Cultural heritage and UNESCO sites in Bulgaria

Bulgaria

Cultural heritage and UNESCO sites in Bulgaria

Self-Drive

Les point forts du voyage

Avis Balkania Tour

The trip will allow you to discover the great treasures of Bulgaria, its roots, traditions, and way of life which crosses regions with highly developed cultural identities. You will get a taste of Bulgarian heritage and visit protected sites included in the UNESCO World Heritage list.

The route, despite its short duration will allow you to visit numerous sites, such as:
-    The Bulgarian capital Sofia, and its architectural and historical wealth (Boyana Church – UNESCO site)
-    Glozhene Monastery
-    Troyan Monastery
-    Koprivshtitsa and its many house museums.
-    The Thracian sanctuary of Starosel
-    Hisar and its Roman ruins
-    The Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak (UNESCO site)
-    The Russian Church in Shipka
-    Etar Open Air Museum
-    Sokolovo Monastery
-    Tryavna, a town with rich traditions and history
-    The old capital of Veliko Tarnovo and the Tsarevets Fortress
-    The Transfiguration Monastery
-    Ivanovo Rock Monasteries (UNESCO site)
-    Basarbovo Monastery
-    The pretty mountain village of Zheravna
-    Old Town of Nesebar (UNESCO site)
-    Bachkovo Monastery
-    The picturesque Rhodope village of Shiroka Laka
-    Pirin National Park (UNESCO site)
-    Old Quarter of Bansko
-    Melnik, with great wine, nature and history
-    Melnik Pyramids
-    Rozhen Monastery
-    Rila Monastery (UNESCO site)

The route can be changed according to places of your interest and the time you wish to spend there. You will no doubt be surprised by the wealth of the country and the diversity of cultural and natural sites. For more information, take a look at the destinations listed below. You can also download and print a detailed program of the trip by clicking on the Download button.

We remind you that the proposed trips are created by our team. Feel free to contact us if you wish to make corrections to either the route or its duration. We are at your disposal to answer all your questions about the trip or any possible changes (if you want to make changes to the trip, please fill out the Tailor-Made Request form).

Thoughts from Balkania Tour:
This trip can be viewed as an extension of the self-drive tour Walk in the Heart of the Balkans (12 days/11 nights). It is a similar route that will allow you to discover not only the Balkan region but also the Rhodopes in the South, the Black Sea in the East, and the Danube River in the North, all at a relaxing pace thanks to the duration of the trip. The additional three days are cleverly distributed along the route to let you get better acquainted with the visited regions. In addition to all Bulgarian cultural sites on the UNESCO World Heritage list, you will have the opportunity to visit a number of other cultural and natural sites, the hinterland with its pretty villages and monasteries, some of which you can choose to spend the night in.
In conclusion, the proposed route has a strong cultural emphasis, and nature lovers will have some chances to take some short walks in the mountains. Because of the nature of the self-drive tour, you will have the ability to customize and adapt the trip according to your personal preferences.

Vous decouvriez...

Sofia
Koprivshtitsa
Sokolovo monastery
Veliko Tarnovo
Monastery of the Transfiguration
Nesebar
Plovdiv
Melnik

Your Adviser

Georges KANEV

+44/ 79.69.72.96.83 gkanev@balkania-tour.com

Book Request a change

Duration

15 days/ 14 nights

choisissez vous meme les dates du depart

start from

1090 €

par personne, hors vols internationaux

Price Details

Period	per person in double room	per person in single room
from 01 April from 30 April	1090 €	1790 €
from 01 May from 30 June	1150 €	1890 €
from 01 July from 31 August	1350 €	2250 €
from 01 September from 30 September	1150 €	1890 €
from 01 October from 31 October	1090 €	1790 €

Price includes

- Private Transfer Airport > Hotel > Airport- Delivery of the car on the day of departure from Sofia and return of the car at the hotel the night before departure.- Rental Car - Economy class (2 passengers - example Opel Corsa , Ford Fiesta , etc . ) , Middle class (3 passengers - example Opel Astra, Renault Megane , Ford Focus , etc . ) Or high class (4 passengers - Ford Mondeo example , Skoda Octavian , Opel Vectra and others. ) , unlimited mileage , insurance Auto Casco , vignette for Bulgaria, included option for a second driver , emergency line 24/24 ) - Accommodation (based on accommodation - double room) .- Board - Breakfast- Electronic guide with practical tips- Access to the Balkania Tour team 24 hours a day- Exclusive special discounts for customers of Balkania Tour

Price does not include

- Visits to sites mentioned in the program- Fuel- Parking fees for sites mentioned in the program- Travel expenses- Drinks and personal expenses- Flight ticket / return (check the price of flights in real time and book directly on our website)- Airport taxes- Cancellation insurance, repatriation and medical expenses ( Cancellation - 3.3% of the travel price with a minimum of 16 € / person ; all risks - 4.8% of the travel price with a minimum of 32 € / person).- Local guides - We can offer you a guided tour in Bulgarian of the following cities - Sofia, Plovdiv , Veliko Tarnovo 120 lev for half a day and 200 lev for all day.

Additional information

Discounts for Children
- Children under 2 years - free. Does not include child seat. Children will share a room with parents (crib or extra bed).
- Children from 2 to 12 years - 20% discount. Children will share a room with parents (extra bed).
- Maximum of 2 children can share a room with 2 adults.

No maximum number of participants. For groups larger than 6 people, please send us an inquiry to make you a custom offer for your group. If you do not use the designated hotels in the program, there will be no compensation and hotels will be at your expense.

Rental car
A depost of 100 € to 300 € must be paid upon delivery of the car, depending on the category of the car. It will be refunded upon return of the vehicle, if there are no damages to it.

Rental car with a driver or with a driver/guide
In the case of traveling with a driver/guide, they are responsible for the vehicle, and no deposit is required.

Tour with rental car with driver
Driver services are limited according to the instructions previously specified by Balkania Tour and the customer. Drivers speak the language of the destination and English.

Tour with rental car with driver/guide
In addition to driving throughout the journey, the guide will provide you with information on the different aspects of life in the destination you are interested in, and provide you with tips for a more rational and succesful trip.

GPS
IMPORTANT: In the event of a failure or problem with a GPS during the journey, Balkania Tour does not replace the faulty unit with a new one.

Hotels
The proposed hotels can be replaced with others of the same category.

Route
The proposed route may be changed without notice in the event of unforseen circumstances, bad weather conditions, or local circumstances. During national or religious holidays, some visits may be limited or eliminated, and will not be eligible for compensation.

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Glozhenski manastirOreshakBeklemetoKoprivshtitsa {"0":{"name":"Glozhenski manastir","km":"87,1 km - 1 heure 16 min"},"1":{"name":"Oreshak","km":"37,5 km - 51 minutes"},"2":{"name":"Beklemeto","km":"60,4 km - 1 heure 5 min"},"3":{"name":"Koprivshtitsa","km":"Total: 185 km - 3 heure 11 minutes"}}

KoprivshtitsaStaroselKazanlakTryavna {"0":{"name":"Koprivshtitsa","km":"46,3 km - 52 minutos"},"1":{"name":"Starosel","km":"89,6 km - 1 heure 18 min"},"2":{"name":"Kazanlak","km":"62,4 km - 1 heure 19 min"},"3":{"name":"Tryavna","km":"Total: 198 km - 3 hora 29 minutos"}}

TryavnaVeliko TarnovoArbanasi {"0":{"name":"Tryavna","km":"41,2 km - 48 minutos"},"1":{"name":"Veliko Tarnovo","km":"6,2 km - 12 minutos"},"2":{"name":"Arbanasi","km":"Total: 47 km - 1 hora 0 minutos"}}

ArbanasiRuse {"0":{"name":"Arbanasi","km":"106 km - 1 heure 32 min"},"1":{"name":"Ruse","km":"Total: 106 km - 1 heure 32 minutes"}}

RuseSveshtariMadaraVarna {"0":{"name":"Ruse","km":"84,1 km - 1 heure 27 min"},"1":{"name":"Sveshtari","km":"78,7 km - 1 heure 16 min"},"2":{"name":"Madara","km":"76,1 km - 56 minutes"},"3":{"name":"Varna","km":"Total: 239 km - 3 heure 40 minutes"}}

VarnaKamtchiaNessebar {"0":{"name":"Varna","km":"39,4 km - 53 minutes"},"1":{"name":"Kamtchia","km":"73,7 km - 1 heure 27 min"},"2":{"name":"Nessebar","km":"Total: 113 km - 2 heure 19 minutes"}}

NessebarBurgasSozopolZheravna {"0":{"name":"Nessebar","km":"36,5 km - 41 minutes"},"1":{"name":"Burgas","km":"34,7 km - 32 minutes"},"2":{"name":"Sozopol","km":"149 km - 1 heure 55 min"},"3":{"name":"Zheravna","km":"Total: 220 km - 3 heure 7 minutes"}}

ZheravnaSlivenPlovdiv {"0":{"name":"Zheravna","km":"48,2 km - 57 minutes"},"1":{"name":"Sliven","km":"187 km - 2 heures 6 minutes"},"2":{"name":"Plovdiv","km":"Total: 235 km - 3 heure 3 minutes"}}

PlovdivBachkovoShiroka Laka {"0":{"name":"Plovdiv","km":"26,2 km - 34 minutes"},"1":{"name":"Bachkovo","km":"66,4 km - 1 heure 19 min"},"2":{"name":"Shiroka Laka","km":"Total: 93 km - 1 heure 53 minutes"}}

Shiroka LakaKovachevitsaBansko {"0":{"name":"Shiroka Laka","km":"116 km - 2 heures 31 minutes"},"1":{"name":"Kovachevica","km":"63,0 km - 1 heure 13 min"},"2":{"name":"Bansko","km":"Total: 179 km - 3 heure 44 minutes"}}

BanskoMelnikRilski manastir {"0":{"name":"Bansko","km":"105 km - 1 heure 39 min"},"1":{"name":"Melnik","km":"118 km - 1 heure 55 min"},"2":{"name":"Rilski manastir","km":"Total: 223 km - 3 heure 34 minutes"}}

Rilski manastirSofia {"0":{"name":"Rilski manastir","km":"117 km - 1 heure 43 min"},"1":{"name":"Sofia","km":"Total: 117 km - 1 hora 43 minutos"}}

Sofia {"0":{"name":"Sofia","km":"1 m - 1 minute"},"1":{"name":"Sofia","km":"Total: 0 km - 0 heure 0 minutes"}}

Tour Info

Hotels

Optional services

Cultural Events

Day 1

Arrival at the Bulgarian capital

Sofia

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Premade route

Map of sites

Arrival at the Bulgarian capital

Sofia

Arrival at the Bulgarian capital

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Sofia

The city of Sofia is an open-air museum that tells the story of Bulgaria from the Neolithic to the present day.

