated...

Glozhen Monastery

Mon, 14 Jan 2008 14:02:00 +0200

Glozhene monastery is situated in the northern part of Stara Planina Mountain, close to the villages of Glozhene and Maluk Izvor. Its name is derived from the village of Glozhene and from a legend about the monastery. According to the legend, Glozhene was founded in 1239 by the Kiev prince named Glozh. He received Bulgarian permission to settle there, since the prince helped the Bulgarian tsar Ivan Assen II during the battle of Klokotnitsa. The prince carried a miracle-making icon and soon after he settled in Bulgaria, he constructed a monastery in the foot of Stara Planina Mountain. The icon disappeared on several occasions and was found each time in the high rocks above the monastery. Monks saw this as a sign to relocate and construct the whole complex again high in the rocks. In the end of the 14th century, a new building appeared in the rocks and the icon was placed...

St. Sofia Church

Mon, 14 Jan 2008 13:52:00 +0200

The church of St. Sofia is one of the symbols of Bulgaria’s capital. It is the second oldest church in Sofia after St. George. The church is situated in the central part of the city, on Alexander Nevski square. St. Sofia was constructed in the 4th century AD over the remains of older churches. Excavation works near the church unearthed objects typical for early Christianity. Before that, the region was the site of a Roman stadium. During the Second Bulgarian Kingdom, the church turned into a bishop’s center. It was turned into a mosque during the Ottoman reign over Bulgaria. A strong earthquake in the 19th century damaged one of the minarets. The building was not renovated and later on it was abandoned. After the liberation, the building once again became a church. It was renovated in the 30s of the 20th century. Today St. Sofia greets visitors. The...

Klisurski Monastery

Mon, 14 Jan 2008 13:31:00 +0200

St. Cyril and Methodeus monastery is situated in the western part of Stara Planina Mountain, under Todorini Koukli peak, close to the charming little town of Varshets. According to historians, the monastery was founded during the Second Bulgarian Kingdom. It was attacked and set on fire many times during the Ottoman period. The last raid of 1862 was the reason for the abandonment of the monastery. This incident happened on the day honoring the two saints that gave the monastery’s name. All monks and believers present at that time were killed. Only a few years later the monastery was rebuilt and resumed all its activities. In 1891, the Vidin bishop sanctified the church in the complex and in 1937 it was decorated by famous artists. In 2000, a spring of healing water was found in the monastery yard. Now the monastery complex has the statute of a village. Residential...

Etropolski Monastery

Mon, 14 Jan 2008 13:26:00 +0200

Being in nature surroundings takes you closer to God. Or so people say. This very same reason determines the spots that will offer you a true spiritual experience. Some unique monasteries are situated in secluded mountain regions, far away from noise and commerce. One such place is St. Troitsa monastery, also known as Etropolski monastery. The cloister is situated five km away from the town of Etropole, hidden in the folds of Stara Planina Mountain. If you want to run away from noise, this is your place. Etropolski monastery has a third name, Varovitets. This name is probably derived from the limestone formations found in the area. A steep path leads from the monastery to a waterfall. The water has been washing the stone wall behind it for thousands of years. During the summer, the waterfall dwindles giving you the chance to explore these rocks. Accommodation is offered in...

Boyana Church

Mon, 14 Jan 2008 13:16:00 +0200

The Boyana Church St. Nikola and Pantheleimon is one of the Bulgarian monuments under the protection of UNESCO. It is located in Sofia’s Boyana residential district, on Boyansko Ezero Street. The medieval church is in UNESCO World Heritage List since 1979. Some of the wall decorations in the church are well known all over the world. Three construction phases produced the current-day church. The smallest part of the church was built in the late 10th century. The second stage took place in the 13th century with the construction of a two-storey church and a tomb. The last part of the complex was built in the 19th century. Several layers of wall decorations have piled over each other. Only few fragments of the first layer can be seen. The second layer dates back to the middle of the 13th century. The most outstanding decorations appeared during this period. Over 240 wall...

Bachkovski Monastery

Mon, 14 Jan 2008 12:29:00 +0200

Hidden in the slopes of the Rhodope Mountains, in the valley of Chepelarska River, hides Bachkovski monastery. The monastery is located 10 km south of Assenovgrad and 29 km away from Plovdiv. Bachkovski monastery is among the oldest in Bulgaria. It combines three cultures – Byzantine, Georgian and Bulgarian. The cloister was founded in 1083 by the Georgian military commander Grogori Bakuriani and his brother Abazi. In 1344, the monastery and the surrounding area came under the rule of the Bulgarian king Ivan Alexander. The Byzantine Empress Anna reassigned this territory to the Bulgarian ruler. The king patronized the cloister and made considerable donations. In 1364, the monastery was conquered by Ottoman soldiers. In the 15th and 16th centuries, the cloister suffered several robberies and devastations. It was renovated in the early 17th century. St. Bogoroditsa...

Arbanasi Monastery

Mon, 14 Jan 2008 12:00:00 +0200

The St. Bogoroditsa Convent is situated in the beautiful village of Arbanasi, a few kilometers away from Veliko Turnovo. It is widely known under the name Arbanasi monastery. The cloister was founded during the Second Bulgarian Kingdom. Its buildings were among the few that survived the Ottoman invasion. In the beginning of the Ottoman reign over Bulgaria, the monastery remained big and wealthy but was eventually abandoned because of frequent assaults. Arbanasi monastery was burgled and devastated many times. A church was constructed in the 17th century. It is still well preserved. In the early 18th century, several residential buildings were constructed near the church and the monastery resumed its activities. Some church wall decorations were made in the next few decades. They can still be seen. A miraculous, silver-plated icon, has found its home in the monastery. The...

Alexander Nevski Cathedral

Mon, 14 Jan 2008 11:56:00 +0200

Alexander Nevski cathedral can be seen as one of the most beautiful and impressive symbols of Sofia. It is situated in the center of the city, on the square carrying the same name, very close to the National Assembly building. The cathedral is also the main church of the Bulgarian Orthodox Patriarch. Neo-Byzantine construction style was followed, strongly expressed in the cathedral’s golden domes. The area of the temple is 3170 sq m and the height of the biggest bell tower is 50 m. This makes Alexander Nevski second biggest orthodox cathedral on the Balkans after St. Sava Srabski in Belgrade. Construction of the church started in 1882 following the designs of architect academician Ivan Bogomilov. After his early death, design was assigned to the Russian architect Pomerantzev, who totally changed the structure of the building. Work on the building ended in 1912....

