Veliko Turnovo - a National Revival city

Turnovo is not only a mediaeval capital, it is also
a National Revival city. For 800 years now it has
towered over the Yantra river which meanders at
its feet. The houses are perched one above the
other on the steep slopes of the almost sheer banks. Situated 241
km northeast of Sofia, the city is known for its distinct and pictures-
que architecture which creates a feeling of warmth and coziness.
A view from Veliko Turnovo
 Monasteries
Treasures
Thracian tombs
World's oldest gold
The Madara horseman
Old Bulgarian Capitals
Museum towns
     Old Plovdiv
     Koprivshtitza
  l Veliko Turnovo
     Melnik
     Etara
     Kovachevica
Fortresses
The typical architecture is enhanced by the surrounding landscape. An enviable harmony with
nature has been achieved with great skill and an innate sense of beauty. The works of the self-
taught master Kolyo Ficheto are genuine masterpieces: Hadji Nikoli Inn, the Town Hall and the
St.St. Constantine and Helena Church. The city’s museums and art galleries house many valu-
able exhibits. Gurko Street is one of the city's architectural ensembles.
A National Revival houseThe Samovodene Markets, too have been revived to life with their small workshops where master goldsmiths, potters, carvers, weavers and pastry cooks are busy with their craft. The old photo studio is also well worth a visit.

Sights include the churches St. Demetrius (12th c.), Holy Forty Martyrs, built in 1230 by Tsar Ivan Assen II, and St. Peter and Paul (14th c.). Only 4 km from Veliko Turnovo is Arbanassi, a charming village with an eventful history and fascinating architecture. Thirty six of its 80 houses and the five local churches have been dada red national monuments of culture. The historic reserves Etara and Bozhentsi are located nearby.

The Tzarevetz hill

Related topics:
Veliko Turnovo - the Capital of
the Second Bulgarian Kingdom

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