Indeed, the region of Sofia is the site of a very ancient human settlement, dating back to the Neolithic (beginning of the 5th millennium BC). Traces of several villages from this period have been discovered in the area and a human settlement dating back to the Chalcolithic has been discovered in the town center.

The main settlement of the Thracian Serd tribe was on the site of present-day Sofia. This tribe gave its name to the city - Serdica - which they built in the 7th century BC. J.-C.
In 29 AD, the city was conquered by the Romans who made it the capital of the province of Dacia. In the third century, the Romans built thick walls around the town of Serdica.

But in 441 these walls were not enough to push back the Huns. The city is taken and pillaged. It will be rebuilt by the Byzantine emperor Justinian I, under the name of Triaditsa.

In 809 the city was conquered by the Bulgarians and it took the name of Sredets. It was quickly regarded as one of the most important feudal cities.

In 1382, it was taken by the Ottomans who made it the capital of the province of Roumelia. This occupation plunges the city into decline, and it becomes a simple large town.

After the liberation of Bulgaria, the city became in 1879 the capital of the 3rd Bulgarian Kingdom. It quickly changes face, transforming itself into a modern western metropolis. The plans drawn up in 1881-1882 were followed by a period of construction of brick buildings and right-angled pathways. Several buildings and parks in the current city center date back to this time. It is a time of renewal for the city. The city council approved in 1900 the emblem of Sofia and its motto: "Grows but does not get old".

Under the communist regime (September 9, 1944 - November 10, 1989), Sofia became the main economic, cultural, scientific, educational center of Bulgaria. In 1992, the Government chose, in honor of Hagia Sophia, Martyrdom, September 17 as the day for the city of Sofia. The flag of the Municipality of Sofia was consecrated on the same day.

The many monuments of Sofia are proof and testimonies of the eventful past of the city and the country. A stroll through the city center is an opportunity to admire many historical and architectural treasures.

So you can discover: St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, St Nicholas Russian Church, St George Rotunda, Archaeological Museum, National Palace of Culture (NDK), Ivan Vazov National Theater, Sofia Market Halls, Sveta Nedelia Church, Mount Vitosha, Dragalevtsi Monastery, Sofia Art Gallery, Saint Sophia Church, Sts. Cyril and Method, the Ethnographic Museum, the Museum of Natural Sciences ...
On the outskirts of town you can also discover Boyana Church, whose frescoes dating back to the middle of the 13th century are one of the most important Bulgarian and European cultural relics.

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Day 2

Along the Iskar Gorge

SofiaSvogeCherepishki manastirGlozhenski manastir

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Premade route

Additional detours

Map of sites

Iskar Gorge

Sofia

Cherepish Monastery

Cherepishki manastir

Ritlite

Luti brod

Saeva Dupka Cave

Brestnitsa

Glozhene Monastery

Glozhenski manastir

Iskar Gorge

The Iskar Gorge is located not far from Sofia, where the Iskar River crosses through the Balkan Mountains. According to scientists, the river existed before the formation of the mountains, and after the mountain range was formed the river began to rise, slowly cutting its way through the mountains. The combination of water and stone offers many natural surprises, beautiful landscapes, caves and natural phenomena. This is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and picturesque places in the country.

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Cherepish Monastery

The Cherepish Monastery is located 29 kilometers southeast of the town of Vratsa, on the bank of the Iskar River. Built during the reign of Tsar Ivan Shishman (1371-1395), legends say that its name comes from the white bones of fallen soldiers at the Battle of Tsar Shishman against the Ottoman invaders, which took place nearby.
At the end of the 16th century St. Pimen Zografski (iconographer, literary, and church builder) restored the monastery, and it became a cultural and spiritual center whose activities continued during the following centuries, despite the incessant attacks of the Ottoman bandits (Kurdzhali).
In 1784 a two story ossuary was built in the mountains above the monastery. The houses that can be seen there today date from 1836. The oldest preserved frescoes in the monastery church date go all the way back to the 16th century.
The great Bulgarian writer Ivan Vasov often came to pray and seek inspiration in the monastery. There is also a small museum dedicated to him.

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Ritlite

Ritlite is a natural landmark located on an area of 123 hectares, on the left bank of the Iskar River above the village of Lyutibrod. It consists of four parallel rock walls with a length of 200 meters. It is part of the protected area of the Vratsa Balkan Natural Park.
The name comes from the walls’ similarity to the side of an oxcart. East of the rocks is the village of Kortingrad, surrounded by the remains of at least nine medieval Bulgarian churches. The best preserved of these churches is dedicated to St. George, and dates back to the 10th or 11th century. Kortingrad has not existed since the 17th century, but some of its inhabitants founded the present village of Lyutibrod.
One of the most famous hiking trails in the region is the one joining Lyutibrod with the Okolchitsa rest-house. The path follows the route of the retreat of Hristo Botev’s revolutionaries after the death of the great Bulgarian poet in 1876. Near Ritlite is the historic area Rashov Dol, which in recent years is host to a reenactment of the last battles of the revolutionaries on June 3rd. Next to it is a small chapel and a plaque in memory of the years of struggle and hope.

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Saeva Dupka Cave

The Saeva Dupka Cave is inarguably one of the prettiest caves in Bulgaria. It is located 3 kilometers south of the village Brestnitsa, in the Lovech municipality. The cave is the result of strong karst activity, which the region is known for. Furthermore, in northwest Brestnitza is the largest karst spring in Bulgaria – Chapter Panega.
The cave is named after the twin brothers Seyu and Sae, who used the cave as a shelter during the Ottoman rule. It is located at an altitude of 500 meters, has a length of 480 meters, and a varying height of 5 to 17 meters. Its total area is 3500 square meters, divided into five chambers. The thickness of the chambers varies from 8 to 32.5 meters. The temperature is relatively stable, between 7 and 11.6 degrees. The humidity is quite high, at 96 to 99%.
A place of exceptional form, rare beauty, this cave is a magical place designed by the creative force of nature, and amazes every time.

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Glozhene Monastery

The small village of Glozhene is located at the foot of Mount Lisets. The surroundings of the village are fascinating, and there is a wonderful view from the monastery which is situated on top of a rocky peak. It was founded by the Ukranian prince Gregory Glozh, which is where the name of Glozhene originates from. The monastery has had a turbulent and mysterious history. The original monastery was established in the 13th century and existed until the 17th century. Later, the monks built a new monastery at the top of the peak to avoid the attacks of the Ottomans. It is dedicated to St. George the Victorious. The original church was partially destroyed after an earthquake in 1913. Since it’s restoration, the monastery is accessed by sometimes quite narrow asphalt road. The Glozhene monastery is now recognized as an architectural and historical monument.
The area is filled with beautiful and extremely diverse nature, forest and ancient trees, cliffs, fragrant meadows, waterfalls, and caves. There is an easy tourist trail going through the Tzatitchina Biosphere Reserve.

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Vazov Eco-Trail

Gara Bov

Vratsa

Tower of the Offenders - Vratsa

Vratsa

Kurtpashov Tower - Vratsa

Vratsa

Vratsa Regional History Museum

Vratsa

Rogozen Thracian Treasure

Vratsa

St. Sophronius of Vratsa Ethnographic Complex

Vratsa

Vratsa Pass

Vratsa

Ledenika Cave

Vratsa

Kaleto Archaeological Complex

Mezdra

Blue Ostrich Farm - Brestnitsa

Brestnitsa

Vazov Eco-Trail

The Vazov Eco-Trail is named after one of the greatest Bulgarian writers – Ivan Vasov. He visited this area to find inspiration for his works. The trail starts from the Koshushtitsa neighborhood, crosses the Iskar River, winds by the Skaklya waterfall (85 meters high, with irregular flow depending on the season) and climbs up the peak near the village of Zasele, ending with a stunning view of the Iskar Gorge.
It was built in 1972 by the local residents, and its steadily increasing popularity has earned the status of a national tourist destination. The trail was renovated in 2007. It is in very good condition, with small bridges that cross the stream, benches, and easy to follow, thanks to the safety signs. Many railings and stone steps provide easy transition to inaccessible areas. Wooden gazebos at the end of the trail are used to picnic and to enjoy the exceptional view.
To reach the trail you need to go through Gara Bov (coming from Sofia), pass the bridge over the Iskar River, and go left along the Skaklya River. There will be a sign 1.4 kilometers from the trail. At the end of the street, before the bridge you will find a small makeshift parking lot. Following the river, you will quickly find the indications to the path.
The length of the eco-trail is about an hour and 30 minutes at a normal walking pace. If you make a trip to the village you will find a very nice crème caramel in the local grocery store (which is part of the “Elata” complex. It will give you strength for the descent.
Those who wish to enjoy the view of Zasele without walking can go by car. A nameplate from the main road shows the way to the Vazpv trail and the village of Zasele (before the village of Gara Bov coming from Sofia).