Zlatograd Ethnographic Complex

Mon, 14 Jan 2008 11:52:00 +0200

The beautiful town of Zlatograd is hidden in the heart of the Rhodope Mountain, close to the border with Greece. Zlatograd’s ethnographic complex is one of the town’s prides, alongside its breathtaking nature and rich historic background. The complex is unique, since a single private initiative led to its creation. A private company provided the funds in 2001. Zlatograd’s complex is similar to Etur in Gabrovo. The complex is situated in the central part of the town and is easily accessible. Its atmosphere makes visitors forget about the present time and go back in history. In the beginning, examine the historic and ethnographic exposition. It will tell you more about the region’s past and the local lifestyle. Once you learn more about Zlatograd, proceed with exploring the rest of the complex. Many craftsmen demonstrate their skills in...

Svezhen Village

Mon, 14 Jan 2008 11:49:00 +0200

Svezhen is a picturesque village situated in а valley in the Sredna Gora region. The distance from the city of Plovdiv is 60 km. Svezhen’s biggest treasure is 100 houses that have been preserved from Bulgaria’s revival period. Fifteen houses are over 300 years old. The village was named architecture preserve, yet its rich heritage is poorly maintained. Many houses are slowly crumbling. In 1877, the village was set on fire but nearly 100 houses remained intact. Two neighborhoods formed on the shores of Svezhenska River. The biggest and most ornate house was destroyed in the fire. Today, a bell tower has been set up there. Apart from the wonderful architecture monuments, Svezhen’s region has several huts that attract hiking lovers. Svezhen, Kavaklika, Bratan and Haidouta huts are also situated there.

Old Dobrich

Mon, 14 Jan 2008 11:47:00 +0200

In its heart, the town of Dobrich hides a place that reminds of old times. Ethnographic complex Old Dobrich was created in the 80s of the 20th century. There, you can observe, feel and taste the past. You can also get involved in old-time activities and truly submerge yourself in Dobrich’s heritage. Nearly 30 shops give skillful craftsmen the chance to demonstrate their work in front of visitors. Some of the sweetshops will offer you culinary temptations, while the coffee shop will present you with a cup of the aromatic drink. The complex has its restaurant and hotel. There, you can taste traditional dishes and rest in the calm atmosphere.

Zheravna Village

Mon, 14 Jan 2008 11:36:00 +0200

Much can be written about the village of Zheravna, yet the village does a good job telling its own story. The revival-period houses keep memories of old times. Zheravna is situated 15 km away from the town of Kotel and 45 km away from the town of Sliven. The village has been named an architecture preserve, as it has more than 150 preserved authentic houses. Some of them are over 300 years old. Most of the houses are made of wood but have been set up over stone foundations. St. Nikolai church is another old building. The church treasures a permanent icon exhibition. Many well-known Bulgarians were born in Zheravna. Sava Filaretov and Yordan Yovkov are two such public figures. Filaretov’s house has been turned into a museum. The house of the writer Yovkov also houses an exhibition. Several small hotels offer accommodation in Zheravna. Owners are welcoming and...

Etura Ethnographic Complex

Mon, 14 Jan 2008 11:15:00 +0200

The ethnographic complex of Etura is located several kilometers south of the town of Gabrovo. Signs mark the road to the place. Public transportation buses from Gabrovo also reach Etura. The complex was opened in 1964. Its founders wanted to recreate on smaller scale the craftsmanship of Gabrovo from the time of the Bulgarian revival. Some of the constructions in Etura are authentic, only renovated. The other buildings are exact replicas of the old-time constructions. A parking lot has been set up to aid visitors. Buying a ticket grants you entry to a long alley that leads to Etura. To feel the atmosphere of the complex fully, visit during the summer months. Etura has several workshops, most of which work during the day. These allow visitors look at craftsmen in action. Some of the workshops have recreated older methods of traditional production but these unfortunately do...

Bozhentsi Village

Mon, 14 Jan 2008 11:05:00 +0200

The picturesque village of Bozhentsi is located near the town of Gabrovo. It has been proclaimed one of the most beautiful architecture preserves in Bulgaria. Bozhentsi is located 16 km east of Gabrovo. A number of typical Bulgarian houses and municipal buildings have been preserved there. An ancient legend tells how the village got its name. A boyar by the name of Bozhana ran away from Veliko Turnovo after the death of her husband. She escaped from the town after Ottomans conquered it. Bozhana gave the village her name. In the 18th and 19th centuries, locals dealt with trade and craftsmanship. Today, however, the village remembers little of the hectic activities that went on in the past. The large, two and three-storey houses impress with their unique architecture. More than 100 houses in Bozhentsi have been preserved in their original state. Some of these buildings offer...

Varna Treasure

Mon, 07 Jan 2008 12:09:00 +0200

During 1972 construction works in Golden Sands resort, workers came upon a necropolis hill with more than 80 graves. Over six kg of gold were collected from all the graves. Some of the graves were more than 4000 years old. Nine hundred golden artifacts with total weight of over 1.5 kg were found in a single grave. The decoration and the fine objects show that this was the grave of a king or a priest. Until present, this is the biggest treasure ever found in a necropolis in Europe. All the objects were made with mastership and style. Pottery, copper, bronze adornments and shell ornaments were discovered alongside the gold objects. Now the treasure is kept in the Museum of Archeology in Varna.

Panagyurishte Treasure

Mon, 07 Jan 2008 12:02:00 +0200

In the cold morning of December 81949, brothers Pavel, Petko and Mihail worked together in the yard of the roof-tile factory in the town of Panagyurishte. While digging, one of them noticed something glossy in the soil. This was the glimmer of the nine containers from the Panagyurishte treasure. They are made of pure gold and their total weight is a little over six kg. The biggest container is an amphora – rhyton. Seven smaller rythons, three of which in the shape of animal heads, and three with the shape of Amazons also make up the treasure. The seventh smaller rhyton is similar to a purse in the shape of a goat. The final container is a vial. There is an inscription on the vial saying that it was made in the city of Lapsakos at the The treasure dates back to the 3rd century BC and features rich gold decoration representing Greek mythological scenes. Dishes were...

