Surrounded by staggering snow-capped mountain tops and huddled amidst magnificent pine woods, the Rila Moanstery has been the stronghold of Bulgarian Christianity for over 1000 years. It is an architectural miracle established in the late 10th C and has been granted UNESCO World Heritage status. Legend has it that the mountain river went miraculously dry so that the horse-driven carts loaded with construction materials could pass through.

St. John of Rila – the hermit who left a lasting mark

The monastery’s patron-saint and founder is St. John of Rila. Early on in his life John of Rila decided to live as a hermit and retreated in the high and deserted Rila Mountains. But word of his piety spread quickly and even King Petar decided to visit the holy man in his cave in the mountains. John of Rila, however, would not leave his seclusion and greeted the king only from a distance. He also accepted only the food that was offered to him and refused the gold. But despite his reclusive life, John of Rila attracted many followers and was proclaimed a saint while he was still alive. After his his death in 946 AD, his followers built a monastery in the saint’s initial place of habitation.

Present-day Rila Monastery

The construction of the present-day monastery which is the biggest in Bulgaria started around 13th-14th century. The striped black, white and red arches, the murals of saints and sinners and the stunning natural landscape, make the cloister a true spectacle. Its main church, the Holy Mother of Christ is a piece of art in its own right. Its walls and dome were painted by some of the best icon painters of the rime including Zahary Zograf.

The Rila Monastery treasures some of the most impressive icon paintings created in the 14th-19th centuries. The portrait of the monastery’s patron, St John of Rila, is the oldest icon in the monastery (14th C). Some other extremely valuable icons include that of St Arsenius (14th-15th C), the Assumption (15th-16th C), St George Enthroned (15th-16th C), John the Precursor, Archangel Michael and Christ Enthroned (17th C).
The iconostasis at the main altar is one of the masterpieces of the Samokov School of Master Wood Carvers. It is the biggest in Bulgaria and the only one that boasts exquisite gilted woodwork.
The tomb of the Bulgarian monarch King Boris III is also located inside the church.

The Hrelyu Tower

A devastating fire in 1778 destroyed much of the monastery. The only building that survived the flames was the Hrelyu Tower. This defensive structure, built in 1335 by a local feudal lord, still stands tall in the monastery’s courtyard. Legend has it that monks warded off attacks perched on top of the tower by pouring boiling-hot oil over any intruder. The tower has a chapel of its own. The murals and the old icon paintings inside it are superb and well-preserved examples of Medieval art. The earliest mural dates back to the 14th century and represents three scenes of the life of St. John of Rila.

The Monastery’s Museum

The artefacts exhibited inside the monastery’s museum reveal the miraculous story of the place. One of its most exquisite art pieces is the Rafali’s cross. The is the life work of the monk Rafali. For 12 consecutive years Rafaili toiled over his woodwork carving 36 different scenes from the Bible and a number of other figures. His exceptional cross is made from a single piece of wood and by the time Rafali completed it he had gone completely blind.

CHECK AVAILABILITY - Rila Monastery & Boyana Church - 2 World Heritage Sites in 1Day!

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We are traditionalists who are passionate about our folklore, culture, food, history, and nature. In order to provide our guests with an unparalleled experience, we explored every nook and cranny of our country. We met the winegrowers, farmers, and the elderly people who shared their stories with us. We simply fell in love with everything what Bulgaria has to offer and can hardly wait to show it to you.

IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A PRIVATE TOUR AND WANT TO DISCOVER MORE THAN THE TOURIST SIGHTS, THAN YOUR GUIDES ARE WAITING FOR YOU…

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as well as lots of practices that demonstrate the diversity of her cultural heritage and raise awareness about its importance. You’ve probably heard about the Rila Monastery, but have you heard about the tradition of carpet making in Chiprovtsi, or the SURVA Festival… Have a look at our list, you might find some incredible tips for an unforgettable local experience…

Rila Monastery

UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Rila Mountains, which is an original national museum with more than 11 centuries old history. The monastery dates back to the 10th century but has been plundered and burned down several times. The present building has been built in the mid-19th century. Located in the gorgeous mountain scenery of the Rila mountains, it is considered the highest achievement of Bulgarian monumental architecture of the National Revival period.  Of particular interest is the museum, and the 1335 Hrelyo’s Tower, which is actually the oldest preserved building in the courtyard. Alongside is the big five-dome church Assumption of the Holy Virgin with splendid frescoes by some of Bulgaria’s finest artists of the time.

Visit the monastery with us and take a day trip from Sofia

• Rila Monastery – Wikipedia
• Rila Monastery – official website 

Boyana Church

The 10th century Boyana Church is a remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site. The murals of this famous church reflect both Byzantine and local traditions of the preceding two centuries. One of the portraits in the church is unanimously considered a genuine masterpiece of 13th century painting, created 200 years before the European renaissance. They form a second layer over the paintings from earlier centuries and represent one of the most complete and well-preserved monuments of mediaeval art in the Balkans.