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Vratsa

The town of Vratsa is the largest town in Northwestern Bulgaria. Located at the foot of the Vratsa Balkans, it is the starting point of many trails that lead to caves, waterfalls, and rock formations, including the Ledenika Cave, Skaklya Waterfall and the Vratsa Pass.
The wealth of the mountain first attracted people from the second millennium B.C. The Thracian Triballian tribe successfully resisted the attacks of Phillip II and his son Alexander the Great. Historians believe that Vratsa was their capital.
When they conquered Thrace, the Romans increased security in the region by building a powerful fortress over the Leva River, on the Vratsa Pass.
The town held an extremely important role in the defensive system of Bulgaria in the Middle Ages. It was rewarded many times by the Bulgarian Kings for the resilience of its defenders.
Today, the town is home to the largest Rogozen Treasure, the largest Thracian treasure ever found, many medieval buildings such as the clock tower and Kurtpashov Tower, and interesting museums like the Ethnographic Museum, which has an exhibit of beautiful carriages.
Vratsa is a green and peaceful town surrounded by mountains, with a pleasant pedestrian area that invites you to take a nice walk. This is a town that deserves to be seen.

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Tower of the Offenders - Vratsa

The Clock Tower is a symbol of the town of Vratsa. It is found near the administrative building of the municipality of Vratsa. It is thought to be built in the 16th century. Originally it was used as a fortified residence before being turned into a clock tower in the 19th century. The last renovation was in 2006, which added some new decorative lighting.
A rough translation of the name comes out as the Tower of the Offenders. Local members of the high-class gained significant power in the 16th century. They played an important role in the society, determining the taxes imposed by the government. Often driven by greed, they often interfered in the relations between the public and the government. This tower was designed to meet the needs of local leaders at a time of severe social instability, insurrections, and attacks by thieves who constantly threatened them.

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Kurtpashov Tower - Vratsa

The Kurtpashov Tower is located in the western part of the central square in Vratsa, bordering the Regional History Museum. It is a square-shaped structure with a length of 5.9 meters, and a height of 11 meters.

Along with the Tower of Offenders nearby, it is one of the few buildings in the town that survived the Ottoman era. It was used as a fortified residence of a local feudal lord. It dates back to the 17th century, but it shares many similarities with the fortresses of the Bulgarian Middle Ages (14th century). It includes a basement storage area on the ground floor and two residential floors. The residential floors also have defensive openings. The detachable stairs provided access to the upper floors for greater security. The last two floors are separated by a double bar filled with mortar and stone to prevent fires.

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Vratsa Regional History Museum

The Regional History Museum is located in the center of Vratsa in the southern part of the main square. Established in 1953, it has resided in its current building since 1980. Its collections are displayed in nine exhibition halls in three parts. One of the most famous exhibits is the Rogozen Treasure, which is displayed in museums worldwide. This is the largest Thracian treasure ever discovered.
The museum holds the oldest human skeleton found in Bulgaria, which is 8,000 years old. It also contains ancient tiles and pottery with pictograms, thought to be the oldest examples of writing in the world.
The museum is divided into periods and includes:
-Rogozen Treasure
-Thracian treasures
-Archaeology
-History of Bulgaria from the 15th-19th century in the Botev Hall
-Modern History Hall
- Winner of the International Botev Award
-An Art – Museum of Paper
-Stone Rainbow – an exhibit consisting of about 1,000 minerals, rocks, and fossils.
The Sophronius of Vratsa and Nicolas Voyvodosa Ethnographic Museum is connected to the Region History Museum.

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Rogozen Thracian Treasure

The Rogozen Thracian Treasure was found in the yard of a house in the village of Rogozen during 1985-1986. It was the discovery of the century. It consists of 165 gold and silver objects, weighing over 20 kilograms, making it the largest Thracian treasure ever found in Bulgaria.
The differences in the styles and techniques used in the production of these objects suggest that they were produced at different times and in different places. The artifacts date from the late 6th century to the first half of the 4th century B.C.
Archaeologists suggest that the treasure belonged to a prominent family in the area, a local Thracian dynasty from the time of the great expansion of Thracian power and culture in the Balkan Peninsula. Some of the objects carry the names of the Odryssian King Cotis, and his son Kersebleptes.
The majority of the treasure is kept in the Historical Museum of Vratsa, and 15 items are kept at the National History Museum in Sofia.

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St. Sophronius of Vratsa Ethnographic Complex

The St. Sophronius of Vratsa Ethnographic Complex is attached to the Vratsa Regional History Museum. It presents ethnographic and architectural exhibitions created between 1972 and 1987. They include three houses from the Renaissance era and the Ascension school, situated near the temple/monument of St. Sophronius of Vratsa. The exhibition presents the lifestyle, traditional crafts, and culture of the Vratsa region during the late 19th century and the middle of the 20th century.
The house of one of the richest men in Northwest Bulgaria, Dimitraki Hadzhitoshev, displays the interior of a 19th century house. In the house of Ivan Zambin various crafts are presented, such as winemaking, viticulture, and sericulture. One of the largest exhibitions of the museums displays the carriages designed by Mito Orozov, a local manufacturer.

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Vratsa Pass

Vratsa Pass is found in the Vratsa Balkan Nature Preserve, and is one of the main entryways into the town. A symbol of Vratsa, its name is tightly connected with this place.
The pass is а gorge of the Leva River, stretching over an area of two hectares. The cliffs are the highest in the Balkan Peninsula (400 meters). Not surprisingly, it is the most popular alpine site in Bulgaria. It is divided into three parts, with over 140 climbing routes of varying difficulty (over 300 in the region), some of which are emblematic for Bulgarian climbers (The Mirrors, Second Congress Bracket, and Dogtooth). In the gorge there are preserved traces of the medieval fortress Vratitsa (10th century) which protected it.

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Ledenika Cave

The Ledenika Cave is one most visited in Bulgaria. It is open all year round and is located only 16 kilometers away from Vratsa. The road that leads there goes through the Vratsa Pass, ending at an altitude of 830 meters at the entrance of the cave. The cave is 320 meters long and has 10 chambers. The first chamber is the one that gives the cave its name. In fact, it becomes a real freezer in the winter, with temperatures falling to -20 degrees Celsius and the formation of large ice columns. This is an interesting phenomenon, as the temperature in the rest of the cave remains between 8 and 16 degrees Celsius, with 92% humidity.
The halls and formations in the cave are among the most beautiful in Bulgaria – the “Lake of Desires”, “Passage of the Sinners”, and “Concert Hall are some of the most attractive. Huge, impressive and beautiful with exceptional acoustics, it is regularly used by the Vratsa Philharmonic for performances.
The lights, bridges, railings, and stairs were renovated to make the visit even more enjoyable. There are several fields around the cave that are great for a picnic. If you desire, you can also go for a ride on horseback through the surrounding area.

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Kaleto Archaeological Complex

In the southeast part of the town of Mezdra, on a rocky hill perched on the left bank of the Iskar river is a preserved piece of history seven centuries old, showcased today at the Kaleto Archaeological Complex. A tour of the complex will reveal the lifestyle of the people who inhabited these lands from ancient times to the middle ages. In the exhibition halls are found various archaeological sites from five different historical periods. The old fortress/complex is located on a strategic road, linking up the Roman colony Eskus with Serdika in Sofia. Visitors can also learn about ceramics and painting in the studios of local artisans.

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Blue Ostrich Farm - Brestnitsa

The Blue Ostrich Farm was established in 2001 in the village of Brestnitsa, near the Saeva Dupka Cave. The farm allows visitors to learn more about ostriches, but also about products derived from birds, such as feathers, eggs, leather, meat, etc. These products allow the farm to continue operating. If you are looking for an original gift, here you can find engraved and painted eggs 25 to 30 times larger than those of chickens, with a 1 to 3 millimeter thickness. They are durable and easy to transport.

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Day 3

Traditions and crafts

Glozhenski manastirOreshakBeklemetoKoprivshtitsa

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Premade route

Additional detours

Map of sites

Troyan Monastery

Oreshak

Beklemeto (The Troyan Pass)

Troyan

Koprivshtitsa

Oslekov House

Koprivshtitsa

Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Church - Koprivshtitsa

Koprivshtitsa

Lyutov House - Koprivshtitsa

Koprivshtitsa

Troyan Monastery

You will follow the north slopes of the Central Balkan towards the town of Troyan. A couple kilometers from the town, in the village of Oreshak, awaits one of the most important Bulgarian monasteries - the Troyan Monastery.

The name of the town of Troyan is linked to the ancient Roman road - Via Traiana - linking Moesia and Thrace to the Aegean Sea.
The foundation of the city dates back to the early 15th century when Bulgarians settled in this very inaccessible place to escape from the power of the Ottomans. Pottery and woodcarving crafts were among the most developed and allowed the enrichment of the city where talented architects have created beautiful models of the Bulgarian ecclesiastical architecture in the city and the region: for example, The Church of the Assumption in the Monastery of Troyan, once the refuge of Vasil Levski.
Built towards the end of the 16th century, it was the location of some political and religious events. It was rebuilt in 1835 and decorated in 1848 by the artist Zahari Zograf. The Troyan Monastery remains a Mecca of Bulgarian spirituality. This is the third most important monastery in the country.

Just next to it is located an exposition of the arts and trades of the master craftsmen in the country. We advise you to visit it because this is also an opportunity to buy some quality souvenirs or valuable objects.

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Beklemeto (The Troyan Pass)

You will depart for Koprivshtitsa through Beklemeto.

The Thracian Passage (Beklemeto) connects the village of Karnare to the south with the town of Troyan to the north. The passage runs through them, and is one of the highest in Bulgaria with a sea level of 1565 meters. The tedious road compensates for its many twists and turns with a breathtaking view. While passing through, you will find remnants of an old Roman road made during the reign of Troyan as well as the defenses built around it. These are a testament to its important role during the time of the Romans. Near its highest point there is a massive concrete arch. Standing at a height of 35 meters, the “Arch of Freedom” is a stunning site.