Mogilanska Mound Treasure

Mon, 07 Jan 2008 11:54:00 +0200

In 1965, a private yard in the town of Vratza became the site where two graves were discovered. One of them was already robbed, probably in the ancient times. Two bodies were found in one of the graves, male and female. Other findings included some silver and bronze containers, various weapons and a hearse. Historians believe that the grave belonged to a Thracian princess from the Triballi tribe. A golden tiara, golden earrings, a silver knee-piece with a golden female face printed on it, an amphora with the shape of cone, a golden decorated jug and a vial featuring a golden female head with gorgeous hair dress are some of the other findings. The treasure dates back to the 4th century BC and is kept at the National Museum of History in Sofia.

Loukovit Treasure

Mon, 07 Jan 2008 11:52:00 +0200

The little town of Loukovit, close to the town of Lovech, is the site where a Thracian treasure was found accidentally in 1953. Two more discoveries followed in 1955 and 1986. The entire treasure consists of 15 silver containers, 23 applications, horseride equipment and more than 200 silver loops, semispherical buttons, narrow pipes and little applications featuring human and animal images. Most of the applications were decorated with the images of horsemen pursuing lions and fighting animals. Archeologists think the lion symbolized royalty. These little plates were used for popularizing the divinity of the current ruler. People learned about the ruler’s bravery and achievement and complied. The treasure dates back to the 4th century BC. Now it can be seen in the National Museum of Archeology in Sofia.

Douvanlii Treasure

Mon, 07 Jan 2008 11:47:00 +0200

In 1925, during some farm works a necropolis hill was discovered near the village of Douvanlii, in the Plovdiv area. The treasure found in the tomb dates back to the 5th century BC. One part of it was moved to the Plovdiv Museum of Archeology and the other part relocated to the Sofia Museum of Archeology. Soon after the discovery, nearby hills underwent exploration as well. A grave from the 5th century BC was found in one of the hills. Archeologists found there a fine gold necklace. Expensive objects like golden breastplate and a noble’s cup were discovered in another hill.

Boukiovtsi Treasure

Mon, 07 Jan 2008 11:45:00 +0200

The treasure found in the village of Boukiovtsi is now kept in the National Museum of Archeology in Sofia. It was discovered in 1929. The treasure has several items, among which a little silver jug, two silver phials, a silver ornament with golden decoration, a silver gobele (cup) also featuring gold decorations, a forehead ornament in the shape of a falcon, applications of two intertwined lotus flowers. It dates back to the end of the 5th century BC. The gobele is very interesting with its horizontal fluting and the golden belt at the bottom. The forehead ornament appears to be one of the earliest stylized falcon images.

Hristo Botev's Memorial House

Mon, 07 Jan 2008 11:24:00 +0200

Kalofer is the hometown of Bulgarian revolutionary and poet Hristo Botev. Naturally, the town houses a national museum, dedicated to Botev’s life and achievements. Botev town park is the exact location of the museum. A memorial house, an exhibition hall, Botev’s monument and a monument of his mother, Ivanka Boteva, all make up the complex. The museum has been named cultural landmark of national importance. The museum is an exact replica of Botev’s house. The original house was destroyed in a Kalofer conflagration in 1877. Botev’s brother, Kiril, supervised the construction of the replica. It opened for visitors in 1944. A collection of ethnographic objects and decorations recreates the atmosphere in which Botev grew up. In 1973, an exhibition hall was constructed to expand the museum. The poet’s belongings can be seen there....

Vassil Levski's Memorial House

Mon, 07 Jan 2008 10:36:00 +0200

More than 70 years ago, the home of the great Bulgarian revolutionary Vassil Levski was restored and turned into a museum. The house looks just like it did hundreds of years ago. Hidden behind a white wall amongst the box-trees and the vine, the house appears just as if a loving hostess has just decorated it with colorful rag carpets, crockery and copper containers, loom and spinning wheel and the dyer’s workshop for the woolen braid. Vassil Ivanov Kounchev, known as Vassil Levski, was born there on July 18 1837. He became the moving force behind the Bulgarian movement for national liberation during the Ottoman period. In the years after Bulgaria gained independence, the house was abandoned and almost destroyed by time and nature. In 1933, it underwent restoration, yet the original looks were kept. Four years later, the museum was set up. Levski’s...

Nikola Vaptsarov's Memorial House

Thu, 03 Jan 2008 12:46:00 +0200

Nikola Vaptsarov’s memorial house in his native town of Bansko opened for visitors in the 50s, right after the poet was awarded posthumously with an international prize for peace. Eventually the museum collection expanded to become impressively complete. Two video rooms in the museum allow the screening of lectures and films in various languages. A rich ethnographic collection from the beginning of the 20th century is also part of the exposition. The house became the poet’s home after 1912. His relatives aided the creation of the museum. His mother, sister and brother donated most of Vaptsarov’s personal belongings, including the clothes he wore before his execution in 1942. Visitors are welcomed every day from 8am to midday and from 2pm to 6pm.

Slaveikov Family Museum

Thu, 03 Jan 2008 12:37:00 +0200

The Slaveikov family museum has been set up in the house of Petko R. Slaveikov’s eldest daughter. To visit the museum, go to Sofia’s 138 Rakovska Street. Two collections are available for visitors. The first one is dedicated to the father, P.R. Slaveikov, a poet, teacher and former minister. Various personal belongings have been collected to tell more about his life. One notable item is the table used for the signing of the Turnovo Constitution. The second collection describes the life and work of his son, the poet Pencho Slaveikov. His books and magazines translated in 9 languages, as well as some poems and works that have never been published feature in the collection. The museum was created in 1951. It is open for visitors on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 10am to 5pm. On Thursdays pay a visit from 1pm to 5pm.

Raina Kniaginia's Memorial House

Thu, 03 Jan 2008 12:32:00 +0200

The memorial house of Raina Popgeorgieva, better known as Raina Kniaginia or princess Raina, has been set up in the charming little town of Panagyurishte. Born in 1856, Raina Popgeorgieva probably became one of the most well-known female revolutionaries in the country. She played an active role in the April uprising and embroidered the flag that revolutionaries carried. The house was built in 1673 and underwent renovation works. A crafts workshop was originally hosted on the first floor. Now it treasures the personal belongings of Raina Kniaginia. An ethnographic collection is exposed on the second floor. It shows what the customs of the 19th century Panayurishte were. Few people know that the life of Raina did not end with the failure of the April uprising. She had a difficult life until her death in 1917. In 1950 her heirs transfered the house to the Historical Museum...