Take a ride to the outskirts of Sofia and visit Boyana Church

• Boyana Church – official website
• Boyana Church – Unesco

Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak

A UNESCO world heritage site, part of the Royal Thracian necropolis where more than 1 500 tombs of kings and members were excavated. Dating back to the 4^th-3^rd century BC the frescoes are representing a couple at a ritual funeral feast. The paintings of the round burial chamber are Bulgaria’s best-preserved artistic masterpieces from the Hellenistic period therefore the original tomb is closed for visitors. People nowadays can enter the replica and see part of the Royal treasures at the beginning of the entrance.

• Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak  – Wikipedia
• Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak  – Unesco

Tjracian Tomb of  Sveshtari

Although Bulgaria has more than 1500 tombs, Sveshtari offers a unique experience. People can get into the original sanctuary and stay within inches of the frescoes and statues dating back to the 3rd century BC. The tomb is the burial site of a royal couple from the Thracian tribe – Getae. The archaeological remains confirm that they had practised ruler cult and minted their own coins. Good to know is that only a limited amount of people are allowed each day through the climate-controlled space.

• Thracian Tomb of Sveshtari  – Wikipedia
• Thracian Tomb of Sveshtari  – Unesco

The Rock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo

Medieval frescoes in rock-hewn monasteries on limestone cliffs – the churches became part of UNESCO in 1979. The caves in the region had been inhabited by the monks from the 12^th century till the late 17^th. The frescoes are dating back to the 13—14^th century and people can visit them between March and November. Close to the Danube, near Ruse, Bulgaria has one more site listed in UNESCO and this the Natural reserve of Srebarna.

Check wit us what else you can visit near the “Blue Danube” river 

• Rock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo – Wikipedia
• Rock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo – Unesco

Madara Horesman

The 7^th century old rock relief is dated back to the First Bulgarian Empire and became part of UNESCO in 1979. There are still discussions going on about who resembles this unique rock cut. Is it one of our rulers at that time Khan Tervel, Khan Omurtag, Khan Krum or is it just a Thracian warrior? Some think that is a part of the Sassanian rock relief tradition – the last kingdom of the Persian Empire. The complex underneath the monument is considered to be a pagan shrine where a sacral rituals were held by the rulers. The Rider of Madara can be seen on your way between Veliko Turnovo and our Sea capital – Varna.

• The Madara Rider or Madara Horseman – Wikipedia
• The Madara Rider or Madara Horseman – Unesco

Nessebar

Also knows as “The pearl of the Black Sea” is an ancient city and a major seaside resort. In 1956 it was declared “a museum-town, an archaeological and architectural reserve”. Due to the city’s abundance of historic buildings the entire city was listed as a UNESCO world cultural heritage monument. In its thousand years of existence, the town bears medieval walls, Byzantine and Bulgarian churches dating back to the 5^th century and history that will take you back in time.

• Nessebar – Wikipedia
• Ancient City of Nessebar – Unesco

The tradition of carpet-making in Chiprovtsi

This unique Bulgarian tradition of carpet-making became part of the UNESCO list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2014. The handwoven carpets (kilimi) have been made by the women of Chiprovtsi using a unique technique of weaving on a vertical hand-loom that is unchanged since the 17^th century. Today, there are 27 different motifs that are listed as typical of the Chiprovtsi carpets, each of which represents a particular religious belief of Bulgarians. Read more – Click here.

• The tradition of carpet-making in Chiprovtsi -Unesco

Surva Festival

In ancient Bulgaria, wearing masks was believed to provide protection from evil, ensure a successful harvest, and guarantee health and fertility for humans and farm animals. Many of these pagan rituals, which were later incorporated into Christianity, are still performed in eastern Bulgaria between the holidays of Christmas and Easter. In 1995 the International Federation of Carnival Cities accepted the town of Pernik as a full member. In June, 2009, Pernik was proclaimed as the European capital of Survas & Mummers and included in the UNESCO list of the Intangible Heritage of Humanity. Read more – Click here.

• Surva folk feast in Pernik region -Unesco
• Surva Festival

Nestinarstvo – Fire Dance

The origin of Nestinarstvo, a ritual that involves dancing on hot coals, remains something of a mystery. Most believe that this unique tradition originated with the ancient Thracians, for whom the ritual combined sun worship with the cult of earth and fire. People from the village of Bulgari believe the fire purifies the soul, chases away disease and evil, and forgives the sins of the present. In 2009, the fire-dancing was included in the UNESCO list of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Read more – Click here.