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Koprivshtitsa

The colorful town of Koprivshtitsa played a major part in the Great Revolution of April 1876 for the liberation from Ottoman rule.
Preserved in its authentic appearance, nestled in the mountains, the town holds a page of Bulgarian history which deserves to be told. Most of the houses are built of wood, painted in bright colours and give a unique touch to the relaxing atmosphere of this place. There are many house-museums retracing the glorious history of this small town.

You will be able to visit house-museums of famous Bulgarians such as Kablechkov, Debelanov, Karavelov, or Benkovski who were revolutionary writers and are nowadays considered heroes. The Lyutov and Oslekov houses, as well as the Church of St. Nikolai are also a must-see and will give you an idea of what life was like here more than a century ago.

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Oslekov House

The Oslekov House was built from 1853 – 1856 for the wealthy businessman Nencho Oslekov, who was a producer and trader of textiles. In his workshops were sewn clothes for the participants in the April Uprising of 1876. Following the Uprising, he was arrested and hung due to his participation.
The house was built be the craftsman Mincho, and the murals were painted by the Renaissance mason Costa Zograf, both from the town of Samokov. It was designed in an asymmetrical shape due to the small building area. There is a central area, and an additional wing. Three cedar columns support the second floor, and the house features a wooden staircase on the outside.
The Oslekov House is a fascinating house with unique construction and stunning frescoes. This is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful houses in Koprivshtitsa. Since 1956 it operates as an ethnographic museum. In the exhibition you can find everyday objects, horsehair embroideries, decorations, and tools used by Koprivshtitsa tailors.

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Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Church - Koprivshtitsa

The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Church in Koprivshtitsa was built in 1817, on the location of a previous church that was burned by Kurdzhali (generally deserters from the Ottoman army who benefitted from the lack of government power and preformed attacks against the Christian population).
Local guilds received permission from the Sultan to construct the church. Architecturally, it is a basilica. The building is low, dimly lit, and painted like an ordinary house, so as to not attract attention during this tumultuous time. The iconastasis is the work of one of the greatest craftsmen of Bulgaria, Georgi Hadji of Vidin, a representative of the school of Tryavna. The church has preserved icons of great artistic value.
In the churchyard, there were once housed two convents of the Hilandar and Rila Monasteries. The followers created the first monastery schools in Koprivshtitsa.

The belfry was placed later in 1896, thanks to donations from the illustrious merchant Hadji Nencho Palaveyev, the richest Bulgarian of all time. He financed the construction of many public buildings in Koprivshtitsa and created a guaranteed fund to ensure the development of the city in the future. In 1980, the communist leaders declared that the money had run out. Nencho Palaveyev was buried in the churchyard in 1936. According to legend, his restless soul wanders the streets of Koprivshtitsa, unhappy at the loss of his fortune, which he bequeathed to the city.

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Lyutov House - Koprivshtitsa

The Lyutov House is another gorgeous example of Renaissance culture. Built in 1854 by architects and craftsmen of Plovdiv, the house features impressive painted walls and elaborately carved ceilings. It was sold to a businessman named Petko Lyutov in 1906, from whom its modern name derives.
Koprivshitsa plasti (woven unspun wool), used not only for bedding but also to cover the soil can be found in the exhibition on the ground floor. In the 19th century house can be found many domestic items colored with natural dyes, which enhance the beauty of the structure.

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Oreshak Exhibition of Arts and Crafts

Oreshak

Kableshkov House - Koprivshtitsa

Koprivshtitsa

Oreshak Exhibition of Arts and Crafts

The Exhibition of Arts and Crafts in Oreshak is the only exhibition in Bulgaria where you can see the unique crafts of all the ethnographic regions. The complex is located in a 50 acre park. It has nine exhibition halls with a total area of 4200 square meters.
Since opening in 1971, the exhibition has hosted many national and international events that have gradually made it into a favorite place of artisans and lovers of traditional and modern art. The cultural calendar includes themed events that provide visitors with the opportunity to discover not only traditional crafts, but also to meet with masters and craftsmen.

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Kableshkov House - Koprivshtitsa

The Kableshkov House is the birthplace of Todor Kableshkov (1851), leader of the revolutionary committee in Koprivshtitsa, and the author of the bloody letter declaring a rebellion in the neighbor town of Panagyurishte. Arrested after the defeat of the rebels, he committed suicide in a Gabrovo prison. He was 25 years old.
The house was built in 1845 by the local Gencho Mladenov, at the request of Lulcho Kableshkov. The building is distinguished by its symmetry, its beautiful forms, and carved ceilings.
It was the first public museum opened in 1952, which tells the story of the city and the lifestyle of the rich local families. One part is dedicated to the life of Kableshkov, the April Uprising of 1976, and the volunteers from Koprivshtitsa that participated in the Russian-Turkish war of 1877 – 1878.

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Day 4

KoprivshtitsaStaroselKazanlakTryavna

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Premade route

Additional detours

Map of sites

Thracian Temple

Starosel

Thracian Sanctuary of Starosel

Starosel

Hisarya Architectural Preserve

Hissarya

Kalofer

The Rose Valley

Kazanlak

Valley of the Thracian Kings

Kazanlak

Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak

Kazanlak

Memorial Temple of the Birth of Christ (Shipka Church)

Shipka

Etar Architectural and Ethnographic Complex - Gabrovo

Etara

Tryavna

Thracian Temple

The Thracian Temple “Horizont” is part of the Thracian temple complex near the village of Starosel. It carries the name of the European organization “Stitching Horizon”, which is largely responsible for financing the archaeological excavations back in 2002. Dating back to the 4th or 5th century B.C., this temple differs from the others; it is the only known Thracian temple that features a colonnade. It was built inside a burial mound, which was also an embankment. The temple is covered and only ten pillars (six frontal, four on the sides) remain visible. This is the only Thracian temple of its kind ever found in Bulgaria. It differs from the Greek temples, which are completely open and surrounded by columns on all sides.
In the middle of the 4th century B.C., the temple was converted into a mausoleum following the burial of a Thracian king. The deceased king’s horse was also buried along with him. The temple was then desecrated, pillaged, destroyed, and buried, most likely for political or religious reasons. Despite the poor conditions of the objects found here, these artifacts attest to the wealth of the deceased and his influence in society.
This temple is an extremely rare and sacred place, which has passed through the ages of history and still stands today. There was also another temple in a nearby mound, where a chapel stands today.

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Thracian Sanctuary of Starosel

In August of 2000, the largest Thracian religious/cult complex was discovered near the villages of Starosel and Hisar. Today it is known as the Starosel Thracian Shrine Complex, or the Royal Thracian Complex and Mausoleum. It is believed to be built some time during the 5th century B.C., probably erected in honor of Sitalk I, the first Thracian emperor, who ruled the lands from the Danube to the Aegean Sea.

The complex provides a wealth of information about a little-known civilization, but one that was very significant during its time. The view from atop the hill is worth seeing.

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Hisarya Architectural Preserve

The Hisarya Architectural Preserve is located in the heart of the modern town of the same name. The ancient city allows visitors to learn about the characteristics of urban Roman architecture from the late 3rd century to the early 4th century. In fact, after the conquest of Thrace, the Romans discovered the beneficial properties of the water sources in the village, which received city status in the year 293. During this time the town’s defenses were strengthened with the addition of massive fortress walls.
Destroyed several times over the centuries, traces of Hisarya’s glory days can still be seen, such as the walls of the fortress, the ancient amphitheater, Roman baths, barracks, houses and public buildings, the tomb of a Roman family, Christian basilicas, Roman urban network and water pipelines.
The fortress wall (2300 meters long) remains one of the best preserved in Europe from that time, a little copy of the hull of Constantinople, which suggests that this was an important city. Let yourself be carried away by the charm of this beautiful and colorful town during your walk around the center and in the ancient ruins.

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Kalofer

The small town of Kalofer is situated in the foothills of the southern slopes of Stara Planina, close to the Central Balkan National Park. It sits on the banks of the river Tundzha between Central Balkan and Sredna Gora. The park is home to the Botev peak, which has an altitude of 2376 meters above sea level. Its name comes from the Bulgarian poet and revolutionary Vasil Levski’s assistant – Hristo Botev.
Moreover the Hristo Botev National Museum is one of the hundreds of national sites open to visitors every day. This is the birthplace of Botev, and contains an exhibition of documents and personal belongings of the extraordinary Bulgarian hero. A monument to the poet-revolutionary is found in the city. Kalofer is known across Bulgaria for its ecotourism and received an award from the European Union for the creation of eco projects and programs. A visit to this part of Bulgaria will surely include many excursions, and walks on foot or horseback. This is an ideal way to discover the country’s natural beauty. A small tourist office in the city can provide you with more information.

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The Rose Valley

Bulgaria is well-known for being the largest producer of rose oil in the world. At the heart of this industry is the region known as the Rose Valley. The secret to cultivating the highest quality of Bulgarian roses is an art that has been developed over many years, in part thanks to the soil and favorable climate. The highest quality roses are of a sort called “Rosa Damascena”. Rose oil is sometimes referred to as the “liquid gold” of Bulgaria, because of its high price. It is used in many famous brands of perfume, chocolate, liquor, and jam. Rose oil is three times more expensive than gold. It takes 3000 kilos of roses to produce just one liter of rose oil. All flowers are picked by hand and carefully preserved for distillation, with the harvest usually taking place in May. Harvest begins early in the morning, when the dew is still on the roses. In fact, the dew is vital for extracting the rose oil from the flower, and also for the production of rose water. Bulgarian rose oil is one of the essential ingredients in many French perfumes, thanks to its high level of quality. A festival also takes place in the first week of June, coinciding with the flowering period of the roses. There are lots of flowers, colorful costumes and traditional ethnic dances during the festival, whose highlight is the crowning of the Rose Queen, the most beautiful girl in town.

