Arbanasi

Arbanasi is a small village located in the Velikotyrnovo region of Bulgaria. A small village with a population of about 350 people is sometimes called a city as a sign of respect for its history. Residents of the country and tourists are very interested in the ancient buildings that have been settled here since the 13th century.

History

Since the 15th century, the Turkish authorities have been actively resettling Albanians in the territory of the current village of Arbanasi, who worried them with frequent unrest. Albanians were then called "Arbanasi", hence the name of the settlement.

The village was donated by Sultan Suleiman to his son-in-law Rustem Pasha in the 16th century, since then it has not been subject to local taxes and had the right to duty-free trade. This state of affairs has had a positive impact on the well-being of local residents. They practiced a variety of crafts and achieved great success in this. And they traded, not only within the country, but also abroad.

Having a good income, the residents of Arbanasi built themselves spacious, very durable and reliable dwellings that have survived to this day.

Sights of the village

More than 80 houses have been preserved in their original form, some of them are recognized as monuments of national culture of regional significance.

The Constantsaliev House is a great opportunity to get acquainted with the way of life of the residents of Arbanasi. The house was built in the 17th century, from the street it looks more like a small fortress, but the territory is very cozy, there is a garden, a well, a place to relax and farm. The dwelling itself is very solid, thick stone walls protected its inhabitants from possible robbers or robbers. Despite the favorable climate, the house has a large stove that can fully heat the apartment. Traditionally for those times, the living quarters were located on the second floor, and on the ground floor they kept cattle and stored tools. By the atmosphere, you can easily guess the purpose of the premises, there is a kitchen and a room for receiving guests, a bedroom and even a children's room, and there is a restroom.

Monastery of the Most Holy Theotokos

There is an Orthodox women's monastery on the outskirts of Arbanasi. The monastery is active, and a blooming garden and vineyard adorn its courtyard. The main temple, built in the 17th century and consecrated in honor of the Virgin. One of the main shrines is the icon of the Three Martyrs. Its acquisition is connected with a legend. A local shepherd, driving his flock, heard a voice from the ground, began digging and found an amazing icon of the Mother of God with three arms, in which one held a baby. The icon was taken to the monastery, it is revered as a miraculous icon, helps believers in worldly affairs, heals from diseases.

Church of the Nativity

The church was built in the 16th century, and today it is two-thirds hidden underground. The main attractions here are the ancient frescoes on the walls, made by unknown craftsmen.

Today, the village of Arbanasi is an original resort with comfortable hotels, restaurants and coffee for every taste. Tourists from all over the world can not only touch the history of Bulgaria, but also take a break from the hustle and bustle of big cities.