• Nestinarstvo – Wikipedia
• Nestinarstvo – Unesco

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In the far south of Bulgaria, a megalithic stone complex rises on a hill in the Eastern Rhodope Mountains of Bulgaria. This 8,000 year old prehistoric shrine, which is today known as the ancient Thracian city of Perperikon, was originally built by an advanced unnamed prehistoric civilization that worshiped the Sun God. During the ensuing centuries, it was adopted as a holy place by the Thracians, Romans, Byzantines, and finally by modern Bulgarians.

Important discoveries at the site include a 5th century Christian bishop’s residence, which may have been the largest temple on the Balkan Peninsula. More recently, four tombs from the Early Christian and Early Byzantine period (5-6^th centuries) as well as a large necropolis with over 200 graves have been excavated.

Throughout history, people referred to this place as “the Holy Mount” for reasons that are easily understood. The little Perpershka River, whose gold-bearing sands attracted mankind for years, made the place one the most fertile spots in Eastern Rhodope. Ancient shamans purposely built the sanctuary on the very steep slopes of the mountains, making it accessible from only one direction. With such restricted access, they could perform rituals and pray for fertility and health without interruption. A vessel found in one of the large oval halls, showing a scene with six human figures surrounding a key image of the Sun, supports this theory of a sun-worshiping civilization.

Later, the city of Perperikon became the sanctuary of Zagreus, the God of wine, who was known in Greek mythology as Dionysus. The relationship has led some experts to theorize that the site was the Ancient Temple of Dionysus. If so, notable figures such as Alexander the Great, the Egyptian ruler Ptolemy II, and the Roman Emperor Julius Caesar Augustus may have worshiped at Perperikon, just as they consulted the oracle at the temple of Apollo in Delphi. Some even believe this to be the site where Alexander the Great received his prophecy about crossing the Dardanelles and entering Asia for the battle with the Persians. His visits were strongly connected to the epoch of the most powerful empires of all time – the Roman Empire, which absorbed Thrace in 45 AD..

Modern day archaeological works have discovered that Perperikon is not the only gigantic rock facility cut in the Rhodope Mountains. There were two more particularly significant sacred places – the temple of the Great Mother Goddess and the earliest sanctuary of the great Prophet-singer Orpheus, who had the ability to charm all living things (even the stones) with his music. It is believed that Orpheus and king Rhesus (another Thracian ruler) were the only two leaders buried above ground, on a top of a hill. The Thracian sanctuary, later known by the name Tatul, was also closely linked to the cult of Orpheus. The Thracians, and particularly the tribe of the Satrians, were described by the renowned Greek historian Herodotus as a freedom-loving and independent people. But the most important cultural aspect of the tribe may have been their devotion to sites like Perperikon, which they believed protected the entire region from diseases and natural disasters.

At the end of the 3^rd century times of prosperity have passed and the period was called “the golden age” of the Temple of Dionysus. The rock temple was protected by strong fortress with 2.8 m thick walls and although a significant part of the quarters has not yet been unearthed, visitors can step into well-preserved buildings. Latest research revealed evidence of very high level of building culture and life standard. Sharp cuts stairs and doors cut out in the rocks are leading towards the ceremonial hall of the Palace – Shrine. Several preserved windows are showing the gorgeous view of the river valley and you can recognize with your own eye a throne with armrests and footrest. Today we can only make conjectures about many of the details in the palace.

While travelling between the sanctuaries you can come across another unique formation also known as “The Deaf stones”. They represent rock blocks with deep cut out niches and the interesting fact is that, when you stand between them, there is no echo. They have a perfect shape of a trapezoid and no one can really say what their purpose was till today.

When the Bulgarians invaded the Balkan Peninsula in the 7^th century they were amazed by the construction of the city of Perperikon. At that time they were not Christians and yet they used to honour the heavenly god of Tangra (another name for the Sun God) and Umai (the Mother Goddess of Fertility). Bulgarians often scratched drawings of their Gods therefore figure of the proto-Bulgarian Goddess of fertility can be seen on some of the rocks. Another gold-plated silver amulet with prayer was discovered in the chest of a 10 year old boy in one of the necropolis in Perperikon. Unfortunately, during the Ottoman rule this place was completely abandoned and forgotten for 5 centuries.

Even though it was destroyed, the fortress walls were monumental enough to be noticed and in 1989 the Bulgarian state financed the project of Perperikon. The ancient Holy city became scientific and media sensation since then.

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NASA

1. In 1977 Nasa included one of Bulgaria’s best-known folk songs on the Voyager Golden Record! The song was recorded in a classroom by American collector (Martin Coning) of folklore only with the sound of one bagpipe and the voice of the Valya Balkanska – Izlei e Delyo Haidutin. The bagpipe on the Balkans is called Gayda. The images and sounds selected for the two phonograph records are meant to portray an image of life on earth to any extra-terrestrial beings the craft may encounter.

