Tsarevets is a medieval fortress that served as the foundation of the capital of Veliko Tarnovo during the establishment of the Second Bulgarian Empire. Remarkably, this stronghold remained unconquered for several centuries, thanks to the unique terrain of the Yantra River valley. The river's sharp twists form high hills with rocky cliffs, on two of which the fortress was built. The stunning views of the rocky cliffs, river valley, and the architectural center of Veliko Tarnovo attract countless tourists to Tsarevets every year.
Different nations chose this site for its extreme defensibility and strategic importance, as it lay at the crossroads of major roads and river crossings. The first fortifications were built by the Romans, and by the 5th century, the Byzantines had settled here. The Bulgarians became the last "masters" of the valley when they established the Second Bulgarian Empire. The secret to the Bulgarians' fortified defenses lies in the high walls (over 10 meters tall and 2 to 4 meters thick), which encircled the entire hill (with a total length of over 2 kilometers). The Tsarevets hill is surrounded by the river on three sides, so the builders didn’t even need to dig a moat. The only easy access to the fortress was via a drawbridge.
Tsarevets Fortress was established in 1185 following a rebellion led by brothers Asen and Peter against the Byzantine Empire. Just one year later, the fortress and its nearby settlement became the capital of the newly formed state. By the end of the 12th century, the city had become one of the most fortified centers, and contemporaries called Veliko Tarnovo the second most glorious city after Constantinople and the third after Rome, also referring to it as the "Tsar of cities, saved by God."
What's Special About This Monument. During its existence, the palace complex saw the reign of great Bulgarian monarchs such as Asen I, Tsar Kaloyan, Ivan Shishman, and many other notable nobles. Thanks to the carefully thought-out infrastructure, visitors can explore the fortress towers, the foundations of the throne hall, the restored building of the Bulgarian Patriarchate Palace, as well as many ancient structures and mechanical signaling systems (like bells used to start the evening show for visitors).
Legends of the FortressSeveral legends about Tsarevets have been preserved, some of which describe historical events of that era, while others remain unsolved mysteries.
Museum of Todor KableshkovOne legend tells of Tsar Kaloyan's conflict with his long-time friend, Byzantine Emperor Baldwin. After the Battle of Adrianople, the Bulgarian leader captured Baldwin and imprisoned him in a tower by the fortress wall. According to legend, the emperor was executed after rejecting the affections of Kaloyan's wife, who, in revenge, slandered him. This is the story behind one of the towers in Tsarevets. Visitors can personally explore the museum complex's exhibits and learn many stories, like the legend of Baldwin.
Roman DungeonAnother legend claims that there are hidden tunnels under Tsarevets, created by the Romans to hide from barbarian invasions. They supposedly built a subterranean storage area with a secret lake and traps. It's believed that this dungeon housed treasures left behind by the Romans and Byzantines. However, this remains unconfirmed by historical records or excavations.
Up-to-date recommendations from the guideFor your visit, wear comfortable shoes, as the paths and steep climbs around Tsarevets are paved with cobblestones.
If you’re visiting during the summer, avoid carrying heavy bags or backpacks, and plan your trip for the morning. This way, you can see more without getting tired from the summer heat.
Bring plenty of water or other drinks. You might also want to pack a small mat and a light snack. There are many grassy areas where you can sit, rest, and enjoy the views.
Be cautious while exploring the fortress and keep an eye on children, as there are steep slopes, walls, cliffs, and ruins where safety rules must be followed.
The entrance to this complex is guarded by two massive watchtowers, and the territory of the tsar’s residence was fully protected by walls. Unfortunately, many of the fortress's structures are not in their original form, so it’s impossible to fully appreciate the beauty of the palace, which once spanned more than 2,850 square meters. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of the residence and the throne hall, as well as more than 400 residential homes within the fortress.
Patriarchate
The only fully restored building in the palace complex is the Church of the Ascension, covering 2,413 square meters. During the Bulgarian monarchy, this church governed all the churches in the country. Today, it serves as a historical monument, and no religious services are held here. Visitors can take guided tours of the church, which is adorned with mosaics, frescoes, and murals depicting the history of the Bulgarian people.
Evening Surprise
Nearly every evening, the fortress hosts the "Sound and Light" show for guests of Veliko Tarnovo. If you hear the bells ringing at dusk, it means the evening show is about to begin. For 30 minutes, the fortress's walls and buildings are illuminated by colorful spotlights, followed by a laser display. The spectacle is visible from nearly any point in the city, and best of all, it's free to watch. The best views are from Ivan Asen II Square.
For Tourists| Entrance Fee | |
| April - October | 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM |
| November - March | 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM |
Entrance fee: €3 (265 RUB), with an option to purchase a combined ticket for other historical sites in Veliko Tarnovo for €8 (710 RUB).
How to Get ThereTsarevets Fortress is located on the outskirts of Veliko Tarnovo, close to bus and train stations, and is even easier to reach by car. However, parking near the historical monument can be difficult to find.
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By Bus
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From Sofia - Veliko Tarnovo
Ticket price: €7-11 (620-975 RUB)
Travel time: 3 hours 10 minutes
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From Burgas West - Veliko Tarnovo
Ticket price: €10-15 (890-1335 RUB)
Travel time: 4 hours
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From Varna - Veliko Tarnovo
Ticket price: €7-11 (620-975 RUB)
Travel time: 6 hours
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By Train
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Sofia – Veliko Tarnovo (with transfer)
Route: Sofia - Gorna Oryahovitsa
Ticket price: €6-10 (535-890 RUB)
Gorna Oryahovitsa - Veliko Tarnovo
Ticket price: €1 (90 RUB)
Total travel time: 4 hours 10 minutes
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Burgas – Veliko Tarnovo. (with transfer)
Route: Burgas - Dabovo
Ticket price: 4-7 EUR (535-620 RUB)
Dabovo - Veliko Tarnov
Ticket price: 1-3 EUR (90-265 RUB)
Total travel time: 4 hours 40 minutes.
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Burgas – Veliko Tarnovo. (with transfer)
Route: Varna - Gorna Oryahovitsa
Ticket price: 6-9 EUR (535-800 RUB)
Gorna Oryahovitsa - Veliko Tarnov
Ticket price: 1 EUR (90 RUB)
Total travel time: 3 hours 50 minutes.
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By Car
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Sofia – Veliko Tarnovo
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Burgas – Veliko Tarnovo
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Varna – Veliko Tarnovo
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