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Valley of the Thracian Kings

The region around the town of Kazanlak is referred to as The Valley of the Thracian Kings, and is known for its many and varied monuments from Thracian times. Archaeologists have studied a very small part of the 1,500 tombs in the area (about 300). New discoveries will undoubtedly follow, and will further enhance our knowledge of this civilization, which is an inseparable part of the Bulgarian heritage. Among the most famous barrows are the Kosmatka, Svetashta, Ostrusha, Shushmanets, The Gryphons, Large Arsenal, and of course, the one found in Kazanlak.

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Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak

The first Royal Thracian tomb is found in the town of Kazanlak, the heart of the Thracian civilization. Recognized as a world heritage site by UNESCO, the tomb allows you to look into the past of a little known civilization, which for its time was the most powerful in Europe and the Mediterranean, long before the Romans. The murals in the dome of the tomb are well preserved, and its unique style makes it one of the masterpieces of ancient cultural heritage and Thracian. In the hallway of the tomb there is a scene depicting a battle on the wall, and found in the burial chamber are scenes of a feast and funerary ritual, and a horse drawn chariot. These murals reflect the beliefs of the Thracians, and their thoughts on the afterlife. In the main room there is a scene illustrating the life of the deceased hero and his wife.

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Memorial Temple of the Birth of Christ (Shipka Church)

The Memorial Temple of the Birth of Christ, more commonly known as the Shipka Church, was built in 1902 to honor the soldiers who died in the Russo-Turkish war to help free Bulgaria from Ottoman rule. In the crypt of the Russian church there are seventeen marble sarcophagi containing the bones of soldiers who died in 1877.

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Etar Architectural and Ethnographic Complex - Gabrovo

The Etar Architectural and Ethnographic Complex was founded in 1964, and shows the way of life of the region during the 18th and 19th centuries.
In the shadow of the clock tower, who still counts the hours, everyone who comes here is immersed in scenes from the Bulgarian Revival style. In this wonderful place you can see artisans (blacksmiths, carpenters, tanners, potters, jewelers, weavers, woodcarvers, bakers…) make their works using modern methods.

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Tryavna

Tryavna is a recommended visit because of the atmosphere of the city, which is known for its handmade works. Its main street is quite charming, a place where you can buy original souvenirs. Located near Gabrovo, the town is home to a famous school of iconography, which has an international reputation. For a long time, all the activities in the town were focused on art exclusively, which visitors have the opportunity to enjoy in most of the churches there. This is a great place for people who want to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the 19th century.
A major symbol of the city is the 21 meter clock tower, built in 1814.
You can visit the many house museums - The Daskalov (1804), Kanchev, Raikov (1846) houses, or the Slaveikovschool (1836), the Museum of Icons, the Kazakov Gallery of Asian and African Art, as well is the Church of St. Michael the Archangel. There is plenty to see while on a walk around this charming and friendly town.

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Starosel Winery

Starosel

Roman Family Tomb - Hisarya

Hissarya

Hisarya Archaeological Museum

Hissarya

Damascena Rosary

Skobelevo

Iskra History Museum - Kazanlak

Kazanlak

Mount Buzludzha

Buzludzha

Ostrusha Thracian Tomb

Kazanlak

Royal Tomb of Seuthes III (The Great Kosmatka)

Kazanlak

Starosel Winery

The Starosel Winery is located about 2 kilometers from a Thracian sanctuary, and is a great place to stop and have some lunch. Far from the hustle and buildings of city life, this is a wonderful complex which offers tastings of their products in a tasting room modelled after the Thracian sanctuaries.

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Roman Family Tomb - Hisarya

Thanks to the numerous archaeological excavations in the area of the ancient town Hisarya, we now have the opportunity to see the 5 preserved necropoles outside the boundaries of the fortress. Visitors can only enter the largest tomb, which is the only one decorated with frescoes and mosaics. Dating to the 4th century, it is one of the most intriguing tombs in Bulgaria, its architecture and history preserved in time.
The Roman Family Tomb in Hisarya was discovered by accident in 1957, when the ground was being used for farming. The tomb includes a corridor, staircase, vault, and burial chamber. The floor of the burial chamber is covered with mosaics in geometric shapes that resemble a colorful carpet. Both of the funeral beds were carved into the room after construction. The tomb is 5 meters underground, with only the stairs and entrance at surface level. The wear on the staircase suggests that the tomb was used as a mausoleum. It was found empty, probably robbed long in the past. The frescoes on the wall are heavily damaged by water that has seeped into the grave. The tomb was intended for the family of a noble Roman dignitary or warlord.

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Hisarya Archaeological Museum

In the Hisarya Archaeological Museum there are many archaeological discoveries found in the town. The oldest objects date from the Neolithic period. Visitors can see models of some of the buildings in the ancient city, such as the amphitheater, Christian basilica, and the main fortress gate of the ancient city “Camels”. The museum was founded in 1953. It has expanded, and now features an exhibition dedicated to the lifestyle of the region. Currently, the five halls hold a little over 4,000 items.

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Damascena Rosary

In the village of Skobelevo there is a large industry for producing rose oil using the Damascena rose. Here you can discover the secrets of the processing and production of rose oil, and also taste the products made with it – such as rose water, rose jam, and rose brandy.

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Iskra History Museum - Kazanlak

The Iskra History Museum in Kazanlak is one of the oldest and most famous museums in Bulgaria. Founded in 1901, its collections feature more than 50,000 original artifacts from the Kazanlak period. The artifacts are split between four different exhibits (Archaeology, Renaissance, Modern and Contemporary History, and Ethnography). Probably the most interesting artifacts are the bone tools (the largest collection in Southeast Europe), Thracian artifacts, medieval pottery, swords, knives, jewelry, and traditional costumes. The new treasury hall holds the latest findings of gold, silver and bronze. Among these are the golden crown, helmet and kneepads of the Thracian King Suethes III, found in the Kosmatka burial mound.
The museum preserves, researches, and promotes the cultural heritage of the Kazanlak region, including all the Thracian tombs in the Valley of the Kings.

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Mount Buzludzha

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Ostrusha Thracian Tomb

The Ostrusha Tomb is located in between the village of Shipka and the town of Kazanlak. In 1993, a religious burial ground of great artistic and historic value was discovered here during an archaeological excavation.
The coins and artifacts found here date back to the middle of the 4th century B.C. The tomb consists of six rooms, 5 rectangular and one circular, with a total area of 100 square meters. Two of the rooms are inaccessible. Their secrets will remain hidden until further excavations take place.
Not many of the extraordinary facades and ornaments are left, but visitors can still see the central burial chamber, carved from two monolithic stone blocks weighing 60 tons each. The trapezoidal stone slab that covers it has the shape of a sarcophagus. The ceiling of the tomb is intricately decorated with scenes of life, heroes, animals, and complex geometric shapes. The frescoes, some outlined with gold, demonstrate the mastery of the Thracian artists to depict their heroes and their spirituality, despite the considerable deterioration.

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Royal Tomb of Seuthes III (The Great Kosmatka)

Near Kazanlak, close to the ruins of Sevtopolis, the ancient capital of the Odrysians, archaeologists discovered the royal tomb of Seuthes III in 2004. Dating back to the second half of the 5th century, it is one of the most important discoveries in Bulgaria over the last decade.
Archaeologists uncovered a large number of objects made from gold and silver. The size of the tomb and the number of precious objects inside suggest that this was the tomb of a very important Thracian ruler.

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Day 5

TryavnaVeliko TarnovoArbanasi

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Premade route

Additional detours

Map of sites

Church of St. Michael the Archangel - Tryavna

Tryavna

Daskalov House - Tryavna

Tryavna

Veliko Tarnovo

Tsarevets Fortress

Veliko Tarnovo

Holy Forty Martyrs Church - Veliko Tarnovo

Veliko Tarnovo

Church of St. Demetrius of Thessolaniki - Veliko Tarnovo

Veliko Tarnovo

Samodovska Market - Veliko Tarnovo

Veliko Tarnovo

Arbanasi

Church of St. Michael the Archangel - Tryavna

Located near the old school, the Church of St. Michael the Archangel was designed and built in the 12th century. The iconostasis was carved by local craftsmen from the Tryavna art school. The famous “King’s Cross” is made of boxwood; on it there are carvings of 12 different stories from the Gospels.

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Daskalov House - Tryavna

The Daskalov House is one of the most beautiful houses in Tryavna, preserved in its Renaissance style. Built between 1804 and 1808 for the two songs of the merchant Hristo Daskalov, the house impresses with its elaborately carved ceilings. Six months were required to achieve this level of detail. In the annex of the house there is a museum of woodcarving.

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Veliko Tarnovo

Veliko Tarnovo was the capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire between the 12th and 14th centuries, and is considered to be the most beautiful city in the Balkans after Istanbul.
Razed by the Turks in 1393, the city has preserved its fortifications to this day. This is a must see city in Bulgaria, with its rich history, natural beauty, houses hanging over the Yantra river and a preserved medieval appearance.

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Tsarevets Fortress

The Tsarevets Fortress is one of the most visited landmarks in Bulgaria. It is located in the old part of the town, on the hill which bears the same name.
The first traces of human presence here date back to the Thracian times. The fortress is from the time of the Second Bulgarian Empire, during which the town flourished and became the capital of Bulgaria, as well as one of the largest cities in Southeast Europe.
The city began the construction and strengthening of the citadel, whose remains can still be seen today. The wall is 3.4 meters wide by 10 meters high, and has a length of 1,100 meters. It contained 470 houses, an inn, houses of the aristocracy, 23 churches, and four monasteries.
The restoration of the ruins began in 1930. It was partially completed in 1981 in celebration of the creation of the Bulgarian state. On top of the hill is the Church of the Patriarch, also restored in 1981. The frescoes inside depict the rise and fall of the Second Bulgarian Empire.
A visit to the Fortress of Tsarevets is a must, an opportunity to immerse yourself in this part of Bulgarian history, sealed deep in Veliko Tarnovo.