Plovdiv

2. Plovdiv was chosen for the European Capital of Culture for 2019. It was found during the Neolithic period in the 2nd millennium BC and it is the oldest inhabited city in the world! Plovdiv was the largest Roman city on the Balkan Peninsula and the Episcopal Basilica with its mosaics was included just recently in the UNESCO’s Indicative List of Significant Cultural and Natural Objects. The Ancient Theatre it is a home very often to some of the world’s known performances.

The oldest processed gold in the world was found near the Black Sea in Varna, Bulgaria!

3.  A worker who was excavating in the area in 1972 discovered an ancient Necropolis (grave site). To date, 294 graves have been found at the site, which dates to between 4600 and 4200 BC. One particularly rich grave contained 3,000 gold artifacts, an amount greater that the combined total of all other known sites in the world form that era. The cache was shown for first time in United States in 1988, in New York City in 2009 – 2010 and it was exhibited for 7 months in Japan as “The Oldest Gold in the World – The First European Civilization“.

Glagolitic alphabet was devised by St. Cyril and Methodius

4. Glagolitic alphabet was devised by St. Cyril and Methodius in the 850s and introduced to the world by the First Bulgarian Empire in 886 AD. At the beginning of the 10th century the Glagolitic alphabet was gradually substitute by the Cyrillic script developed around the Preslav Literary School, Bulgaria. The Cyrillic script became the third official script of the European Union in 2007, following the Latin and Greek ones.

Bulgaria is the world’s largest producer of lavender

5. Bulgaria is the world’s largest producer of lavender and the second world’s largest producer of rose oil. Did you know that for one kg of rose oil you need 3.5 tons of rose petals?

The Bulgarian tradition of carpet-making in Chiprovtsi became part of the UNESCO list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2014   

6. The handwoven carpets (kilimi) have been made by the women of Chiprovtsi using a unique technique of weaving on a vertical handloom that is unchanged since the 17th century. The women say prayers and make wishes for luck and success before starting a new carpet, and sing and tell stories while working at the loom.

Mineral springs

7. More than 2 000 mineral springs in the country and in additional you can pour the healing water into your bottle almost on every corner. Well, not only corner… Almost on every curve of the route, in the middle of the main square or just from your tap at home. Yes, only in Sofia we have 31 separate reservoirs and 75 water sources of mineral waters, which makes the Capital one of the richest municipalities in the world by mineral water wealth.

Lactobacillus Bulgaricus

8. Now get into your 5 senses…which pops into your mind first? Perhaps it will be your sense of taste. Dairy lovers may be aware that the bacteria strain needed to produce yoghurt‘s mild texture is called “Lactobacillus Bulgaricus”. But did you know that these natural bacteria are found only in mammals and plants living in Bulgaria? It’s true!

European Capital of Survas & Mummers

9. In ancient Bulgaria, wearing masks was believed to provide protection from evil, ensure a successful harvest, and guarantee health and fertility for humans and farm animals. Many legends date back to the 7th centuries the First Bulgarian Empire, however other tales relate to the Thracian times. In 1995 the International Federation of Carnival Cities accepted the town of Pernik as a full member. In June, 2009, Pernik was proclaimed as the European Capital of Survas & Mummers and included in the UNESCO list of the Intangible Heritage of Humanity.

Zagreus was a Thracian god later known as Dionysus – the God of wine

10. Our grape growing is dating back to the 4th millennium BC, when our lands were inhabited by the Thracians. Zagreus was a Thracian god later known as Dionysus – the God of wine. Did you know that the Thracians wine was even mentioned in the Iliad – an ancient Greek poem? The Wine Museum of Pleven is a perfect combination of a natural cave, degustation room and cold white wine. But not only! The museum holds selection of over 7000 bottles of wine, ranging from 30 to 90 years and items related to the vine growing in the Bulgarian lands from the ancient Thracian times until today.   

The Misionis Fortress 

11. The Misionis Fortress (5-6th century) is located in the Preslav Mountains just 20 min away from the main route to Varna, Bulgaria. The place was mentioned three times in the book of Muhammad al-Idrisi – “The book of pleasant journeys into faraway lands” as a flourishing town. He was the drawer of one of the most advanced ancient world maps in 1154 – The Tabula Rogeriana – Arab Muslim cartographer, geographer and Egyptologist.

The Deaf Stones

12. “The Deaf Stones” Thracian Sanctuary are Rock blocks with deep gorges cut. A large cult monument in Bulgaria and you can see several of these unique formations in Rhodopi Mountains. The bed, the niche cut in the eastern part and a carved tomb chamber seems to be unfinished, but who would know how they’ve looked like before the Earthquake in the 4th century AD?!