Pancho Vladigerov's Memorial House

Thu, 03 Jan 2008 12:18:00 +0200

The greatest Bulgarian composer Pancho Vladigerov has his museum set up in Sofia, on the silent 1 Yakobitsa street. The museum in the residential district of Lozenets opened doors for visitors in 2005. This is the last home of the virtuoso. It treasures his personal belongings and documents. The original script of Vladigerov’s Rhapsody Vardar masterpiece is treasured there, as well as his books and collection of records. Visitors can also take a look at some of his records. Even from a distance, the house reveals that an artist lived there. Two iron nightingales welcome visitors above at front door. The museum is organized in the biggest room of the house, the composer’s living room. Visitors are welcomed from Monday to Friday, from 10am to 5pm.

Neofit Rilski's Memorial House

Thu, 03 Jan 2008 12:10:00 +0200

Each Bulgarian has heard of Neofit Rilski. The great education and enlightenment activist was born in the town of Bansko in 1793. Neofit Rilski studied iconography and later became a monk in the Rila Monastery. He was one of the leaders of the Bulgarian revival. Possessing encyclopedic knowledge of culture, education, arts and architecture, he became the author of the first Bulgarian grammar-book. His home in Bansko now treasures a museum collection. The museum presents two sets of items, ethnographic and documental. The first one is arranged in the authentic home of Neofit Rilski. It reveals the customs of people from the end of the 18th and the beginning of the 19th century. The documents in the second collection describe the activities of Rilski. The house has been set up in typical Bansko style. It was built in the end of the 18th century and was Rilski’s home...

Ivan Vazov's Memorial House

Thu, 03 Jan 2008 12:01:00 +0200

The memorial house of the great Bulgarian writer Ivan Vazov is situated on the corner of Ivan Vazov and Rakovski streets. The writer spent his final years in this house. There, he died in 1921. The house was built in 1895 and it is one of the most beautiful buildings in Sofia. Personal belonging among which clothes, books, presents and awards all feature in the collection. His workroom is preserved in its original state. The room has witnessed the creation of some of the most outstanding Bulgarian literary works. Elin Pelin, another famous Bulgarian writer, was the first keeper of the museum. The museum opened doors for visitors only five years after Vazov’s death in 1926. The National Assembly took the initiative in its hands. The museum is open for visitors from Tuesday till Saturday as follows: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, from 10am to 5pm and...

Yordan Yovkov's Memorial House

Wed, 02 Jan 2008 17:09:00 +0200

Zheravna is the home village of the great Bulgarian writer Yordan Yovkov. A rich exposition, dedicated to his work, is to be found in his house on Goliamo Bardo Square. The collection includes many documents, pictures and manuscripts that belonged to Yovkov. Yovkov’s monument beautifies the yard. It presents the writer sitting on a chair, carried away in thought. The house is a humble one-storey building. The writer lived there until he became 13. During that time, the entire family moved to Dobroudzha.

Ilarion Makariopolski's Memorial House

Wed, 02 Jan 2008 17:01:00 +0200

The mountain town of Elena has a unique museum set up on 2 Doino Gramatik Street. Throughout time, the house became the birthplace of three great Bulgarians. Ilarion Makariopolski was a fighter for Orthodox Church independence in Bulgaria. His brother Nikola Mihailovski became the leader of the Bulgarian National Movement during the revival period. Nikola’s son, Stoyan Mihailovski, in turn became a poet. The house brags both a rich collection and outstanding architecture. Made of wood and stone, work on it ended in 1710. Two staircases lead to the second floor, one covered and one open-air. Napreduk (progress) library club was founded in one of the rooms in 1863.

Peio Yavorov's Memorial House

Wed, 02 Jan 2008 16:55:00 +0200

Chirpan, the birthplace of the outstanding poet Peio Yavorov hosts his house-museum. Yavorov visited the town of Chirpan often, in the period before his early death in 1914. The poet’s sister was among the first people who tried to set up a museum. Soon after Yavorov’s death, she decided to open a guestroom for all willing to explore the life and work of the poet. Some of Yavorov’s personal belongings were exposed in the room. Now the museum treasures a rich collection, including Yavorov’s bed, ink-pot, documents, photos and drawings.

Emilian Stanev's Memorial House

Wed, 02 Jan 2008 16:50:00 +0200

Emilian Stanev’s museum house is situated in his native town of Veliko Turnovo. Stanev has long been known as one of Bulgaria’s greatest writers. The house can be found on Samodivska Charshia Square, Nikola Zlatarski Street. Unfortunately, the original house was destroyed years ago but an exact replica was constructed for the purposes of the museum. Stanev lived in the house from 1907 to 1922. Then his whole family moved to the town of Elena. The museum treasures something unique, the typewriter that Stanev used in the creation of his works. Other personal belongings and a family tree diagram are also kept there.

Todor Kableshkov Memorial House

Wed, 02 Jan 2008 16:36:00 +0200

The Kableshkov house in Koprivshtitsa is an architecture masterpiece. This beautifully restored house is the birthplace of Todor Kableshkov, an outstanding revolutionary. A museum has opened in the house. The ground floor collection reveals more of the living style and customs during the revival period. Kableshkov’s personal belongings can be seen on the second floor. This exposition is dedicated to his revolutionary activities as well as his participation in the April uprising. The house and its beauty help visitors understand how much Kalbeshkov sacrificed for the sake of the independence fight.

Dimcho Debelyanov's Memorial House

Wed, 02 Jan 2008 16:33:00 +0200

The birth town of the great Bulgarian poet Dimcho Debelyanov is the place where his museum was established. Koprivshtitsa is the place where Debelyanov’s house was set up. The house has been turned into a museum dedicated to the poet. A nice little yard in the shadows of big pine trees surrounds the house. It is a humble two-storey construction, built by the poet’s grandfather in 1830. One of the treasured items in the collection is Debelyanov’s cradle, his suitcase, letters, photos and documents. A lovely statue of the poet’s mother is placed in front of the house in the center of the yard. The stone figure sits at the doorsteps, waiting in silent grief the return of her son.

