България гайдс Туризъм, хотели, ресторанти и услуги в България
Amidst the picturesque hills of Bulgaria, Veliko Tarnovo beckons you with a tapestry of history, culture, and architectural marvels. From ancient fortresses to vibrant markets, this city seamlessly weaves the past and present. Embark on a journey of discovery as we unveil the top attractions that make Veliko Tarnovo an irresistible destination for every traveler.
1. Tsarevets Fortress: A Citadel of Tales
At the heart of Veliko Tarnovo stands the majestic Tsarevets Fortress, an iconic symbol of medieval Bulgaria. Roam the historic grounds where emperors once tread, and immerse yourself in tales of the Second Bulgarian Kingdom. Marvel at the Baldwin Tower, named after a captured Latin emperor, and explore the Patriarchal Cathedral St. Ascension, adorned with captivating murals. Don’t miss the mesmerizing „Sound and Light“ show, a breathtaking spectacle that brings history to life in vibrant colors.
2. Trapezitsa: Unearth the Secrets of a Natural Fortress
Discover Trapezitsa, a natural fortress brimming with over 20 churches from the medieval era. Whether you ascend on foot or via the funicular (available from May to October), Trapezitsa promises archaeological wonders and panoramic views that captivate the soul.
3. Sveta Gora Park: Nature’s Haven in the City
Sveta Gora Park, the third hill of Veliko Tarnovo, unfolds as a serene haven for leisure and sports. Take a tranquil stroll through its green expanses, breathing in the fresh air and relishing the harmonious blend of nature and city life.
4. Park „Mini Bulgaria“: A Miniature Journey Across the Land
Marvel at the Park „Mini Bulgaria“ beneath Tsarevets Fortress, where iconic landmarks from Sofia’s St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral to Plovdiv’s Ancient Theatre are meticulously recreated in miniature. An enchanting experience awaits, with entrance fees catering to all, ensuring a family-friendly outing.
5. Shishman’s Bath: A Glimpse into Medieval Bathing Rituals
Explore Shishman’s Bath, one of Bulgaria’s few preserved medieval baths. Nestled near the Tsarevets fortress, this historical gem offers a free exploration of its six rooms, each telling tales of bathing rituals during the time of Tsar Ivan Shishman.
6. Samovodska Charshia Market: Craftsmanship Preserved Through Time
Wander through the Samovodska Charshia Market, a living testament to Bulgaria’s folk crafts and traditions. Restored houses from the Revival period house active craft shops, inviting you to indulge in pottery, tannery, confectionery, and weaving.
7. Gurko Street: A Photogenic Stroll through Old Town
Continue your exploration of Gurko Street, where every step offers a visual feast of beautifully preserved houses and panoramic views. This charming street captures the essence of Veliko Tarnovo’s unique character, making it a must-visit for every traveler seeking to immerse themselves in the city’s architectural splendor. This main artery of the old town, stands as a visual masterpiece with its charming houses cascading down the hills. Capture the unique spirit of Veliko Tarnovo as you wander along this photogenic street.
8. Churches: Icons of Spiritual and Architectural Richness
Immerse yourself in the spiritual richness of Veliko Tarnovo by visiting the Nativity of Virgin Mary Orthodox Cathedral, Church of St. Peter and Paul, „Holy Forty Martyrs“ Church, and „St. Demetrius“ Church. These architectural marvels, some rebuilt after the earthquake of 1913, echo with the history of uprising and coronation.
9. Museums: Gateways to Time
Delve into Veliko Tarnovo’s history at the Museum of Illusions, Multimedia Visitors Centre „Tsarevgrad Tarnov,“ Archaeological Museum, Revival and Constituent Assembly Museum, and the House-Museum of Emilian Stanev. These institutions house relics, sculptures, and artifacts that unravel the city’s evolution.
10. Monuments: Echoes of Valor and Literary Legacy
Stand in awe before the Asenevtsi Monument, an emblematic tribute to the kings of medieval Bulgaria. Pay homage to warriors at the Monument „Mother Bulgaria“ and honor literary giants with monuments dedicated to Emilian Stanev and Stefan Stambolov.
Pay respects at the Monument „Mother Bulgaria,“ centrally located and dedicated to warriors who sacrificed their lives in various wars. Unveiled in 1935, this poignant monument stands as a testament to the courage and resilience of those who defended Bulgaria in conflicts from the Russian-Ottoman War to the First World War.
As you traverse Veliko Tarnovo’s enchanting streets and landmarks, let each step be a passage through time. Uncover the layers of history, witness the artistic tapestry of culture, and create memories that linger long after you bid farewell to this timeless Bulgarian gem. Veliko Tarnovo awaits, ready to unveil its treasures to the curious traveler.
11. The House with the Monkey: Kolyu Ficheto’s Architectural Jewel
In the heart of Veliko Tarnovo’s city center stands the House with the Monkey, a testament to the architectural prowess of Kolyu Ficheto. Built in 1849, the house is adorned with a sculpture of a monkey on its facade, making it an unmistakable landmark. Today, the house serves as both an architectural monument and a museum, inviting visitors to delve into the life and work of this master craftsman.