Sultans Trail

13. Arda River is a tributary of Maritsa River connecting Bulgaria and Greece. The villages around this river are included in one of the most famous routes called the “Sultans Trail” – long-distance footpath from Vienna to Istanbul(2 200 km/ 1 400 ml)

Villa Armira

14. Near Ivaylovgrad, Haskovo province of Bulgaria – Villa Armira is dating back to the 1st century and it is believed that belonged to a noble Roman Thrace. Some of the most unique mosaics can be seen in the 22 separate rooms. The marble decoration, geometric figures, animals and plants display features typical of Ancient Roman art. She was named after the River Armira, minor tributary of River Arda.

Orpheus

15. We all have heard about Orpheus – legendary musician, prophet and poet who had the ability to charm all living things (even the stones) with his music. It is believed that Orpheus and king Rhesus (another Thracian ruler) were the only two leaders buried overground – on a top of a hill. Tatul is a Thracian sanctuary where this ritual is closely linked to the cult of Orpheus and many clay altars dating back to 18-19 century BC are proving that it was used without interruption during the Iron Age.  

Magura Cave

16. Magura Cave is one of the few cave complexes in the world where you can stand within inches of prehistoric paintings that were painted between 8,000 and 10,000 years ago. And the visit of the cave can be combined with a tasting of some of the best wines in the country, specially selected to mature in natural conditions.

St. Alexander Nevsky”Cathedral

17. One of the largest Orthodox Churches in Europe “St. Alexander Nevsky”Cathedral can hold up to 10 000 people at once. The temple has 12 bells and the heaviest is weighing 12 tons. The Cathedral was designed by Alexander Pomerantsev and it was built in honour to the Russian soldiers who died in the Russo-Turkish war and liberated Bulgaria from the Ottoman Rule.

Eco trails

18. Over 140 eco trails on a 111 000 square kilometres – this is our Bulgaria. More than 20 are near Sofia and having a picnic in the forest is the first thing that comes up to my mind when I think of quiet weekend

The Rock-hewn Churches of Ivanovo

19. Unique frescoes from the rock-hewn monasteries in the limestone cliffs of Rusenski Lom. The Rock-hewn Churches of Ivanovo became part of the UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 1979. Remarkable artistry for the 13-14th century and mastery in the art of the Second Bulgarian Empire.

The salvation of the Bulgarian Jews from the Holocaust

20. Memorial of “The salvation of the Bulgarian Jews from the Holocaust”. Did you know that Bulgaria is one of the countries that saved all their Jews three times from deportation to the concentration camps? Dimitur Peshev, Exarch Stefan of Bulgaria and Kiril, Metropolitan of Plovdiv are names that we should remember and be proud of. The rescue has been praised by public figures worldwide. 

The National Theatre of Ivan Vazov   

21. The National Theatre of Ivan Vazov in Sofia. A name that will live forever as the Symbol of the National Awakening in Bulgaria. Did you know that “Under the yoke” by Ivan Vazov was translated into over 30 languages in 1888? The famous “Epic of the Forgotten” was written right after the liberation of Bulgaria and left a huge mark in our hearts.

Sofia is Bulgaria’s capital 

22. Sofia is built in three layers. This hidden Rotunda or the Church of St. George can be found in the middle of the city centre of Sofia, Bulgaria. She was built in the 4th century as a second layer … Read more about our history before that period and soon you will find out why Bulgaria is claiming to be the First European Civilization.

Black Sea

23. The Black Sea turned last summer into a turquoise heaven thanks to a phytoplankton bloom. It was so bright that even NASA took a satellite image of the bloom. Blue sky, fresh air and sun-kissed beaches…The Summer is on its way!

We are traditionalists who are passionate about our folklore, culture, food, history, and nature. In order to provide our guests with an unparalleled experience, we explored every nook and cranny of our country. We met the winegrowers, farmers, and the elderly people who shared their stories with us. We simply fell in love with everything what Bulgaria has to offer and can hardly wait to show it to you.

Looking for more ideas:

• History & Culture
• Nature & Outdoor activities
• Festivals and more …
• Day trips from Sofia

IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A PRIVATE TOUR AND WANT TO DISCOVER MORE THAN THE TOURIST SIGHTS, THAN YOUR GUIDES ARE WAITING FOR YOU…

Did we get your attention? Let’s start our journey through Bulgaria together and discover it all!  

Create your own itinerary

The post GET OFF THE BEATEN TRACK IN EUROPE – BULGARIA ! appeared first on Bulgaria Tours | Sofia Day Trips | Private Tours | Undiscovered Bulgaria.