Georgi Benkovski's Memorial House

Wed, 02 Jan 2008 16:30:00 +0200

Gavril Hlutev, better known as Georgi Benkovski, is a public figure that every present-day Bulgarian knows. His revolutionary activities played key role in the struggle for Bulgarian independence. Koprivshtitsa is the town that hosts Benkovski’s house museum. The house itself deserves a look at for its typical architecture. All made of wood, the house was constructed in 1831. One of the most unique artifacts preserved since the days of the April uprising can be seen there. Bekovski’s rifle can be seen there today. To visit the museum, go to Benkovski Street. In 1976, a monument honoring the revolutionary was placed near the house.

Angel Kunchev's Memorial House

Wed, 02 Jan 2008 16:22:00 +0200

Well-known Bulgarian revolutionary Angel Kunchev was born in Triavna, a small town in the Stara Planina Mountain region. His house has been turned into a museum hosting a collection of personal belongings and evidence of his revolutionary activities. The museum treasures more than 200 outstanding works of art among which ceiling wood carvings, iconostases and statues. Evidence has been presented about the activities of other revolutionaries born in the same region. The museum opened doors in 1970 on the occasion of Angel Kunchev’s 120th anniversary.

Ourvich Fortress

Wed, 02 Jan 2008 16:12:00 +0200

The remains of Ourvich fortress can be seen near the village of Pancharevo, only few kilometers away from Sofia. It was built on a steep hill surrounded by Iskur River. Historians believe the fortress came in existence in the 13th century. It was probably named after a local ruler. A second story attributes the name to the Bulgarian word for a steep hill. The legend says that King Ivan Alexander used the fortress as defense against Ottoman invaders. The Ottomans tried capturing Ourvich as it was the final obstacle on the road to Sofia. The great Bulgarian enlightener Paisii Hilendarski wrote in his History of Bulgaria that Ourvich was an important fortress during the Second Bulgarian Kingdom. Now the remains are accessible after a short walk up the hill. A six m high part of the fortress wall is still preserved, as well as the walls of the fortress church St. Ilia.

Gradishte Fortress near Tvarditsa

Wed, 02 Jan 2008 16:05:00 +0200

The remains of the old Gradishte fortress occupy a region on the road to Elena that is few kilometers away from the town of Tvarditsa. The town’s name came from the one of the fortress. Tvarditsa meant fortification in old Bulgarian. Exploration works in the region have not advanced yet. Yet historians know that Thracians built the fortress. Byzantines and Bulgarians made many improvements. During the Second Bulgarian Kingdom, the fortress played key role as a part of the Stara Planina Mountain fortification system. The inner yard of Gradishte measures approximately 25 000 sq m, which leads to the conclusion that it was a shelter for the people who lived in the near villages and a town itself. The remains of a church from the 10th century can be seen there. Part of the church decoration and wall-paintings is still preserved.

Tsepina Fortress

Wed, 02 Jan 2008 16:00:00 +0200

Western Rhodopes host the remains of Tsepina fortress. It can be seen only six km northwest of the village of Dorkovo. Tsepina was one of the most popular medieval Bulgarian fortifications. The altitude of the location is 1136 m. Tsepina became a part of Bulgaria in the 9th century. It was built on a rocky peak that is inaccessible from three of four sides. The only way to reach the peak is through a southern path, where an important medieval town was set up. The town was probably destroyed along with the fortress during the Ottoman invasion. Fortress walls surround a big inner yard. A castle was situated on the highest spot of the yard. Historians think that Tsepina was the main residence of king Kaloyan’s nephew and governor Alexi Slav, who later moved to Melnik. The remains of three churches were discovered in the fortress yard. One of the churches used to...

Sostra Fortress

Wed, 02 Jan 2008 14:43:00 +0200

Sostra was an ancient Roman fortress. Its remains now lay in the valley of the Osum River between the towns of Lovech and Troyan. Excavations were launched only few years ago and most of the developments that took place there are still veiled in mystery. According to historians, Sostra was built as a fortification for the troops garrisoned to protect a very important road from the Danube to Philippopolis. The name Sostra probably has Greek origin and means connection. This name signifies the strategic positioning of the fortress. A map from the 4th century features the fortification. The presence of troops provided safety that attracted people to settle there. Very soon, a craftsmen’s district appeared in the town. In the end of the 5th century, the fortress and the town were destroyed by the Huns. Visitors today can see some of the remains. Others are still being...

Despot Slav’s Fortress in Melnik

Wed, 02 Jan 2008 14:30:00 +0200

Despot Slav’s fortress, also known as Melnik fortress, can be seen only a kilometer away from the little town of Melnik. The ruins were discovered in the foundation of the St. Nikola church. The fortress was probably built in the 11th century. It was reconstructed in the 13th century under the rule of Governor Alexi Slav, who gave his name to the stronghold. Melnik acted as an important cultural, economic and religious center in the past. During the Roman and Byzantine rule, it had the statute of an emperor’s domain. Archeologists who explored the region found the remains of a temple of Artemis there. During the Second Bulgarian Kingdom, Melnik strengthened its positions as a bishop’с center. The main purpose of the fortress was to protect the treasures of Melnik and the region, especially during the rule of Alexi Slav and Dragota who chose...

Samouil Fortress

Fri, 21 Dec 2007 16:29:00 +0200

Samouil Fortress is located in the gorge near the village of Kliuch, 20 km west of Petrich and only four km away from the border between Bulgaria and Greece. It is situated on a hill by the river of Stroumeshnitsa. The fortress was a part of a big defense system that king Samouil built in the 11th century. All architectural characteristics typical for the First Bulgarian Kingdom are displayed in the fortress construction. It was built over ancient Slav and Thracian settlements with the purpose of protecting the whole valley. A major Bulgarian defeat happened in the area. In 1014, Emperor Basil II defeated the troops of Bulgarian king Samouil. Nearly 14 000 Bulgarians were taken as prisoners. Basil II decided to blind the prisoner. Each 100th warrior was left with one eye to be able to lead the other home. King Samouil survived the battle. Yet, the view of his defeated and blinded...