13. Nativity of Virgin Mary Orthodox Cathedral: A Spiritual Oasis
Revisit spiritual tranquility at the Nativity of Virgin Mary Orthodox Cathedral, an awe-inspiring testament to faith and architectural brilliance. Admire the meticulous frescoes that depict historic scenes, adding layers of cultural richness to this magnificent cathedral.
14. Church of St. Peter and Paul: A Resilient Testament to Time
Stand before the Church of St. Peter and Paul, a resilient structure rebuilt in the 1980s after the devastating earthquake of 1913. Marvel at its unique murals and architectural nuances, a testament to Bulgaria’s medieval heritage.
15. „Holy Forty Martyrs“ Church: Where Written Monuments Echo Through Time
Explore the „Holy Forty Martyrs“ Church, nestled near the Church of St. Peter and Paul. Here, significant written monuments for Bulgaria are housed, and the church is believed to be the final resting place of kings from Tarnovo.
16. „St. Demetrius“ Church: Where Bulgaria’s Uprising Found Its Voice
Visit the „St. Demetrius“ Church, one of Veliko Tarnovo’s oldest medieval churches. It holds historical significance as the site where the uprising against Byzantine rule was declared in 1185. This sacred place witnessed the coronation of the first rulers of the Assen Dynasty—Peter, Assen, and Kaloyan.
17. Museum of Illusions: A Journey Where Science Meets Entertainment
Dive into the whimsical world of the Museum of Illusions, which opened in 2020, where science intertwines with entertainment. Unleash your inner child as you navigate through dozens of physical and optical illusions, creating „unreal“ memories captured in photographs that defy reality.
18. Multimedia Visitors Centre „Tsarevgrad Tarnov“: A Wax Museum Chronicle
Explore the Multimedia Visitors Centre „Tsarevgrad Tarnov,“ known as the museum of wax figures. Delve into Veliko Tarnovo’s history through sculptures and murals depicting important figures from the Second Bulgarian Kingdom. This immersive experience offers a unique perspective on the city’s cultural evolution.
19. Archaeological Museum of Veliko Tarnovo: Unveiling Local Treasures
Journey through time at the Archaeological Museum, where ceramics, weapons, jewelry, and various artifacts from local excavations unveil the city’s rich archaeological tapestry. Gain insights into Veliko Tarnovo’s historical evolution through its treasures.
20. Revival and Constituent Assembly Museum: Witnessing Milestones in History
Step into the Revival and Constituent Assembly Museum, housed in the building of Konaka, constructed in 1872 by master Kolyu Ficheto. Immerse yourself in the economic development, struggles for national liberation, and the pivotal moments that shaped modern Bulgaria. The museum culminates in the restoration of the hall where the Constituent Assembly of 1879 laid the foundations for the nation’s progress.
21. House-Museum of Emilian Stanev: Commemorating a Literary Luminary
Near the Samovodska Charshia market lies the birthplace of the renowned Bulgarian writer Emilian Stanev. Today, the house has been transformed into the House-Museum of Emilian Stanev, where visitors can explore personal items of the writer, including his Remington typewriter—a portal into the creative mind of a literary master.
22. Sarafkina House (Museum of Urban Life): A Glimpse into Yesteryears
Discover the Sarafkina House, located near Gurko Street, which once served as both a residence and workspace for Dimo Sarafina. Transformed into a museum, it showcases impressive collections of pottery, icons, carved chests, musical instruments, handmade fabrics, and more—a vivid tapestry of urban life in bygone eras.
23. The Asenevtsi Monument: Four Kings on Horseback
Marvel at the Asenevtsi Monument, fondly known as „The Horses,“ erected in 1985. Dedicated to the Kings Asen, Peter, Kaloyan, and Ivan Asen II, this emblematic structure features four kings on horseback encircling a giant sword—an artistic portrayal symbolizing the power and rise of medieval Bulgaria.
25. Monument of Emilian Stanev: Honoring a Literary Legacy
Admire the Monument of Emilian Stanev, located in front of the House-Museum dedicated to the great Bulgarian writer. This tribute, erected in honor of Stanev’s contributions to literature, invites reflection on the impact of his words and the enduring legacy he left on Veliko Tarnovo.
26. Monument of Stefan Stambolov: A Commemoration of a Revolutionary Figure
Stand in reverence at the Monument of Stefan Stambolov, located at the beginning of the Samovodska Charshia Market. This monument pays homage to Stefan Stambolov, a multifaceted revolutionary, politician, writer, and journalist whose influence left an indelible mark on Bulgaria’s history.
In every corner of Veliko Tarnovo, history unfolds like a vibrant tapestry, and each attraction beckons you to be part of its narrative. As you traverse the city, let the echoes of the past guide your steps, and the cultural richness of Veliko Tarnovo captivate your heart. Embrace the enchantment of this Bulgarian gem, where time stands still, and the spirit of centuries past lingers in the air. Veliko Tarnovo awaits, ready to reveal its treasures to the curious traveler seeking to uncover the layers of history woven into its cobblestone streets and architectural wonders.
Images from Bulgaria On the go have been used in this article.
