Tsarevets Fortress

Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria

Tsarevets is a medieval stronghold located on a hill with the same name in Veliko Tarnovo in northern Bulgaria. It served as the Second Bulgarian Empire's primary fortress and strongest bulwark between 1185 and 1393, housing the royal and the patriarchal palaces, and it is also a popular tourist attraction.

The hill has evidence of human presence from the 2nd millennium BC and was settled in the 4th century. After the Bulgarian Rebellion, it became the empire's key fortress, comparable to Rome and Constantinople. In 1393, it fell to Ottoman forces, marking the Bulgarian Empire's demise.

The fortress has three entrances, with a central complex featuring a throne hall, castle church, and king's chamber. Restoration started in 1930 and was completed in 1981. The stronghold, surrounded by thick walls and three gates, housed kings Petar, Asen, Kaloyan, and Ivan Asen II. The palace complex included a fortified wall, towers, and entrances. The patriarchate, at the hill's top, has the Cathedral of the Ascension of the Lord.

Baldwin's Tower, a modern reconstruction in the southeastern part, commemorates Latin Emperor Baldwin I's death. During the Middle Ages, the hill had residential buildings, workshops, churches, and monasteries. Archaeologists found 400 buildings, 22 churches, and 4 monasteries. Execution Rock, where traitors were pushed into the Yantra River, is also located here; Patriarch Joachim was executed in 1300.

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Details

Founded: 12th century
Category: Castles and fortifications in Bulgaria

More Information

en.wikipedia.org

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4.7/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Marios K (4 months ago)
Don't miss out on this hidden gem. needs around 1 and a half hour to get around. the cathedral is a must-see with amazing wall paintings. also visit the vigilance tower to get a real-life feeling of castle warfare. Unfortunately, the elevator to the top of the bells was out of order.
Maria George (7 months ago)
Beautiful! Stunning scenery surrounding the Fortress. So much history within. Can be quite a hike but the view is definitely worth it. Shame we didn't stay for the light show in the evening. Even has toilets dotted around which is very handy.
tskumar (9 months ago)
It's a must visit place in Veliko Tarnovo. There is an entrance fee but for a family it is around 8 euros, as I remember. It has great views of the city and surrounded mountains. At the top, there is a church and it's a bit steep to walk. Keep enough water on a sunny day. A lot of shops near the entrance to buy souvenirs.
der Giso (9 months ago)
If you wish to get some more insights I. The Bulgarien history, the fortress is what you want to visit. The distributed sound system offers useful details, the whole area has shady spots to enjoy and relax. Don't miss the impressive Church at the top!
Ovidiu Voicu (9 months ago)
It's worth the walk, the few hours, and the non-expensive ticket price to visit and explore the vestiges of the medieval fortress. As visitor, you will be mostly on your own, because there are no guides and no information in English or other international language. The museum on top is intriguingly painted (but kind of kitchy?). The view from above if amazing. During the summer days, use sun protection and hat. Take some water with you, or some leva if you want to buy it from the vending machines.
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