EXHIBITIONS / Изложения September - December 2017 HUNTING, FIS HING, Hunting and Sport Weapons, Fishing Accessories, Sport SPORT Ловни и с портни оръжия, риболовни 14 - 17.09. принадлежности, спорт AREN A OF BE AUTY Aesthetics, Cosmetics, SPA, Health, Hair, Nail, Mackeup 29.09 - 01.10. Форум за здраве, красота и естетика COPI’S Communication Art, Print, Image, Sign Рекламни и печатни комуникации 02 - 04.10. SOFIA MOTOR S HOW Автомобилен салон София 13 - 22.10. SIHRE Hotel and Restaurant Equipment Хотелско и ресторантско оборудване 08 - 11.11. MEATMANIA Meat Industry Месна промишленост 08 - 11.11. THE WORLD OF MILK Dairy Industry Млекопреработвателна промишленост 08 - 11.11. BULPEK Bakery and Confectionery Хлебопроизводство и сладкарство 08 - 11.11. SALON DU VIN Wines and Spirits Вина и спиртни напитки 08 - 11.11. INTER FOOD & DRINK Food Industry Хранително-вкусова промишленост 08 - 11.11. BEGE EXPO Balkan Entertainment and Gaming Expo Игрална и развлекателна индустрия 22 - 23.11. BE BEMANIA Baby and Kids Products Всичко за бъдещите и настоящи родители 24 - 26.11. IWC ANNUAL CHARITY 23 rd Christmas Charity Bazaar 03.12. BAZAAR 23-и Коледен благотворителен базар January - June 2018 HELLO WINTER STORY Health and Sport FESTI VAL Здраве и спорт 20 - 21.01. HOLIDAY & SPA EX PO International Tourist Fair Международна туристическа борса 14 - 16.02. LUXURY WEDDINGS Wedding and Events Industry EX PO Сватбена и събитийна индустрия 23 - 25.02. BULG ARI A BUILDING Building Materials and Machines WEEK Строителни материали и машини 07 - 10.03. SECURITY EX PO Safety&Security Цялостни решения за сигурност и 07 - 10.03. безопасност GRAND CHOCOLATE Chocolate and Chocolate Products FESTI VAL Шоколад и шоколадови продукти 10 - 11.03. BE BEMANIA – Baby and Kids Products SHOPPING Всичко за бъдещите и настоящи родители 16 - 18.03. VOLKSW AGEN CLU B Event for the Fans of the Brand FEST Събитие за феновете на марката 17 - 18.03. WATER SOFIA Water and Water Management Води и воден мениджмънт 27 - 29.03. MACHT ECH & Machinery, Industrial Equipment and Innovative INNOTECH Technologies Индустриални машини, оборудване 27- 30.03. и иновационни технологии TECHNOMEBEL Woodworking and Furniture Industry Дървообработваща и мебелна промишленост 24 - 28.04. WORLD OF Furniture, Interior textile and home accessories FURNITURE Обзавеждане, интериорен текстил 24 - 28.04. и аксесоари за дома BUL MEDICA / Medical and Dental Industry BULDENT AL Медицина 16 - 18.05. Sofia City ® Info Guide 4 Overview Publisher: AMATI BULGARIA Ltd. Design: AMATI BULGARIA Ltd. 10 Accommodation On the Cover: ПхотPhoto by Assen Velikov Print: Janet 45 Ltd. 16 Restaurants For Advertising, Bulk Orders and Subscriptions: 20 NIGHT LIFE (before 10th of the preceding month, please!) Cell: 0896 717 225 E-mail: [email protected] 24 Culture facebook.com/cityinfoguides.bulgaria All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be repro- duced in any form or by any means without prior permission. 28 useful Numbers Monthly circulation: 20 000

Your complimentary copy of the Sofia City®Info Guide is available from hotel rooms, hotel receptions and other public areas at the following top-class Hotels & Services Apartments:

HOTELS êêê OTHERS êêêêê Amfora Hotel Airport Sofia - Terminals 1, 2 Arena di Serdika Arte Hotel Airline Companies Balkan Hotel Sofia Hotel Villa Boyana Business Centres Hilton Hotel Ibis Hotel Rent-a-Car Companies Holiday Inn Sofia Hotel Montecito Hotel Central Bus Station Radisson BLU Meg-Lozenetz Hotel Cultural Institutes Park Hotel Moskva êêêê Casinos Sofia Place Hotel Inter Expo Center BW Hotel Expo Slavyanska Beseda Information Center Sofia BW City Hotel Plus (Largo, Chitalnyata) BW Premier Sofia Galleries Downtown Hotel êê Real Estate Agencies Hill Hotel The House Hotel Top Restaurants & Bars Maria Luisa Hotel Travel Agencies Metropolitan Hotel ê Novotel Sofia Hotel easyHotel Ramada Hotel Madrid Hotel COMMERCIAL AND ECONOMIC SECTION OF THE EMBASSY OF THE REPUBLIC OF BULGARIA. APARTMENT RENTALS & HOSTELS Apartment House EON Block 531 Vitosha Apartments SUBSCRIPTION Marinella Apartments DIPLOMATIC MISSIONS: Austria, Germany, Canada, Netherlands, USA Bulgaria in Brief 3 4 SOFIA’S TOURIST ATTRACTION The Western Gate of Serdica Archaeological Park