Plovdiv

Plovdiv is one of the oldest cities in the world! The city was chosen for the European Capital of Culture for 2019. It was found during the Neolithic period in the 2nd millennium BC. The Roman Theatre, The Stadium and other archaeological finds from the 2nd century are mixing with the Revival Architecture of the old town. Plovdiv was the largest Roman city on the Balkan Peninsula and the Episcopal Basilica with its mosaics was included just recently in the UNESCO’s Indicative List of Significant Cultural and Natural Objects.

Tatul

Tatul is a Thracian sanctuary dating back to the 18-20th Century BC. It is located in Kurdzhali province, Eastern Rhodopes. We all have heard about Orpheus – legendary musician, prophet and poet who had the ability to charm all living things (even the stones) with his music. It is believed that Orpheus and king Rhesus (another Thracian ruler) were the only two leaders buried overground – on a top of a hill. Tatul is a place where this ritual is closely linked to the cult of Orpheus and many clay altars dating back to 18-19 century BC are proving that it was used without interruption during the Iron Age.

Perperikon

PERPERIKON – The Holy city of the ancient Thracians. This 8,000 year old prehistoric shrine, which is today known as the ancient Thracian city of Perperikon, was originally built by an advanced unnamed prehistoric civilization that worshipped the Sun God. During the ensuing centuries, it was adopted as a holy place by the Thracians, Romans, Byzantines, and finally by Bulgarians.
[See image gallery at undiscoveredbulgaria.com]  

Villa Armira

Near Ivaylovgrad, Haskovo province of Bulgaria – Villa Armira is dating back to the 1st century and it is believed that belonged to a noble Roman Thrace. Some of the most unique mosaics can be seen in the 22 separate rooms. The marble decoration, geometric figures, animals and plants display features typical of Ancient Roman art. She was named after the River Armira, minor tributary of River Arda.

The Deaf Stones

“The Deaf Stones” Thracian Sanctuary are Rock blocks with deep gorges cut. A large cult monument in Bulgaria and you can see several of these unique formations in Rhodopi Mountains. The bed, the niche cut in the eastern part and a carved tomb chamber seems to be unfinished, but who would know how they’ve looked like before the Earthquake in the 4th century AD? Another interesting fact is that between the rocks there is no echo and therefore people call them the deaf stones.

Belogradchik Fortress

Belogradchik Fortress was constructed by the Romans dating back to the late Antiquity and the rock formations were serving as a natural protection. The Rocks itself were formed 230 million years ago. It is located on the north slopes of the Balkan Mountains also known as the Old Mountains. Later on was extended by the Bulgarian tsar of Vidin Ivan Stratsimir. In 1396 the fortress was captured by the Ottomans and had an important role during the uprising 1850s, and used in warfare during the Serbo-Bulgarian war.
[See image gallery at undiscoveredbulgaria.com]

The Church of St. George

The Church of St. George can be found in the middle of the city centre of Sofia, Bulgaria and it was built in the 4th century. It is considered to be the oldest building in Sofia. The Early Christian Rotunda has three layers of frescoes and the earliest is dating back to the 10th century. St Sofia is dating back to the 4-6^th century and it’s the second oldest church in Bulgaria. She gave its name to the city in the 14th century.

Veliko Tarnovo

Veliko Tarnovo or so-called the “City of Tsars” represents the perfect combination and variety of the medieval and revival architecture in Bulgaria. The fortress Tsarevets is dating back to the 12^th century during the Second Bulgarian Empire. However the earliest evidence of human habitation dates back to the 2nd millennium BC.

The Rock-hewn Churches of Ivanovo

Unique frescoes from the rock-hewn monasteries in the limestone cliffs of Rusenski Lom. The Rock-hewn Churches of Ivanovo became part of the UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 1979. Remarkable artistry for the 13-14th century and mastery in the art of the Second Bulgarian Empire.
[See image gallery at undiscoveredbulgaria.com]

Magura Cave

Magura Cave is one of the few cave complexes in the world where you can stand within inches of prehistoric paintings that were painted between 8,000 and 10,000 years ago. And a visit to Magura can be combined with drinking some of the best preserved wines and champagne, specially selected to mature in natural conditions. She is located 25km/16ml away from the Belogradchik Fortress.

We are traditionalists who are passionate about our folklore, culture, food, history, and nature. In order to provide our guests with an unparalleled experience, we explored every nook and cranny of our country. We met the winegrowers, farmers, and the elderly people who shared their stories with us. We simply fell in love with everything what Bulgaria has to offer and can hardly wait to show it to you.

Looking for more ideas:

• History & Culture
• Nature & Outdoor activities
• Festivals and more …
• Day trips from Sofia

IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A PRIVATE TOUR AND WANT TO DISCOVER MORE THAN THE TOURIST SIGHTS, THAN YOUR GUIDES ARE WAITING FOR YOU…

Did we get your attention? Let’s start our journey through Bulgaria together and discover it all! 

