Veliko Tarnovo

A city suspended in time tumbles down the emerald hills of northern Bulgaria and lands on the banks of the ethereal Yantra River. This is Veliko Tarnovo, the former historical capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire. Many know it by the epithet “City of the Tsars”. And, there is much more to its historic value than meets the eye. In medieval times, Veliko Tarnovo served as the seat of Bulgaria’s highest nobility. They left their mark on the town with spectacular churches. Today’s city harbors an eclectic collection of both the modern and the aged. An exuberant community that knows how to cherish a town so rich bolsters it even more.

Royal splendor emanates from the city’s buildings. But, it never contradicts its idyllic charm and tasteful austerity. Follow the cobblestone lanes of Tarnovo, and you will reach Bulgaria’s finest churches. These mustard, tile-roofed sanctuaries pepper the three hills as far as the eye can see. Among the Orthodox churches, the Patriarchal Cathedral and the Nativity of Mary Church are the most catchy. The influence of Ottoman, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture turns each quarter into little worlds onto themselves.

Check out the stone bridges stretching over the translucent waters of the Yantra. Poised for leisurely strolls, the riverside walkways host the city’s most iconic cafes and inns. Once the main marketplace of the city, the lane retains much of its authentic charm in workhouses and craft shops. The social scene here is enough to cause a stir. But if you are looking for more, Samovodska Charsiya is the place to be.