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Holy Forty Martyrs Church - Veliko Tarnovo

The Holy Forty Martyrs Church is one of the most emblematic medieval churches in Veliko Tarnovo. Built at the foot of Tsarevets Hill, it was declared a historical monument in 1964; it is closely connected with the history of Bulgaria.
It was built and decorated to celebrate the great victory of Tsar Ivan Asen II against the Byzantine ruler Theodore Komnin, on March 22, 1230. This provided military-political influence of the Bulgarian Kingdom in the Balkans with an outlet to three seas: the Black, Aegean, and Adriatic.
Historians suggest that the church was built around the Royal Monastery, which is one of the most important medieval monasteries in the area of the city.
After the conquest of the city by the Ottomans in the 16th century, the church was converted into a mosque. This is undoubtedly the reason the temple was saved, as all churches and monasteries in the surrounding hills were destroyed during the Ottoman period (1396-1878). After the liberation in 1878 it was reverted to a Christian church. The most famous people buried inside are the Bulgarian Tsars Kaloyan and Ivan Asen II, as well as the Saint Sava.

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Church of St. Demetrius of Thessolaniki - Veliko Tarnovo

The Church of St. Demetrius of Thessolaniki or St. Dimitar Solunski, is located northeast of Trapetitsa, on the right bank of the Yantra River. It is the oldest church in Veliko Tarnovo and is precisely dated to medieval times.
It is closely related to the riots against the Byzantines in 1185. This is the place where the first kings of the Bulgarian Asen Dynasty – Peter, Ivan, and Asen were crowned. Later, a monastery was added to the church whose ruins attest to the active monastic life. The fate of the church and the monastery is not different from other places of worship. It was devastated by robbers and heavily damaged during the second half of the 19th century. It was completely destroyed by an earthquake in 1913. Some elements of the building and its frescoes are fully restored.
Based on research done in 1971 to clarify the architectural plans and rich external decorations, the church began renovations in 1977. It was restored and opened to visitors as a museum in 1985, in connection with the 800 year anniversary of the rebellion of Assen and Peter, and the declaration of Veliko Tarnovo as the capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire.

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Samodovska Market - Veliko Tarnovo

The Samovodska Market is a historic center for crafts in Veliko Tarnovo. It was created in the second half of the 19th century, a period that marks the rebirth of the city. People from the nearby villages came here to sell their produce. One of the villages is called Samovodene, and that is where the name of the street comes from. Gradually, inns began to open, which allowed artisans to meet with entrepreneurs and offer their products.
Today, in the narrow cobbled streets, there are still small crafts workshops (blacksmiths, potters, chocolate makers, knife makers, jewelers, curios, bookstores and galleries). This is a place where you can buy souvenirs, enjoy the specialities, or just feel the atmosphere of yesteryear during your walk.

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Arbanasi

Arbanasi is a village located on a plateau 4 kilometers from Veliko Tarnovo, the capital of Bulgaria during the middle ages. From the plateau there is a wonderful view of the hills of Tsarevets and Trapezitza. The village is famous for its architectural sites, including many beautiful houses and impressive churches decorated with fantastic murals. These monuments of Bulgarian architecture and artistry are a site of interest for the Bulgarian government, who make a great effort to maintain them and the history tied to them.

The story of the village of Arbanasi is first chronicled in a document from Suleiman the Magnificent from the year 1538. In the 15th and 18th centuries, the village experienced a period of large economic development, and became an important trade center for art and craftsmanship. During this time, the residents of Arbanasi began constructing some of its most beautiful and renowned churches, in which can be seen the artistic heritage of the village. Even today these works accurately reflect the refining of tastes and behaviors of the past. There are 144 designated architectural and cultural monuments. Deep in the green of venerable walnut trees, Arbanasi is an oasis of calm with its own preserved style of houses, grape vines and serene gardens. A peaceful place filled with the smell of geranium, colorful beds of flowers and winding narrow streets. Immersed in this dreamlike environment, it’s as if time stands still in the past.

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Tryavna

Old School - Tryavna

Tryavna

Kazakov Gallery

Tryavna

Museum of Icons - Tryavna

Tryavna

Bozhentsi

Dryanovo Monastery

Dryanovo

Bacho Kiro Cave

Dryanovo

Church of Saints Peter and Paul - Veliko Tarnovo

Veliko Tarnovo

Monastery of the Transfiguration of God

Veliko Tarnovo

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Old School - Tryavna

The Old School, situated in the heart of the city, is a place that continues the tradition of master wood sculptors of the late 19th century. Studios and galleries present permanent exhibitions, which include manuals, books, and certificates.

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Kazakov Gallery

The Kazakov Gallery includes a beautiful collection of paintings by the artist Dimitar Kazakov (1933-1992).

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Museum of Icons - Tryavna

The Museum of Icons, situated on top of a hill in Tryavna, is dedicated to the Tryavna School of Iconography. It contains more than 160 incredible icons and various tools belonging to Tryavna painters. The exposition shows examples of the average family of a Tryavna painter, and the developmental stages of iconography. The atmosphere in the museum is filled with deep inspiration and the radiating beauty of the icons. They present to us the tradition of medieval iconography, and the innovations of the craftsmen, who combine unique colors to create the vivid images of their characters.

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Bozhentsi

The beautiful village of Bozhentsi is famous for its preserved architecture, restored houses with rooves of tikli (old style Bulgarian bricks made of rocks) in the national awakening style, and wonderful nature. The food is delicious, and in the local taverns you will find many warm and friendly faces. According to local legends, the village was founded around 600 hundred years ago by Bozhana, a Bulgarian noble. Following the conquest of the Bulgarian Capital Veliko Tarnovo by the Ottomans and the death of her husband, Bozhana and her family found shelter in the deep forests, and founded the village there.
Bozhentsi is located near the ancient Roman road “Nicopolis ad Istrum” (north of Veliko Tarnovo). The village is specialized in trade with Russia, Italy, Austria-Hungary, and France. Near the end of the 19th century, Bozhentsi had become an administrative, cultural, religious, and trade center with over 500 residents and 110 houses. It’s as if time has stood still in the village since then. It was declared a historic architectural reservation in the 8th issue of the national newspaper in 1964 and has preserved its 100-250 year old houses, which serve to remind of the visitors of the past. Stories told by the locals are filled with details of its past. Today, the village life is marked with a many cultural events throughout the year. These events allow visitors to get a taste of the local traditions and way of life. The House-Museums, old style wax purification and knives workshops will make your stay in this picturesque village unforgettable.

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Dryanovo Monastery

The Dryanovo Monastery is located equidistant from Veliko Tarnovo and Gabrovo and dates back to the 12th century. This is a monastery with a rich and tragic history – repeatedly being burned. It housed a huge library. It was also the spiritual center for the preparation of the April Uprising. Today, the monastery keeps the faith and closeness between the people. The Dryanovo Monastery is one of the 100 national tourist sites, and was declared a national monument in 1971.
The monastery is a starting point for various hiking trails. You can visit the Bacho Kiro Cave nearby.

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Bacho Kiro Cave

The Bacho Kiro Cave is located 300 meters from the Dryanovo Monastery in a 25 meter limestone cliff. This is the first developed cave in Bulgaria (1937). Since 1940, it bears the name of Bacho Kiro, a revolutionary and participant in the April Uprising of 1876.

The cave is a complex labyrinth of galleries and branches, with a length of 3600 meters. Visitors are offered two routes. The first route is about 700 meters long and takes 70 minutes to complete, whereas the second shorter route takes about 30 minutes and is 350 meters.
For thousands of years rivers have sculpted these caverns and galleries in varied and interesting forms, as well as the classic forms (stalactites and stalagmites).

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Church of Saints Peter and Paul - Veliko Tarnovo

The history of the church is closely linked to that of the Second Bulgarian Empire, during which it played an important role. Today, the church is home to preserved frescoes from the 15th and 16th centuries, which is the main attraction for visitors.

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Monastery of the Transfiguration of God

One monastery that is definitely worth a visit if you have the time is the Monastery of the Transfiguration of God. About four kilometers from Veliko Tarnovo, nestled in the mountains, you will be amazed to find this beautiful monastery. Its outer façade and interior are covered in murals be the artist Zahari Zograf. Renovated many years ago, many visitors are able to experience this religious and holy place, due to its proximity to culture. Work on the monastery was funded by donations, and the murals have been restored several times. Here you can also buy honey that is produced on site.

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Day 6

ArbanasiRuse

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Premade route

Additional detours

Map of sites

Nativity of Christ Church - Arbanasi

Arbanasi

Byala Bridge

Byala

Ivanovo Rock Churches

Ivanovo

Ruse

Nativity of Christ Church - Arbanasi

There are five churches to visit in Arbanasi, but the one the most interesting one is the Nativity of Christ Church. Constructed during the 15th century, was first built with three naves and one apse. Then in the 17th century, the church was expanded and decorated with painted murals of saints by Bulgarian artists. There are 2000 saints painted on the according to calculations, representing 3500 different characters. A visit to this church is not one to pass up.

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Byala Bridge

The bridge of Kolyo Ficheto near the town of Byala, over the Yantra River, is one of the greatest achievements of the Bulgarian Revival. Work on the bridge began in 1865 on the orders of Midhat Pasha, and concluded two years later. It is built from limestone, with a length of 276 meters and a width of 9 meters. It features 14 twelve-meter arches, decorated with sculptures of animals.
The floods of 1897 destroyed eight arches in the center of the bridge, about 130 meters. They were reconstructed in 1922-1923 and reinforced with concrete pillars which take away some of the charm of the creation.
The bridge is now only used by pedestrians. Traffic goes to the parallel bridge to the south.