Rousokastro Fortress

Fri, 21 Dec 2007 16:27:00 +0200

The ruins of the ancient castle Rousokastro are situated close to the village of Zheliazovo in the Bourgas region. The other name of the fortress is Chervena Krepost, or red fortress, because of the red stones used in the constuction. The 2.5 m thick walls surround a town enclosed within the fortress. Excavations that started recently showed that the fortress was constructed over the ruins of a Thracian sanctuary from the 2nd millennium BC. Similar developments were discovered at Perperikon. Exploration has been ongoing. Archaeologists believe that the fortress was of major significance and was situated in a populated region. The castle is mentioned in the ancient historical documents in connection to many battles between Bulgaria and the Byzantine Empire. The most important battle that took place there involved the troops of King Ivan Alexander and the Byzantine emperor...

Pliska

Fri, 21 Dec 2007 15:55:00 +0200

Pliska is the first capital of Bulgaria since the state was founded in 681. Until king Simeon moved the capital to Preslav in 893, Pliska was the main cultural, economic and administrative center of the new kingdom. Historians believe that Pliska was built over the ruins of an ancient Slavic settlement. The ruins of Pliska now reveal the history of the town. The total area of the city was 23 sq km. Since there were no natural defense from enemies (Pliska is situated in lowland that lacks hills and mountains), the city was fortified via three defense systems. The outer one was a deep moat with high embankment that surrounded the town. The second one consisted of walls, watch-tower and gates. The citadel was surrounded by another wall. The palace and the khan residence were in the citadel. The ruins of the big palace have been preserved perfectly and happen to be one of the most...

Perperikon Fortress

Fri, 21 Dec 2007 14:46:00 +0200

Perperikon archaeological complex is situated 15 km away from the town of Kurdzhali. Archaeologists discovered there evidence of numerous past developments, hidden in the many historic layers. Exploration has been ongoing over the past five years and is expected to continue in the future. The fortress was build over the ruins of an ancient Thracian sanctuary, which appeared to be the most sacred place in the region for millenniums. A fortress wall, an acropolis, a palace and residential suburbs constitute the complex. Perperikon was massive and only stone was used in the construction. During the reign of emperor Justinian, the fortress was restored and fortified. Soon after that, Slavs invaded the region and settled there. The fortress eventually lost its magnificence and importance. In the 9th century, the Byzantine Empire regained its power and Perperikon fortress became a...

Krakra Fortress

Fri, 21 Dec 2007 14:42:00 +0200

Pernik fortress is also known as Krakra. It is situated in the southwestern outskirts of the town of Pernik. Khan Omourtag, an early Bulgarian ruler, probably ordered its construction. The fortress provided protection to the western border of the Bulgarian kingdom. Because of its key strategic position, the fortress was set up to be massive and strong. During the 10th and 11th centuries, Pernik fortress became the main fortification of the local ruler, Krakra of Pernik. The fortress was the center of his defense system consisting of 35 fortresses along the coast the Strouma River. During the rule of Krakra, Pernik fortress played key role in the war of king Samuil against the Byzantine emperor Basil II. Since then, the fortress carries the name of the brave Krakra. The legend says that Krakra and his warriors survived 88 days under Byzantine siege. The Byzantine emperor...

Ovech Fortress

Fri, 21 Dec 2007 14:27:00 +0200

The remains of an ancient castle can be seen near the little town of Provadia. The fortress carried the name Ovech. According to historians, Ovech was part of a Byzantine defense system, hindering the invasion of northern tribes. When it came under Bulgarian control, the fortress played key role in many battles during the First Bulgarian Kingdom. Ovech is situated on a high, rocky hill. A narrow strip of land connects the stronghold with another hill, Tabiite. Legends tell how wheat and food were stored in the nearby caves to supply locals in case of a siege. Byzantines, Ottomans and knights captured the fortress many times. King Ivan Alexander ordered the confinement of three prisoners in the fortress in 1366. The knights Amadeus of Savoy and the marshal of burgundy were two of them. They were captured by the Ovech army during the battle for Varna. Small portion of the...

Koznik Fortress

Fri, 21 Dec 2007 13:06:00 +0200

The remains of the medieval Bulgarian fortress of Koznik now can be seen on a rocky hill above the little Rhodope Mountain town of Roudozem. The fortress was a part of the Rhodope defense system along with few other facilities. The remains are still being examined by archeologists and historians are expected to reveal much more about its functions and development. A Roman sanctuary was uncovered as well during the exploration process. According to historians, Koznik fortress was given as a gift to king Ivan Alexander by the Byzantium Empress Ana Savoy, along with several other fortifications. A female adornment was found there in 2007 as well as parts of a spindle. The discovery shows that the families of soldiers lived there, together with the fortress guards. The purpose of Koznik was probably to defend the settlements in the region and the road to the Aegean Sea....

Konstantsia Fortress

Fri, 21 Dec 2007 12:30:00 +0200

The outskirts of present-day town of Simeonovgrad, the so called Asara neighborhood, host the remains of one outstanding medieval Bulgarian fortress, Konstantsia. Studies of the remains reveal that the fortress was built as a town with defense fortification in the 4th century and existed until the 13th century. Ancient historians described as a well-protected rich administrative, military and religious center. The area surrounding the settlement featured fertile land and agriculture became the main occupation of locals. Ancient historical chronicles mention the city for its rich crop production. Excavations uncovered three-m thick walls and a system of underground tunnels. The city was one of the biggest and most important in northern Thrace. Bulgarians conquered Konstantsia for the first time during the reign of Khan Kroum. The fortress was mentioned in connection to King...

Drustur Fortress

Fri, 21 Dec 2007 12:23:00 +0200

Drustur fortress probably was originally a Thracian fortification used by the Romans as the foundation for the construction of a major town by the Danube River. The growth of the town and the fortress happened during the first three centuries AD. They were given the name Dourostoroum. During the reign of emperor Marcus Aurelius, a legion was sent there. Soon, the soldiers attracted merchants and other civilians. A border point, a temples and private villas were built. The town had very strong trade connections with the other parts of the Roman Empire. In 238, the city was destroyed by the invasions of the Dacian tribe Carpians. In the 6th century, Slavs settled in this region. The city came into existence once again, strong and mighty with its new name Drustur. In the middle ages, the fortress attracted the Bulgarian, the Byzantine and the Kiev rulers because of its...