Create your own itinerary  

The post TOP 10 PLACES NOT TO MISS ON YOUR VISIT TO BULGARIA! appeared first on Bulgaria Tours | Sofia Day Trips | Private Tours | Undiscovered Bulgaria.

In ancient Bulgaria, wearing masks was believed to provide protection from evil, ensure a successful harvest, and guarantee health and fertility for humans and farm animals. Many of these pagan rituals, which were later incorporated into Christianity, are still performed in eastern Bulgaria between the holidays of Christmas and Easter. Rituals held around the New Year are known as Surva, while those performed around Easter are known as Kukeri. Today the International Festival of the Masquerade Games, held in the town of Pernik, still celebrates these customs. During the festival, which is the biggest event on the Balkan Peninsula, single men and women called Kukeri and Survakari, don traditional Bulgarian costumes and elaborate masks and parade down the streets of Pernik.

[See image gallery at undiscoveredbulgaria.com]

The festival’s mystery

On average, around 6,000 people (about 100 groups) from every folklore region of Bulgaria, as well as companies from Europe, Asia, and Africa take part in the contest. The contestants come here to win, to experience the atmosphere, to have fun and be part of the magic. For three whole days they sing and perform a series of intricate dance steps, ringing bells as they wind through the streets. Participants interact freely with the audience along the parade routes and on stages set up throughout the town. People often want to touch the masks for good luck and good health. An incandescent fiery spectacle, bonfires and light shows, envelop participants in the festival’s mystery.

UNESCO

Many legends date back to the 7^th centuries the First Bulgarian Empire, however other tales relate to the Thracian times. In 1995 the International Federation of Carnival Cities accepted the town of Pernik as a full member. In June, 2009, Pernik was proclaimed as the European capital of Survas & Mummers and included in the UNESCO list of the Intangible Heritage of Humanity.

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For more information:

• Surova folk feast in Pernik region

Looking for more ideas:

• History & Culture
• Nature & Outdoor activities
  
• Festivals and more …
• Day trips from Sofia

We are traditionalists who are passionate about our folklore, culture, food, history, and nature. In order to provide our guests with an unparalleled experience, we explored every nook and cranny of our country. We met the winegrowers, farmers, and the elderly people who shared their stories with us. We simply fell in love with everything what Bulgaria has to offer and can hardly wait to show it to you.

IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A PRIVATE TOUR AND WANT TO DISCOVER MORE THAN THE TOURIST SIGHTS, THAN YOUR GUIDES ARE WAITING FOR YOU…

Did we get your attention? Let’s start our journey through Bulgaria together and discover it all!  

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Do you want to feel like a real local in a new country?

Probably you haven’t heard the word “sabor”…. And do not even Google it, because what you will find as a translation will not be even close to what it means for the locals in Bulgaria. So here is a small hint! This is a kind of an old word that we used instead of “festival”. “Sabor” in Cyrillic comes from “sabiram” which means together. Bulgarians love to celebrate each day, they love to gather together and they will always find a reason to have some fun.

I am not sure if you ever heard something about a Name Day, but in Bulgaria this day is even more important than the Birthday. For example, on this day your doors should be wide open for everybody. You do not invite friends, but they come anyway, so you have to be ready with the table before your guests.

But let’s go back to the word “sabor”. You might not believe, but each weekend of the year, somewhere in some village in Bulgaria people would be dancing on the main square and celebrate something unusual. We give honour to the Patron of the city, honour to the flowers, honour to the fruits, vegetables, water… and if you think that this cannot be true…. we invite you not as a tourist, but as a friend. Learn more about our traditions, festivals and explore the country as a local. Here are some ideas if you want to plan this year or next one…or two…

Check with us the dates for the upcoming festivals, before you start your trip.

January – International festival of the Masquerade games.

In ancient Bulgaria, wearing masks was believed to provide protection from evil, ensure a successful harvest, and guarantee health and fertility for humans and farm animals. Many of these pagan rituals, which were later incorporated into Christianity, are still performed in eastern Bulgaria between the holidays of Christmas and Easter. Dancing in the iced cold river? YEP! Nothing can scare the Bulgarian spirit.

February – Wines and vines

this month is given an honour to the vines, vineyards, wine-makers and the like. We do celebrate 14^th of February (1^st of February – new style), but here people won’t send just valentines cards, instead they will visit a local winery, women will prepare a traditional bread and people will be dressed with typical Bulgarian clothes, sing and dance to invite the spring to their lands.

March – Welcome Spring

and goodbye Winter! On 1^st of March, Bulgarians will put a white and red strings around their wrists, will hang them in their homes, on their cars, will pin them to their clothes and hope for a good year. And all of this, because they believe that the ritual will bring them health and fertility to the Mother Earth. This tradition is part of the UNESCO’s list of protected cultural practices.

