Our guide to exploring Bulgaria’s heritage

Calling all culture vultures and history buffs; if you’ve marvelled at the old masters in the Uffizi, stood in reverent awe in front of the Parthenon, and strolled the ostentatious hallways of Versailles, you might be on the lookout for your next European getaway. But while France, Italy and their neighbours may be first to mind, could we suggest heading further east than those more well-trodden destinations to Bulgaria? With a history dating back to the Middle Paleolithic Period and traces of the Bronze Age horse-worshipping Thracian tribes remaining to this day, Bulgaria boasts a long and varied past that demands to be explored. A tumultuous history of empires, conquests and revolutions plays out in extensive Roman remains, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, museums and churches, and has given rise to a cultural wealth in its festivals, wine, culinary experiences, and much more. Without further ado, dive into this Bulgaria heritage guide as we inspire your next trip!

Travel back through millennia of ancient history

Bulgaria’s history is woven with many threads of diverse cultures and civilisations, from the Thracian period with its rich mythology and skilled craftsmanship to the later conquests and empires. In the 7th century BCE, the Greeks established colonies along the Black Sea coast, influencing local culture and trade. In 46 CE, Bulgaria became part of the Roman Empire, bringing urbanisation and infrastructure. The 7th century marked the arrival of the Bulgars, leading to the formation of the First Bulgarian Empire in 681 and an era of significant cultural and religious developments, shaping Bulgaria’s identity for centuries to come.

These early periods left a mark on the country that can still be seen today. Explore the largest Thracian royal site in the country in Starossel village or the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Nesebŭr, once a Thracian settlement before becoming a Greek colony in the 6th century BCE, and uncover Thracian remains in the museums of Panagyurishte and Eastern Rhodopes. From the Valley of Roses to the Mountain of Orpheus, the lifestyle and traditions of Bulgaria’s early inhabitants can be found in Early Hellenistic frescoes at the replica of the Kazanlak Tomb and in the Thracian tomb at Alexandrovo village, where vivid frescoes depict ancient hunting scenes.

A visit to Plovdiv brings you to the oldest city in Europe still in existence today. From its original 4th century BCE incarnation as Philippopolis in honour of Alexander the Great’s father King Philip II, to the 2019 European Capital of Culture, the city is a vibrantly historic and cultural spot. You’ll need a comfy pair of shoes to take in all it has to offer, with the Ethnographical Museum, St. Constantine and Elena Church, Bishop’s Basilica, and the Roman Stadium vying for attention with the Church of the Virgin Mary which dates back to the reign of Emperor Marcus Aurelius.

Historic capital cities: explore Bulgaria’s history through its changing seats of power

The ebb and flow of Bulgaria’s history can be traced through its changing capital cities, from Pliska to Veliki Preslav, Veliko Tarnovo to Sofia. Pliska, the first Bulgarian capital from 681 to 893 CE, retains traces of its powerful past in the ruins of the Palace and the well-preserved Great Basilica that form part of the Historical Museum. Veliki Preslav, the second capital of the First Bulgarian Empire under Simeon the Great in the 10th century, tells of a powerful and wealthy period through its ruins of palaces, advanced sewage system, and ornate churches. The medieval capital of Veliko Tarnovo is next in line as the capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire. Straddling three hillsides, this picturesque setting reveals the palaces of the Bulgarian emperors, cathedrals and churches that tell of a complex political history.

While the present day capital, Sofia, is a relatively recent addition to the long list of capital cities, it too can trace its history back thousands of years. As you explore the St. George Rotunda, the 13th-century Boyana Church, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, and the Royal Palace and National Theatre, you’ll chart a path through the complex history of a city that was the birthplace of Roman emperors, was named ‘My Rome’ by Emperor Constantine the Great, was destroyed by the Huns in 447 CE, and fell to both the Byzantine Empire in 1018 and the Ottoman Empire in 1385. A guided tour of Sofia’s old town offers up archaeological riches in the golden mask of the Thracian King Teres and the bronze head of the Thracian King Sitalces at the Archaeological Museum, and mesmerising medieval frescoes in the Boyana Church.

Get a taste for Bulgaria’s history and culture through its food and wine

Bulgaria’s historical reverberations have given rise to a rich cultural heritage which makes it one of the most fascinating countries in Europe. While the art and architecture offer a high-brow approach to this culture, its food and wine are an easily accessible and highly enjoyable way to appreciate millennia of history.

Winemaking in Bulgaria began as far back as the Thracians but we have waves of immigration, conquests and empires from the Macedonians, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottoman Turks to thank for the perfected craft that has transformed it into the drink it is today. While you’ll have no end of opportunities to sample Bulgarian wine as you travel around the country, there’s nothing like a visit to a vineyard to shine a light on the modern practices of an industry with ancient roots.

With so many influences from across the region and beyond, you may recognise some of the dishes you come across on a journey through Bulgaria, including moussaka, kebapche, and banitsa, but they’ll have been given a distinctly local twist. As well as feasting on traditional dishes, make time to pick up some tips and delve deeper into the history of food with a cooking class in Dolno Draglishte. This historic village can trace its history back to 1576, so its food has had 500 years to take on layers of culinary influences that have left their mark on recipes handed down through the generations.

If you’re visiting Veliko Tarnovo, take a trip to Arbanassi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where vibrantly ornate churches and grand architecture give a hint of its past incarnation as the home of kings and merchants. A cooking lesson here is an introduction to local specialities such as kavarma stew and local baklava with yoghurt, nuts and honey.

Experience Bulgaria’s living history with festivals and cultural celebrations

It should come as no surprise that a country with such cultural depth and a proud sense of identity should also boast a calendar jam-packed with festivals and celebrations. For those who prefer their historic encounters in the form of living history, these occasions are a fascinating insight into Bulgarian traditions. The fragrant Valley of Roses should be high on the list, particularly in May and June when the blossoming of the roses is celebrated. Combine this with a visit to a family-run rose oil distillery to discover the famous Bulgarian rose oil used in many well-known perfumes.

Historic plays are often performed with a backdrop of significant monuments and our local experts can use their insider knowledge to build these into your trip. Smaller local festivals abound and can be a chance to stumble across a new favourite band or author. The International Folklore Festival, held in July in Veliko Tarnov, is a colourful riot of music and dance, with traditional costumes and food that celebrates the dynamic beauty of Bulgaria’s culture.

Make it happen

Has our Bulgaria heritage guide inspired you to delve deeper into its history and culture? Contact our local experts today. Whether you’d like to wander through museums and ancient monuments or experience the culture one meal at a time, they can plan a trip that’s perfectly tailored to you.