Beadnos Fortress

Thu, 20 Dec 2007 16:35:00 +0200

Beadnoss fortress is located in the Rhodope Mountain region, close to the village of Beden. It was part of the Rhodope fortification system along with the Assenova fortress, Turlata and Gradishteto. It was build before the 9th century. The strategic location gave panoramic view of the West Rhodope region. Fortress guards observed all roads and paths in the region and in case of danger warned other fortification via fire. Beadnoss fortress, along with several other fortifications, was presented as a gift to king Ivan Alexander by Ana Savoy, the Empress of Byzantium. The fortress had two big walls. The inner wall was made of stone and the outer was made of pine tree trimmer joists. The foundations of the fortress are in the shape of an irregular tetragon with approximate longitude of 50 m and width of 25 m. A big settlement was situated near the fortress. Fortification...

Anevo Kale Fortress

Thu, 20 Dec 2007 14:23:00 +0200

The ruins of Anevo Kale fortress, also known by its medieval name Kopsis, are situated in the region of Anevo village near the town of Sopot. Historians believe that the fortress was built during the Second Bulgarian Kingdom in the 13th century and was destroyed in the 14th century. Medieval rules were used in the construction of the fortress. The fortress got its citadel and a town was set up in its vicinities. Archaeologists discovered the remains of four churches and a monastery in the area. The fortress town prospered in the second half of the 13th century. During that period it acted as the main fortress of three governors, Smilets, Radoslav and Voisil. Nowadays Anevo Kale is one of the few well preserved Bulgarian fortresses. Fortress walls that are 12-m high have been kept in good condition. The fortress is accessible for visitors and many tourists come to see it....

Karanovo Settlement Mound

Thu, 20 Dec 2007 13:59:00 +0200

The biggest settlement mound ever discovered in Europe is situated near the village of Karanovo, Nova Zagora district. Seven distinct archaeological layers make up the mound, giving information about the evolution of civilizations. Evidence shows that the region has been inhabited for more than 4000 years. Scientists prepared the Karanovo chronological system, a benchmark method for the comparison of ancient European cultures. Some of the discovered artifacts have been displayed in the specially constructed edifice near the mound.

Alexandrovska Tomb

Thu, 20 Dec 2007 13:57:00 +0200

The tomb of an old Thracian ruler was discovered in 2000, 20 km northeast of the village of Alexandrovsko. Its specific feature is frescoes on the walls and ceilings. Images of humans can rarely be seen in Thracian tombs. This is one of the rare examples. Most of the frescoes depict hunting. Unfortunately, the tomb was robbed by treasure hunters before it was discovered by archaeologists. Today, the tomb is closed for visitors because after its discovery the frescoes started to fade and the walls cracked because of the light. Preservation and restoration works are ongoing.

Starosel Complex

Thu, 20 Dec 2007 13:45:00 +0200

A unique Thracian temple and a mausoleum were discovered in 2000 in the vicinity of Starosel village, near Hissarya. It was built in the 5th century BC. Elements typical for ancient Greek temples can be observed in its architecture. According to researchers, the palace belonged to Thracian king Sitalk from the Odrisi tribe. One of a kind fortified facility protected the hill. Three staircases were found, a front one made of big stone blocs and two small side staircases. The stairs lead to a 15 m long hallway going to a façade with embossment decorations. Two chambers make up the temple, both made of big stone blocks. One is rectangular, the other is a round tomb with a spherical dome. The wine containers found inside lead to the conclusion that some Orpheus rituals were performed there. A big stone vessel was found in the north part of the hill. Ritual wine was...

Peichova Mound Tomb

Thu, 20 Dec 2007 11:58:00 +0200

The tomb of a Thracian nobleman was discovered in 2000 in the Peichova mound near the village of Starosel in the Hissarya region. This well preserved grave was built in a sacred rock and the bodily remains were buried under a stone block. This fact leads to the conclusion that the tomb belonged to a noble Thracian Orpheus follower. Many treasures were found in the grave including three silver horse decoration sets, several silver containers, a full weapon set with gold decoration and a unique ring-stamp with a wild-boar hunt scene pictured on it. A shelter was constructed over the grave, enabling visitors to explore it.

Mogilanska Mound

Thu, 20 Dec 2007 11:56:00 +0200

Mogilanska mound was initially seen as a simple elevation in a house yard in the old part of the town of Vratsa. In the 60s, three tombs were found in the mound. One of them had been robbed back in ancient times. The other two are still preserved. Historians believe that the tombs date back to the 4th century BC. Probably they were the final resting places of Thracian rulers from the tribe of Tribaly that lived in the present day Vratsa region. Artifacts and human body remains found in the tombs signify that distinguished tribe members were buried there. One of them was probably a Thracian princess. A golden tiara, golden earrings and ceremonial containers and objects were found there. Various weapons and a silver knee-pad were found in one of the graves, as well.

Ostrousha Mound

Thu, 20 Dec 2007 11:48:00 +0200

The religious complex in the Ostrousha mound was discovered in 1993. It is situated near Shipka. It dates back to the middle of the 4th century. The complex features six rooms, varying in architectural details. The south entrance leads to a central chamber with three more entrances to the other rooms. One of the chambers is round and domed. The others are made of granite blocks. Sacrifice remains were found in the southwest chamber. A funeral chamber made of one monolith granite block can be seen there. Near the north wall, archaeologists discovered a funeral bed. A monolith granite block covered the funeral chamber. The ceiling is decorated with paintings with golden details. The best preserved image show a woman with short brown hair, earrings and necklace. Probably the complex was robbed by early Christians, who destroyed the pagan images.

Shoushmanets Mound

Thu, 20 Dec 2007 11:46:00 +0200

The Shoushmanets Mound Temple was discovered in 1996 near the town of Shipka. It dates back from the 4th century B.C. The last purpose of the temple was to become the tomb of a local Thracian ruler. The temple is unique because it is the first Thracian temple with column in both the antechamber and the funeral chamber. Sacrifice remains were found in the anteroom. Stylized images of spinning suns covered with red paint were drawn on the door leading to the round chamber. A column rising from the center of the round chamber to the dome supports a big stone disc. The interior of the temple resembles a sun disc with sun rays which makes it one of the most impressive Thracian temples.

Goliama Arsenalka Mound

Thu, 20 Dec 2007 11:43:00 +0200

The Goliama Arsenalka Mound Temple is located near the village of Sheinovo. It was discovered in 1995. The temple dates back to the 5th century BC. Stone blocks were used in the construction. Its beautiful façade is facing southeast. The entrance leads to a rectangular antechamber through a stone door that is missing today. A second entrance leads to the central round domed chamber. The floor in the second chamber is made of stone slabs. The central part of the floor is concave and the slabs form the image of a sun which is the main Thracian Symbol. Three concentric rings around the sun describe the Thracian vision of the universe built of three parts – the underground kingdom, the earthly kingdom and the celestial kingdom. Some golden ornaments were found in the gaps between the slabs.

