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.