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Between Heaven and Earth: the Rock Churches of the Ivanovo
Once, the rock churches of Ivanovo drew hermits, kings and pilgrims. Now, it’s the tourists’ turn. At the beginning of the 13th Century, a monk named Joachim was so charmed by the picturesque cliffs near the Rusenski Lom River that he decided to settle there with his three disciples. The beauties of the place and its proximity to the diocesan centre of Cherven attracted votaries’ attentions to the church that Joachim carved out of the rock. The hermit quickly became popular and soon began welcoming eminent visitors. One was King Ivan Asen II, who donated a considerable amount of gold to the church complex. Four centuries earlier Ivan Rilski, Bulgaria’s…
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Nesebar: Life on the old Island
Because of the thousands of summer tourists, it’s hard to look around Nesebar. But a stroll along its meandering streets and among its half-ruined churches is always worthwhile. In the 6th Century BC, the Greek city-states of Megara and Miletus contended to control of the Black Sea coast of Thrace, which supplied the ancient world with the timber, hides, copper, slaves, and salt its economy needed. Miletus was in the superior position. It managed to establish a colony first, Apollonia (present-day Sozopol), on the southern coast of the Bay of Burgas and to gain control over Anchialo (present-day Pomorie). It was only a century later that Megara found a suitable…
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Bulgaria for Beginners: all you need to know
As an up-and-coming destination for tourist visitors and business travelers alike, Bulgaria has become increasingly cosmopolitan over the past 15 years. At least cities have, to varying degrees. Meanwhile, out in the countryside, there are plenty of places where time seems to have stood still for centuries, with villagers in traditional garb riding along donkey-carts – until you see them talking into their mobile phones. Once you have made your first Bulgarian friend, though, you will definitely not have made your last. Bulgarians are very social and love any occasions to gather for conversation, eating, drinking, dancing, or cultural or sporting events. As regards practical matters, Bulgaria is forging ahead…
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Act as local: some tips and tricks that will make your live (and parties) in Bulgaria easier
Sofia’s and Black Sea’s accommodation scene has been transformed by a rash of hotel building in recent years, and there is now a big choice in all categories. And this is happening only because this Balkan country is attracting more and more attention from international tourist. Rather cheap prices, comparing with Western Europe, mild climate, rich history and even richer cuisine makes Bulgaria a perfect holiday destination. But before going there, you have to know few things, without which you will not survive. Or… your survival will be a lot more difficult. The first thing that any visitor to Bulgaria needs to know is that “yes” is indicated by a…