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Ivanovo Rock Churches

The Ivanovo Rock Churches are a sort of network of 20 small rock monasteries and churches, the most impressive being the Church of the Virgin Mary. It is part of the large rock monastery “St. Michael the Archangel”, which is located 22 kilometers from Ruse. This church was developed under the protection of the Bulgarian Tsars and patriarchs during the 13th and 14th centuries. Thanks to its well preserved frescoes, considered to be the best example of Bulgarian medieval art, the monastery is included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites.
The Church of the Virgin Mary is just over 2 meters high and 16 meters, and was created and painted with the support of Tsar Ivan Alexander. It consists of two buildings and a chapel. You can find remains of monastic cells in the rocks around the neighborhood.
The frescoes on the walls and ceiling of the church were created by unknown artists. They depict scenes of the Holy Week and the life of St. John the Baptist. Portraits of Tsar Ivan Alexander, Queen Theodora, and various other Saints are displayed in the vestibule of the church, as well as scenes from the life of the Syrian hermits in the chapel.
The frescoes in the church are distinguished by their beauty, vitality and perfection. This is an example of the high level of culture achieved during the Second Bulgarian Empire.

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Ruse

Ruse is the fifth largest city in Bulgaria with a population of 180,000 inhabitants. It is located in the northeast, on the right bank of the Danube, 320 kilometers from Sofia and 70 kilometers from Bucharest.
Ruse has a long history spanning nearly 20 centuries. It starts with the construction of a Thracian settlement, later being included in the Sexaginta Prista Fortress. The fortress was situated on the main road from Singidunum to the Danube Delta. The role of the fortress was important because it controlled the transport of weapons and goods by river. It was destroyed in the 6th century during the attacks of the Avars and Slavs.
During the First and Second Bulgarian Empires, there existed a fortified settlement named Rusi near the ruins of Prista. It was developed as an important center of trade in the Trans-Danubian lands, until it was conquered by the Ottoman Empire in 1388.
Destroyed by invaders and rebuilt because of its strategic location, Ruse became one of the most important fortified cities on the Danube. Since the beginning of the 17th century the city has developed as a commercial, cultural, and industrial center.
Ruse has a very rich heritage. The largest bridge in Bulgaria was built here in the 1950s. This bridge plays an important role in the exchange of goods between Central Europe and the Balkans.
The interesting buildings and historical landmarks showcase the diverse architecture, mixing classical styles, Baroque, Renaissance, Gothic, and Rococo. Its large green parks and the Danube River have earned the city the nickname “Little Vienna”.
The most beautiful buildings in Ruse are called the “Golden Dozen” and include the former theater, music school, the Catholic Church, and the house of architects. Some of the museums you can see are the Regional History Museum, the Museum of Urban Life, the Zahari Stoyanov House and the National Museum of Transport, which is the only one of its kind in Bulgaria. The town hosts cultural events such as the Carnival in Ruse, March Music Days, and the Autumn Days of Art and Science.

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Konstantsaliev House

Arbanasi

Ruins of Nicopolis ad Istrum

Veliko Tarnovo

Medieval City of Cherven

Tcherven

Orlova Chuka Cave

Dve Moguili

Basarbovo Monastery

Ruse

Konstantsaliev House

The houses in Arbanasi are a type of fortified house with high walls and gates with iron fences. Inside, the homes were decorated with expertly carved wooden ceilings, which can truly be considered masterpieces. One of the most beautiful old houses is the home of Konstantsaliev, which you can explore. The name of the 400 year old house comes from its owner. Following a restoration in 1958, the building is now also used as a museum that documents the lifestyle of the local population in the 19th century.

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Ruins of Nicopolis ad Istrum

The ruins of the Roman city Nicopolis ad Istrum are about 20 kilometers north from Veliko Tarnovo, on the road to Ruse, 3 kilometers southeast of the village Nikyup on the left bank of the Rosica River.
The city was founded during the 2nd century by the Roman Emperor Trayan, in honor of his victory over the Dacians in the year 106. For this reason, the city was sometimes known as the City of Victory on the Danube. Located at a crossroads of North, South, East and West, the city reached its peak during the reign of the Severans (from the end of the 2nd century to the beginning of the 3rd century). During this period, more than 1,000 types of bronze coins were cut in the city. The city was laid out in an orthogonal system, i.e. straight streets, oriented on the four cardinal directions, intersecting at right angles.
In the beginning, the city did not have defenses, and it was devastated by the Barbarians in 172. After the devastation, 8 meter walls were built around the city, above which rose 12 meter high towers. The power supply of the city is provided by three aqueducts, the longest reaches 26 kilometers.
Remains of public buildings, temples, and shops attest to the prosperity of the city. Excavations made by archaeologists and conservation work have helped to return this city lost in the 7th century (destroyed in an attack by the Avars, according to historians). We encourage you to visit this place if you have an interest in the Roman era.

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Medieval City of Cherven

The medieval city of Cherven, founded by the Thracians, was one of the most important centers of the Second Bulgarian Empire (11th-14th centuries). Its strategic location and proximity to the then capital of Veliko Tarnovo ensured the development of the city. Once it was conquered by the Ottoman Turks, the city began to decline.
Despite centuries of oblivion and ruin, visitors can still see the ruins of the city. The place is not a very well-known tourist location, but has had a great contribution to the study of the history of the Second Bulgarian Empire. Baldwin Tower in Veliko Tarnovo is a copy of one of the 14th century towers of Cherven.
For people fascinated by medieval castles, this place would be very interesting, due to the minimal human intervention making it one of the best preserved medieval castles in Bulgaria.

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Orlova Chuka Cave

The Orlova Chuka Cave is located in a beautiful natural park, and features both interesting speleology (stalagmites, stalactites, draperies etc.) and archaeological finds from the Bronze Age, as well as more recent discoveries from the Thracian and Roman eras.
The cave was discovered accidentally by a shepherd in 1941. It has been available for visitors since 1959, and new chambers are constantly being discovered. With a total length of 13,155 meters, the cave is the second largest in Bulgaria, only after the Duhlata cave located near the town of Pernik.
Today, visitors can only see the top floor of the cave, which is about three kilometers long. The temperature in the cave is a constant 14 degrees Celsius throughout the year. Visitors can see valuable items, such as bones of bears, wolves and deer, as well as ancient spearheads and knives, which indicate human presence in the cave during the Neolithic era.
The cave also has very beautiful formations. In particular the “Big Stalactite”, with a height of 3.5 meters and a diameter of 50 centimeters is located in the “Concert Hall” chamber, where sounds resembling musical instruments can be heard. Perhaps the most interesting is the “Spring” chamber. Legends say that those who drink water from this spring will be granted one wish. In addition, if you look carefully on the walls of the cave, you will see many figures.
The cave is inhabited year-round by 10,000 bats. You can get close to them and even touch them, but be careful because if you wake them up it could be fatal for them, depending on the weather. All of these species are protected by law, as they are conducive to agriculture. Once you exit the cave you can climb the cliff and enjoy some superb views of the park.

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Basarbovo Monastery

The Basarbovo Monastery is nestled in the valley of the Rusenski Lom River, near the village of Basarbovo and 10 kilometers from the city of Ruse. It is the only active Bulgarian rock monastery.
The monks of the monastery dug their churches and cells into the limestone rocks in order to live in deprivation, silence and constant prayer, with the sole purpose to see and follow the path of Christ.
According to historical research, the Basarbovo Monastery is dedicated to the Saints Theodore Tyron and Theodore Stratelates. Queen Theodora donated to the monastery – she was the first wife of Tsar Ivan Alexander and daughter of Ivanko Basarab, the founder of the first Wallachia Dynasty. This is where the monastery originated from. Ivanko Basarab, being father of the Queen, was the owner of this land.
The most famous monk of the monastery is St. Demetrius Basarbovski, who spent his entire life there. Therefore, the feast of the monastery is on the 26th of October – the day of St. Demetrius. Since 2005, the monastery has been revitalized with the construction of new structures in the rocks, as well as renovation of the existing structures.

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Day 7

In the land of the Bulgarian Khans

RuseSveshtariMadaraVarna

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Premade route

Additional detours

Map of sites

Thracian Tomb of Sveshtari

Sveshtari

Tomb of Demir Baba Tekke

Sveshtari

Shumen

Madara Horseman

Madara

The Stone Forest

Varna

Varna - The Pearl of the Black Sea

Varna

Thracian Tomb of Sveshtari

In the morning you will head towards the town of Isperih, and more specifically the village of Sveshtari, whose surroundings hold one of the most beautiful monuments of Thracian culture.

The Thracian Tomb of Sveshtari is part of the Sboryanovo Historical and Architectural Reserve, located in northeastern Bulgaria, 2.5 kilometers from the village of Sveshtari. It was discovered in 1982 during excavations of the Ginini Barrow. Three tombs were discovered, one of which belonged to a royal, as well as knowledge of funerary traditions and art that rivals even the most beautiful Egyptian tombs. It was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985.
The Thracian tomb dates back from the 3rd century. It was probably used for the burial of a Thracian ruler. The dimensions of the chamber are remarkable: 7.5 meters long, 6.5 meters wide, and 4.45 meters tall. The tomb is in the form of a corridor with three square chambers: an entrance, burial chamber, and side chamber. The things that attract visitors are the polychrome frescoes and the half-man half-plant caryatids.
In the burial chamber lays the remains of the ruler. The ceiling of the tomb is supported by statues of 10 female figures with arms raised to a height of 1.2 meters. These 10 female statues as well as the decorations on the windows are only found in Thracian lands. The decorations on the walls and ceiling, which are unfinished, show that the ruler who the temple was built for died suddenly. The human bones and those of five horses attest to the wealth and high societal status of the ruler.

