Fortress Tsarevets

Tsarevets Fortress towers over the town of Veliko Tarnovo, on the northern side of Bulgaria. Today it is a well-restored complex that tells its visitors an ancient story, and in the Middle Ages the fortress walls protected civilians and performed an important defensive role for the whole city.

The history of Tsarevets Fortress

Even before the time of the Bulgarian Empire, this area was used by the ancient Romans, in the 5th century they were the first to build a fortress here in order to take advantage of the high location of the hill. In the 7th century, the fortification was destroyed by ancient Slavic tribes.

Since 1186, the capital of the Bulgarian state, Veliko Tarnovo, has been located here. Historical sources describe the city as "second only to Constantinople," and the spiritual and cultural life here was very high. Kings were crowned in the city and the residence of the archbishop and patriarch was located. Successful trade was conducted not only with the nearest neighbors, but also with other European countries, crafts were actively developing.

In 1393, after the siege by the Ottoman troops, the city was almost completely burned down, all local cultural monuments were destroyed, the Tsarevets fortress itself turned into ruins and remained in this state until our time.

Now some of the fortifications have been restored, and guided tours are taking place on the territory. Tsarevets Fortress is very popular with families with children.

Sights of Tsarevets Fortress

The Patriarchal Church of the Ascension of the Lord has been completely restored, but now functions as a museum. Its walls are decorated with paintings by the artist Teofan Sokerov, the images describe the history of the formation and fall of the second Bulgarian kingdom. The frescoes depict scenes in which red and black colors predominate. The building itself is a monument of church architecture.

The lion at the entrance to the fortress meets travelers at the swing bridge that led to the Tsarevets fortress. Today, the bridge is stationary, but the lion, as a symbol of Bulgaria, sits at the entrance holding in front of him the coat of arms with the image of the fortress.

The Baldwin Tower is located on the north side of the Tsarevets fortress on a sheer cliff. The tower is named after the Latin Emperor Baldwin of Flanders. According to legend, the emperor was captured after losing a battle, for which he was captured and imprisoned in a tower by Tsar John the Good. The tsar's wife became imbued with feelings for the prisoner and offered to escape with her. Baldwin refused her and the offended woman slandered him. The emperor was executed, but the tsarina was also exposed and executed after.

There is also a legend about an ancient vault in which treasures are hidden, many treasure hunters have been to find them, but so far without success.

In the evening, the territory of the Tsarevets fortress is illuminated with colorful lights and a whole show is played out with the help of sounds and light, completely free of charge for everyone.