April – Easter

Yes! But not only… This month will be remembered in our history with the National Revival Movement during the Ottoman rule. On 20^th of April, thousands of people will drive to Koprivshtitsa (1h and 30 min away from Sofia) and give honour to the few people, who were brave enough to raise their heads and ask for freedom.

May – Festival of the Chiprovtsi carpets,

Folklore festival in Veliko Tarnovo, the day of St. Cyril and Methodius, who gave to the world the Cyrillic alphabet. More than 3 million people write in our alphabet and all of this would not be possible without our Bulgarian Tsar Boris I. Did you know that? If not, we will be more than happy to tell you all about.

June

Already in the end of May we will start with the Rose Festival in Kazanlak and continue till almost the middle of June. Followed by Music Festivals in Plovdiv, Cherry Festivals, Brandy Festivals and the like.

July

The Music Festivals will continue, but now on the Sea coast with its blue waters and sun-kissed beaches.

Folklore Festivals with fire dancers,

Festival of the National Costumes in Zheravna, Rhodopi Festival with hundreds of bagpipes playing at once, The Week of the Balkan Mountains… If you do not like crowds, prepare yourself, because August is rammed and if you just want a quiet place to sit down, you have to take your earplugs with you.

September

We celebrate our Independence Day on 22^nd of September, but can we go a whole month without music and dancing? No! Here we will have a Dance week and Plum Festival. We will buy hundreds of bottles and fill them up with plum brandy, because “winter is coming”.

November – 1^st of November is the day of our National Heroes

And the unofficial Birthday of our Project – Undiscovered Bulgaria. We will definitely prepare something special for you.

December

Here is no need to mention even the Christmas, New Year’s Eve … Reserve your table in a Traditional Bulgarian restaurant at least 3 months ahead of time, because as we said, Bulgarians love to celebrate and they do celebrate the whole December. Company events, parties, St Nikolaus Day, The Students day or just the “Day of the Day“!

Looking for more ideas:

• History & Culture
• Nature & Outdoor activities
  
• Festivals and more …
• Day trips from Sofia

We are traditionalists who are passionate about our folklore, culture, food, history, and nature. In order to provide our guests with an unparalleled experience, we explored every nook and cranny of our country. We met the winegrowers, farmers, and the elderly people who shared their stories with us. We simply fell in love with everything what Bulgaria has to offer and can hardly wait to show it to you.

IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A PRIVATE TOUR AND WANT TO DISCOVER MORE THAN THE TOURIST SIGHTS, THAN YOUR GUIDES ARE WAITING FOR YOU…

Did we get your attention? Let’s start our journey through Bulgaria together and discover it all!  

Create your own itinerary

The post TRADITIONS & FESTIVALS – BULGARIA appeared first on Bulgaria Tours | Sofia Day Trips | Private Tours | Undiscovered Bulgaria.

Originally, Bulgarian embroidery proclaimed the social status and ethnic origin of a person.  “Tree of life,” “Young sun,” and “Circle of life” are just some of the motifs associated with the craft. Undoubtedly, sun motifs were the most important symbols. Ancient Thracians, who are generally accepted to be the ancestors of present-day Bulgarians, worshiped the cult of the sun. Contemporary Bulgarian life is still rife with motifs that represent the sun. One such symbol is a double cross known as an “Elbetitsa.”

In Mediaeval times it represented the four cardinal directions of the material world and the four intermediate directions of the immaterial world, coming together at the center. In short, it was the personification of Bulgarian power. The double cross symbol is also prevalent in Buddhism, where it represents the wheel of life and the path to Enlightenment. Today “Elbetitsa” represents the Bulgarian awakening, a passionate devotion to keep the ancient traditions alive, whether they are used in embroidery, woodcarving, or other crafts.

This symbol was the inspiration for our logo:

We are traditionalists who are passionate about our folklore, culture, food, history, and nature. In order to provide our guests with an unparalleled experience, we explored every nook and cranny of our country. We met the winegrowers, farmers, and the elderly people who shared their stories with us. We simply fell in love with everything what Bulgaria has to offer and can hardly wait to show it to you.

Looking for more ideas:

• History & Culture
• Nature & Outdoor activities
• Festivals and more …
• Day trips from Sofia

IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A PRIVATE TOUR AND WANT TO DISCOVER MORE THAN THE TOURIST SIGHTS, THAN YOUR GUIDES ARE WAITING FOR YOU…

Did we get your attention? Let’s start our journey through Bulgaria together and discover it all!  

Create your own itinerary

The post BULGARIAN EMBROIDERY appeared first on Bulgaria Tours | Sofia Day Trips | Private Tours | Undiscovered Bulgaria.