One day trip to Veliko Tarnovo, Arbanassi and Shipka Memorial Church from Plovdiv

Highlights

• Outstanding Bulgarian Orthodox temple Shipka Memorial Church
• One of Bulgaria’s most remarkable villages Arbanassi
• Former Bulgarian capital Veliko Tarnovo

All about the trip

First, we will head towards the Shipka Memorial Church which is an outstanding Bulgarian Orthodox temple built between 1885 and 1902 near Shipka town at the foothills of the Balkan Range. The Shipka Monument complex is dedicated to the Russian, Ukrainian and Bulgarian soldiers who died for the liberation of Bulgaria in the Russo – Turkish War in 1877-78.

Next, we will cross the Shipka pass to arrive in Arbanassi, one of Bulgaria’s most remarkable villages. It is known for the rich history and a large number of historical monuments, such as 17th and 18th century churches and examples of Bulgarian National Revival architecture. We will discover the oldest church in the village - Nativity of Christ (1637 – 1649), dug into the ground without a belfry and with the hidden cupola. This impressive monument, fully painted from the inside is a genuine art gallery of murals with over 3 500 stunningly realistic figures and Biblical scenes, painted by unknown artists throughout the ages. Our next stop is the Konstantsalieva house museum originally built in the 17th century and beautifully restored in National Revival style. It reflects not only the wealth of the owners but also the attention to detail and the quality craftsmanship of that time.

From Arbanassi we will proceed to one of the most amazing landmarks of Bulgaria, its former capital Veliko Tarnovo with a population of some 71 000. The charming town is amphitheatrically situated at 210 m above the sea level on the Yantra River. The historical capital of the Second Bulgarian Kingdom attracts many tourists with its unique architecture and beautiful landscapes. The first site we explore in town is the imposing Tsarevets Fortress which is a medieval stronghold located on a hill with the same name. Tsarevets served as Bulgarian Empire’s primary fortress and strongest bulwark from 1185 to 1393. We will then go for a walk along the lovely Veliko Tarnovo main street, the picturesque Gourko Street and the authentic Samovodska Charshiya Street in the Old Town where we see some crafts exhibits, pieces of art and traditional souvenirs.

What is included in the price

• English speaking tour guide
• Transfers from and to your hotel in Plovdiv

What is not included in the price

• Tsarevets Fortress entrance fee (3 €)
• Church of the Nativity of Christ entrance fee (3 €)
• Konstantsalieva house entrance fee (3 €)
• Lunch
• Snacks and drinks

Instructions

Please show up at the meeting point 15 minutes before the scheduled time.

This activity is organised by Plovdiv Trips LTD, Makariopolski Str. 13, Plovdiv, 4000, Bulgaria, +359 889 424 576, info@plovdivtrips.com.