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Tomb of Demir Baba Tekke

The Tomb of Demir Baba Tekke is part of the Sboryanovo reserve, located in northeast Bulgaria near the village of Sveshtari. This is a tomb revered by Christians and Muslims alike, and is included in the list of 100 national historic sites.
The tekke (tomb) was once the grounds of a prehistoric cult, later becoming a Thracian sanctuary. A six-angled dome rises above the mausoleum. The stones from the earlier sanctuaries were used in its construction. A small shrine with a polygonal shape and pointed roof is attached to it, and features wonderful paintings and murals.
It is believed that this is the tomb of St. Demir Baba. Followers of Alevism, one of which was Demir Baba, do not celebrate the usual Islamic rituals, but honor the graves of their saints. A place of worship named Teke was built around the tomb, with a sacred spring.

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Shumen

The town of Shumen, and the surrounding region, offers a glimpse into the pages of history through its ancient remains and will immerse you in historical the atmosphere that prevails throughout...
Here you will find the largest mosque in Bulgaria, and the 2nd largest in the Balkan Peninsula – the Tombul Mosque. Other things to see in Shumen are the monument to the founders of Bulgaria, artwork that was created to commemorate the 13 centuries since the establishment of the Bulgarian state (the only way to get there is up a flight of 1300 stairs), remains of the Shumen Fortress, located in the highest point of the town, and the Historical Museum.
The region is exceptionally rich and history and allows you to explore the glorious past of the Bulgarian Khans. In fact, the first two capital cities of Bulgaria (Pliska and Preslav) are found in this part of the country.

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Madara Horseman

One place associated with Bulgarian history that deserves to be seen. A couple kilometers from Shumen, you will discover the Madara Horseman.
The stone relief is carved into the side of a mountain, and is about 23 meters above the ground. It depicts the first proto-Bulgarian symbol, a horseman with a spear in his hand pointed towards a lion with a snake in its mouth. Accompanying the rider are the images of two animals, a dog and an eagle. The inscriptions depict events that took place between the years 705 to 831, including many wars with the Byzantine Empire and their resulting negotiations. The Madara Horseman is a designated UNESCO world heritage site; the symbolic power of this monument can be found on the Bulgarian coins. Getting to the Horseman is no small task, visitors must climb a flight of 225 stairs. The museum found in the Madara reservation welcomes you to learn more about this unique monument and its time period.

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The Stone Forest

You will continue towards the city of Varna.

About 18 kilometers from the city of Varna is found one of the most unbelievable natural phenomenon of Bulgaria – Pobitite Kamani, or “Stone Forest”. These strange stone pillars, some of which reach up to 6 meters, are located in a 7 square kilometer area. Their origin is still up for debate. Some say they are natural formations, while others believe that they are ruins of an ancient city. Legends claim that the pillars are actually petrified soldiers on a battlefield.

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Varna - The Pearl of the Black Sea

You will arrive in Varna.

The ancient city of Varna, still known today as the “Pearl of the Black Sea”, has an international reputation for its past and its continuous development. In fact, this seaside resort has preserved many relics of the past, but also offers visitors beautiful sandy beaches, green gardens, and a modern downtown area. The numerous shops, restaurants, trendy cafes, and cultural sites create a very genuine atmosphere. During the summer, Varna becomes one of the main cultural centers of Bulgaria.
Some famous and interesting places to visit in the city are the Archaeological Museum (where you can see the oldest worked gold in the world), the Naval Museum and Botanical Garden, the magnificent gilded dome Cathedral, and the Roman Baths. Varna is a city full of charm, with a rich historic past, and a dynamic present.

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Marin Krastev House

Malak Porovets

Shumen Historical Museum

Shumen

Tombul Mosque

Shumen

Pliska National Archaeological and Historical Reservation

Shumen

Veliki Preslav Archaeological Reserve

Veliki Preslav

Ovech Fortress

Provadia

Museum of Mosaics

Devnya

Marin Krastev House

The house with wood carvings by the craftsman Marin Krastev is located in the small village of Porovets, near the town of Isperih. Marin Krastev was a self-taught craftsman. He began work on the decoration of his house following his retirement, a project that lasted 13 years.
Every corner of the house is decorated entirely with wood carvings. The craftsman’s hhand has left its mark on every object in the house – furniture, walls, and ceilings. Each part of the house is named, which is evidence of the attention, care, and love that Krastev put into each of his works: the Arab Room, White Room, and the family altar.
This unique museum near the Demir Baba Tekke and Sveshtari tombs immerses visitors into the beautiful world of this self-taught artist who showed a powerful imagination and will to finish the job. We recommend a visit.

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Shumen Historical Museum

The Shumen Historical Museum is located in the city center, and is one of the most interesting museums in the country. In its eight permanent exhibition halls are displayed objects from the 5th millennium BC to the twentieth century. Do not hesitate to contact your local guide for a chance to witness the historical artifacts shown in the museum. A visit here will help you get to know the history of Shumen and the surrounding area.

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Tombul Mosque

The Sherif Halil Pasha Mosque, also known as the Tombul Mosque, is located near the center of Shumen. Built in 1774, the architecture of the mosque draws influence from an early 18th century oriental style called “Tulip” architecture, which is characterized by the presence of elements French Baroque style. It is the largest mosque in Bulgaria and the 2nd largest in the Balkan Peninsula after the Sultan Selim mosque, which is located in Edirne, Turkey.
Built on an area of 1730 square meters, the mosque includes some very large courtyards. It is one of the most visited tourist sites in the Shumen region.

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Pliska National Archaeological and Historical Reservation

A great stop for history lovers, near the Madara Horseman, lies the first capital of Bulgaria, Pliska. Today you can visit what remains of the town, as it is now an outdoor museum that welcomes visitors.

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Veliki Preslav Archaeological Reserve

Another important site in the region is the ruins of the second Bulgarian capital - Veliki Preslav.

The city of Veliki Preslav was founded over 1100 years ago, during the reign of Tsar Boris I (852-889). The city became the capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire in 893, and quickly became one of the most beautiful and glorious cities of Southeastern Europe. This was the beginning of the Golden age of Bulgaria during the reign of Tsar Simeon I (893-927).

The remains of many monuments in the walled old section of the town reveal its long history. The museum preserves valuable objects found in archaeological excavations. It is a fascinating visit for people interested in history and ancient stones.

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Ovech Fortress

The Ovech Fortress is located east of the small town of Provadia. The fortress was built by the Byzantines and operated from the 4th to the 7th century before being conquered by the Bulgarians. The fortress is known by many names. The Byzantines referred to it as Provat or Provaton, the Bulgarians Ovech, while the Turks called it Tash Hisar, which means “stone castle” in Turkish.
Today the castle still remains, a witness of many long years. Some remains include walls and towers, and several wells with a depth of 79 meters, not to mention the breathtaking view of Provadia and the surroundings. The nature and cultural enrichment make this a great place for a walk.

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Museum of Mosaics

A little before Varna, you can visit the Museum of Mosaics, located in the town of Devnya. This museum is “in situ”, and is housed in a building specially made for the protection of the items discovered there. In 1976, a large Roman building with beautiful mosaics was unearthed there during an archaeological excavation. The museum is situated one part of the foundations of the ancient building, which is believed to be from the reign of Emperor Constantine I at the end of the 3rd or early 4th century. The building is a large urban villa, and occupied an entire neighborhood in the ancient Roman city Marcianopolis, which was one of the largest Roman cities in this part of the empire. Typical of the houses of this era, it features a courtyard surrounded by residential buildings and colonnades on three sides. Five of the rooms and the entrance are covered with colorful mosaics that are among the best examples of mosaics in the Roman era found in Bulgaria. Three of the mosaics in the museum are still in the rooms that they were found in, and the other two were moved onto a new support base after a partial restoration. The mosaics are made of small pebbles, cubes of marble, limestone, clay and 16 different colors of glass. The museum is an enriching place to visit and discover more about this ancient art, represented here in all its glory and beauty.

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Day 8

Charm of Old Nessebar

VarnaKamtchiaNessebar

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Cultural heritage and UNESCO sites in Bulgaria

Les point forts du voyage

Avis Balkania Tour

Vous decouvriez...

Your Adviser

Georges KANEV

Duration

15 days/ 14 nights

choisissez vous meme les dates du depart

start from

1090 €

par personne, hors vols internationaux

Payment Details:

Arrival at the Bulgarian capital

Arrival at the Bulgarian capital

Sofia

Sofia

Sofia

Arrival at the Bulgarian capital

Sofia

Along the Iskar Gorge

Iskar Gorge

Sofia

Cherepish Monastery

Cherepishki manastir

Ritlite

Luti brod

Saeva Dupka Cave

Brestnitsa

Glozhene Monastery

Glozhenski manastir

Iskar Gorge

Cherepish Monastery

Ritlite

Saeva Dupka Cave

Glozhene Monastery

Vazov Eco-Trail

Gara Bov

Vratsa

Vratsa

Tower of the Offenders - Vratsa

Vratsa

Kurtpashov Tower - Vratsa

Vratsa

Vratsa Regional History Museum

Vratsa

Rogozen Thracian Treasure

Vratsa

St. Sophronius of Vratsa Ethnographic Complex

Vratsa

Vratsa Pass

Vratsa

Ledenika Cave

Vratsa

Kaleto Archaeological Complex

Mezdra

Blue Ostrich Farm - Brestnitsa

Brestnitsa

Vazov Eco-Trail

Vratsa

Tower of the Offenders - Vratsa

Kurtpashov Tower - Vratsa

Vratsa Regional History Museum

Rogozen Thracian Treasure

St. Sophronius of Vratsa Ethnographic Complex

Vratsa Pass

Ledenika Cave

Kaleto Archaeological Complex

Blue Ostrich Farm - Brestnitsa

Traditions and crafts

Troyan Monastery

Oreshak

Beklemeto (The Troyan Pass)

Troyan

Koprivshtitsa

Koprivshtitsa

Oslekov House

Koprivshtitsa

Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Church - Koprivshtitsa

Koprivshtitsa