If you could build the castle of your dreams, what would it look like? The one that you imagined as a child when you read books. Or seen in a feature film.
The answer to this question can be found in Bulgaria, in the village of Ravadinovo. The castle “In love with the wind” does not claim to be historical. It was built a little over 20 years ago, but this place will definitely take you to a "fairy tale".
Story
Georgi Tumpalov - the founder of the castle, used to work as a policeman, but in 1997 he decided to change his life. Having studied the history of medieval knights for a long time, he got the idea to create his own version of the ancient fortress. Therefore, instead of a country house, he began the construction of a fairy-tale castle, the project of which was invented by himself.
The castle stands on the hills, where the wind constantly blows. It is especially interesting that the hotter the weather, the cooler the air flow.
Georgi has repeatedly said that it reminds him of travel and adventure. Therefore, such a touching name arose - “In love with the wind”.
The main material from which the estate was built was marble limestone. About 20,000 tons of this material were brought from Turkey. The stone contains particles of diamond, so it changes color depending on the lighting. In the morning, the castle walls shimmer with pink and reddish color. During the day they become snow-white, and gleam under bright lighting.
What can you see in the castle?
Georgi himself and his relatives worked on the project of the castle, about 20 people in total. Due to the fact that no construction company was involved in the project, work is still going on. But tourists can freely visit some rooms and walk around the territory.
In total, the castle has several interesting locations:
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1. Zoo corner
An exotic mini-park where peacocks and pheasants live. Also on the territory of the castle there is an equestrian base with horses for riding.
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2. Botanical garden
You can see thousands of species of exotic flowers and trees. In the middle of the garden there are several deep lakes with freshwater fish and waterfowl. Beautiful sculptures in antique style are hidden in every corner.
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3. Tents
Arbors for every taste. For example, a large hall under a glass dome in which you want to arrange a ball. Or a stone tent with arches and elegant painting.
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4. Wine cellar
It is located at a depth of 12 meters. There is a long wooden table in the middle of it, and around the perimeter there are statues of knights. If desired, some armor can be tried on.
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5. Art gallery
Long hall with paintings, bronze figurines and jugs. In the middle on the floor is a plan of the castle and surrounding areas.
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6. Audience
Spacious and very bright hall, reminiscent of a fabulous hunting lodge. Bright blue walls, animal figures and lots of paintings.
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7. Chapel
A small and seemingly nondescript turret with a cross on the dome. Inside, it shines and shimmers with azure color, and the windows are airy stained-glass windows.
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8. Builder's quarters
A hall that can dazzle with its radiance. The combination of blue walls and gold, oriental color of sofas and armchairs. The floor is made of onyx (semi-precious stone).
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9. Terrarium
A good opportunity to increase adrenaline without risking yourself. Here you can see the most venomous snakes from around the world.
It is better to come here not in beach clothes, but to prepare a little for the tour in order to take atmospheric photos. In the morning there are fewer tourists and you can safely take a walk in the park. By the way, thanks to the well-groomed paths in the garden, you can even walk in heels.
Entrance ticket prices
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Ticket price
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25 BGN
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What does it include?
Park, zoo, wine cellar, chapel, children's play area, summer cinema, parking.
What are the discounts?
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Children under 7
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is free
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students
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20 BGN
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Disabled
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10 BGN
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pensioners
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15 BGN
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When ordering tickets through the website using the promotional code ONLINE
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ten%
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To receive a discount for a student, disabled person, pensioner, you must present the appropriate document.
Is it possible to have a photo session?
Yes, unlimited shooting in all locations costs 500 BGN. At the same time, you need to buy an entrance ticket, the price of which is 14 BGN per person for graduates, 10 BGN for children 7-12 years old, 15 BGN for a wedding photo shoot.
For a group of more than 15 people, one ticket and entry for a photographer are free.
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Drone fee
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150 BGN
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What are the entrance fees to certain areas within the castle grounds?
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Builder's quarters
Entrance ticket for visitors over 18 years old - 10 BGN, for visitors 7-18 years old ticket price - 5 BGN.
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Terrarium
For persons over 18 years old - 7 BGN, from 7 to 18 years old - 3 BGN.
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Art gallery
Museum of Porcelain and Ancient Geographical Maps with a separate ticket. Its cost for adults is 10 BGN, for children - 5 BGN.
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Quests “Treasure Seekers” and “Escape”
The cost is 10 BGN. They run from 9:00 to 16:00. You need to order 3 days in advance by calling 0893050680.
From 8:00 to 21:00 without days off.
In winter, the schedule may be reduced due to bad weather.
How to get there?
From Sozopol
You can take the Sozopol-Burgas bus of the Burgas Bus carrier, which stops just in the center of Ravadinovo. The cost of the trip is from 1 euro, and the duration is 8 minutes.
The fare for a taxi is from 3 euros. Travel time is only 8 minutes.
From Sozopol you can walk (distance 5 km) in about 1 hour.
From Burgas
By bus, the trip takes about 30 minutes, the cost is from 1 euro.
A taxi will arrive a little faster, the cost of the trip is from 17 euros.