Griffon Mound

Thu, 20 Dec 2007 11:41:00 +0200

The Griffon Mound Temple was found on August 15 1996. It dates back to the 5th century BC. This temple functioned until the mid 4th century BC. It was used as the tomb of a noble Thracian. The name of the hill and the temple came from the images of griffons on the entrance. The façade entrance leads to a rectangular antechamber. A door that is missing now led to the round domed chamber. A ceremonial bed made of stone slabs is situated against the entrance in the funeral chamber. The tomb was robbed in the antiquity.

Goliama Kosmatka Mound

Thu, 20 Dec 2007 11:38:00 +0200

The temple found in the Goliama Kosmatka mound dates back to the second half of the 5th century Bc. Few floral elements have been preserved on the marble door of its chamber. These ornaments symbolize the four directions and the life cycle. A unique gold garland was found in the very center of the tomb, as well as a gold wine cup and military equipment. A bronze statue representing the head of king of king Seut III was ceremonially buried in front of the tomb. The entrance of the tomb is from south. There are four rooms in the tomb – a corridor, an antechamber, a round chamber and a rectangular chamber. The last mentioned is built of two monolithic stone blocks and was used as a sarcophagus. Dionysus, an ancient god, has been drawn on the marble door that closes the marble chamber. He was pictured as the sun on the eastern part of the door and as the earth and night...

Helvetia Mound

Thu, 20 Dec 2007 11:35:00 +0200

The temple on Helvetia mound, near the little town of Shipka, was found in 1996. The mound was named after the Swiss donations used for the research there (Helvetia is an old name of Switzerland). A corridor built of crumbled stones, an antechamber with a sanctuary and a rectangular chamber make up the temple. The floors of all three rooms, as well as the walls of the antechamber and the chamber, are plastered with a thick lime coat. One massive, two-fold door leads to the chamber. It opens to reveal a ceremonial bed positioned against the door. Built of small stones and plastered with lime, the bed was destroyed during the excavation works. An aura of mystery surrounds the huge door. Its locking mechanism allows the chamber to be sealed from the inside. During the 4th century BC., the edifice was used as a temple but after the final funeral the corridor had been stuffed...

Bulgaria's Archaeological Heritage

Thu, 20 Dec 2007 11:31:00 +0200

Bulgarian land keeps evidence of numerous historic events. Tombs and ancient temples have been uncovered time and time again to prove this fact. Archaeologists were able to find a number of such valuable sites before treasure hunters got their turn. These ancient discoveries determine Bulgaria as an interesting destination for those interested in history and archeology. Most of the tombs and temples discovered have Thracian origin. A number of finds also date back to Roman and early Byzantine periods. Historians were able to learn lots about Bulgarian developments from remains they discovered, dating back to the First and Second Bulgarian kingdoms. Most remains have been found in the Kazanluk valley, also known as Bulgaria’s rose valley or the valley of Thracian kings. Various sites were uncovered in the Rhodope Mountains. Discoveries are still happening to day...

Tatoul

Wed, 12 Dec 2007 14:36:00 +0200

The village of Tatoul is located close to Momchilgrad. A megalith complex has been uncovered several hundred meters away from the village. The ancient remains amaze with their uniqueness and compete with the similar finding of Perperikon. Archaeologists are still exploring the remains. According to them, the complex is a Thracian creation, which changed its function with the coming of Romans, Christians and Byzantines to the region. The fate of Perperikon was similar. Two graves have been positioned in a key location and all rituals and immolations happened around them. Hypotheses are still unsupported by facts but according to archaeologists, the sanctuary and graves might have been connected to the mythical king Orpheus. Findings show that Thracians had several rituals performed during the autumn equinox, connected to the recently found cave in the region- Voulvata....

Perperikon

Wed, 12 Dec 2007 14:30:00 +0200

A large archaeological complex, Perperikon brings together information about several eras and civilizations. Perperikon is situated in the Eastern Rhodope region, 15 km away from the town of Kurdzhali. Over the years archaeologists and treasure hunters explored the 470-m high hill, where Perperikon is located. The most important works began in 2000 and are still ongoing. Large part of the complex is probably still undiscovered. Historians believe that the megalith complex served as a stone sanctuary of Dionysus, a god that both Thracians and Greeks revered. A large number of human and animal sacrifices probably took place there. A two-meter high stone altar served the purpose. The rituals also involved the usage of fire and wine. The hill hosts a stone temple. This construction signifies development of civilization that used stone both as a tool and as a construction...

Buynovo Gorge

Thu, 06 Dec 2007 15:52:00 +0200

Nature is timeless and majestic. Cliffs change their form, riverbeds shift. But the feeling of beauty and endlessness persists. Mountain nature with its harshness makes people feel tiny bits of something grand, too ephemeral to leave behind a notable trace. The Buynovo gorge is a demonstration of this natural grandness. The gorge is located in the Western Rhodope region, between the villages of Yagodina and Teshel. It is situated along the shores of the Buynovska River. Parallel to it runs the Trigrad gorge, even more impressive with its cliffs. Buynovska River can be followed either via an eco path or the road to Teshel. The narrowest point of the gorge is called Vuclhi Skok (wolf jump). At this spot, the cliffs from the two sides of the gorge almost touch each other at height of three to four m above the road. A cave is situated above this natural phenomenon. It...

Bourgas Ethnographic Museum

Wed, 07 Nov 2007 13:04:00 +0200

The ethnographic museum of Bourgas is situated in the central part of the city, near St. St. Cyril and Methodius Cathedral. The collection has been placed in one of the most beautiful Bourgas buildings from the mid-19th century. Several halls bring together the museum’s unique collection of traditional clothing from all ethnographic groups of the Bourgas region. The permanent exposition occupies two floors of the building. The first level presents the interior of a house from the end of the 19th and the beginning of the 20th century. Original furniture made by Bulgarian craftsmen can be seen there. Official female clothing demonstrates the fashion style from the beginning of the 20th century. One of the unusual items is a dress that a well-known Bourgas woman purchased from Paris. Traditional culture and lifestyle from the same period can be explored on the...