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| Must see places in Eastern Europe |
Being a territory with enviably rich historical background, Bulgaria brags considerable cultural heritage. The country is an intersection point of strong traditions, customs maintained for generations, distinguished authenticity, perching right on the border between the European and the Oriental. Many are the museums within the country proudly exhibiting the priceless relics of the Thracians who used to inhabit these lands during prehistoric times. This ancient civilization left many eloquent evidences about the artistic achievements and architectural masterpieces of its craftsmen.
Srebarna Nature Reserve, Rock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo, Thracian Tomb of Sveshtаri, Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak, Rila Monastery, Madara Rider, Boyana Church, Ancient city of Nessebar, and Pirin National Park – these astonishing sites date back to different historical periods, demonstrating the grandeur of respective civilization or the subduing power of nature. UNESCO acknowledged the uniqueness of the 9 aforementioned Bulgarian sites in the World Heritage Sites.
Being a stronghold for the Bulgarian authenticity during the turbulent times under Ottoman yoke, the churches of the country represent the everlasting hope of the people for liberation- Orthodox monasteries with still preserved iconography will bewilder every visitor; the most curious monasteries were built high in the mountains, hardly reachable and protected by the nature peculiarities. Veliko Tarnovo is one of the most attractive tourist destinations in the country- it used to serve as medieval capital and emblem for the times of power and majesty. Some of Bulgaria's best vacation home rentals are located exactly in that magnificent area.
As for Plovdiv, the country's second largest city, with its 6000 years of history, it is ranked as one of the world's oldest cities and the most ancient one in Europe. Plovdiv used to be a Thracian city as well as part of the mighty Byzantine, Roman and Ottoman empires. Still, in the city there are plenty of historical sites dating back from the times of all these empires – aqueducts, odeons, ancient theaters and stadiums, mosques and so on.
The natural landmarks are breath-taking: picturesque mountains, old forests, pristine lakes, winding rivers and beautiful gorges, valleys looking soft as plush, golden- sanded beaches and the warm water of the Black Sea- you would gladly explore the gorgeous features of the land. Warm and hospitable local people would take an excellent care for you in all the typical beach house rentals or cozy cabin rentals near the beach.
Winter season is a bless for the skiers- you may try your skills at resorts like: Bansko, Borovets, Pamporovo; summer resorts like Golden Sands, Albena, Sunny Beach, Nessebar, Sozopol will take good care of you- you will be tempted to indulge in spa procedures, recreation and full relaxation.
The National park of Pirin is sprawling across 26 480 hectares of land. More than the half of the park's territory is covered with forests; one of the most intriguing representatives of which is the oldest tree in Bulgaria- the 1200 year- old white fir. Endangered animal and plant species find their home in the protected area. About 70 pristine lakes from the Ice Age will make you freeze, stunned by majestic view they reveal.
And for those that wish to be best captivated by Bulgaria's beauty, a fine chance to do so is to embark on a journey across the country in order to visit the "100 Tourist Sites of Bulgaria". It is a Bulgarian national movement/program which includes the most significant historic, natural and cultural landmarks. Foaming waterfalls, enigmatic caves and alluring meadows will make you fall in love with the nature of this small but captivating European country.
See. Things to do on Holiday in Bulgaria besides partying
Author Bio: Noel Palacios shares his personal travel experience about Bulgaria