The Western Gate of Serdica Archaeological At this stage, part of the western fortress wall, Park is located between George Washington the north tower of the gate, parts of the main Street, Todor Alexandrov Blvd., Pirotska Street ancient street (decumanus), the northwest and the Catholic Cathedral of St. Joseph. One angular triangular tower; an antique canal; of the newest tourist attractions in Sofia is buildings inside the fortified city; fragments of opened for visitors every day (9:00-17:00), a mosaic of an impressive building in the north- free of charge. This became possible after the eastern part, etc. have been discovered, studied realization of a large-scale project regarding and exposed. the conservation, restoration, exposure and The artifacts that were discovered during the ar- development of the site. chaeological excavations include: bronze and sil- The site is an affiliate of Sofia History Museum. ver coins, ceramics of various shapes and sizes The Western Gate of Serdica is part of the and with varied decorations, clay lamps, weights historical and archaeological reserve Ancient for looms, fragments of glassware, rings, fibu- Serdica - Medieval Sredets. It is an immovable lae and other parts of garments made of various cultural heritage of national significance. A team metals and alloys, hair pins, bone combs, dice, from Sofia History Museum led by Magdalena sewing needles, etc. Today the artifacts are not Stancheva started to research the site in 1974. exposed due to ongoing exploration. overview 5 SOFIA’S Археологически парк TOURIST ATTRACTION “Западна порта на Сердика” Археологическият парк “Западна порта и експонирани: част от западната на Сердика” се намира между ул. “Георг крепостна стена; северната кула от Вашингтон”, ул. “Княз Борис I”, ул. портата; части от главна антична “Пиротска” и бул. “Тодор Александров”. улица (декуманус); северозападна ъглова Една от новите атракции на София може триъгълна кула; античен канал; постройки да бъде посетена безплатно всеки ден във вътрешността на укрепения град; от 9:00 до 17:00 ч. Това стана възможно фрагменти от мозайка на внушителна по след реализацията на мащабен проект за размери сграда в североизточната част. консервация, реставрация, експониранe и Артефактите, откривани по време на благоустрояване. археологическите проучвания, са: бронзови Обектът е филиал на Регионален и сребърни монети, керамични съдове с исторически музей – София. различна форма, украса и големина, глинени Западната порта на Сердика спада към лампи, тежести за станове, фрагменти историко-археологическия резерват от стъклени съдове, пръстени, фибули и “Антична Сердика – Средновековен други елементи на костюма от различни Средец”. Тя е недвижима културна ценност метали и сплави, игли за коса, костени от национално значение. Проучването гребени, зарчета, игли за шиене и други. й започва през 1974 г. от екип на Музея Намерените артефакти все още не са за история на София с ръководител изложени публично, тъй като се проучват Магдалина Станчева. допълнително. На този етап са разкрити, проучени 6 overview

bodies of various agencies, political parties and SOFIA CITY REGION public organizations. Sofia accommodates also The capital city of Bulgaria is situated in the the cultural institutions in Bulgaria. geographic center of Southeastern Europe thus It has been given several names in the course of serving as a natural bridge to the Middle East. history. • Serdika was the name of the central dwelling of the ancient Thracian tribe known as “Serdi”. FACT & FIGURES • The toponym Sredets was indicative of its central location on the Balkan Peninsula. When the city became part of the Bulgarian state at the beginning of the ninth century it acquired this Slavic name and it was soon recognized as one of the most important feudal towns. • Sofia – In nowadays the Bulgarian capital carries the name of St. Sofia (the holy Lady of wisdom), inspired by the name of the church St. Sofia. Sofia Municipality 33, Moskovska Str. (map E3) & 02 937 73 03 www.sofia.bg Population: 1 291 591 Area: 1 310, 8 sq. km The city motto: “Growing without aging” GDP: around 29% of the national GDP Sofia is the biggest and the most dynamic center of the economic life in Bulgaria. Half of the foreign direct investments in Bulgaria are concentrated in the capital. One third of the St. Sofia Church annual tax revenues in the national budget come from Sofia. The region occupies the central part of the Sofia Plain (with average altitude of 550 m) CULTURAL HERITAGE and it is encircled by the Balkan Mountains (in The cultural heritage of Sofia combines traces the north) and the Vitosha Mountain and the from the civilizations of the Neolith and the Lyulin Mountain (in the south). The area has an Thracians, of the ancient Greeks and Romans, abundance of curative mineral springs (Gorna of the Slavs and the proto-Bulgarians and the Banya, Ovcha Kupel, Bankya). The Vitosha Ottomans, These tribes and ethnic groups molded Mountain is an international winter sports the face of the city through victories and defeats destination. From ancient times, Sofia was well- and through consequent cultural influence. The known as a spa centre, thanks to its 18 healing socialist realism and the dynamic changes of mineral and thermal springs. Those springs are modernity are still defining the development of depicted on its cote-of-arms and have been Sofia and are also part of its inextinguishable drawing settlers and conquerors from ancient charm. While walking on the streets of Sofia times to these days. today, people can still see the remnants from older civilizations can still be seen. As early as the Neolithic age the territory of the THROUGH THE CENTURIES present-day million city was inhabited by primitive Founded seven thousand years ago, Sofia is the societies. Archaeologists continue to discover second oldest European city. The city situated in implements and tools from the Stone, Copper and the center of Moesia, Thrace and Macedonia has Bronze ages in the city and in its vicinity. been the official center of the Bulgarian nation for There are more than 70 Eastern Orthodox 127 years, since shortly after the liberation of the churches and monasteries, many of which have country it was declared the capital of Bulgaria. become emblematic for the Bulgarian capital. Sofia has been the capital of Bulgaria since April The city center is an eclectic mix of communist 3, 1879. It is the permanent seat of the National era neoclassical and West European architecture, Assembly (the Parliament), the President, the which enchants with its aristocratic atmosphere Council of Ministers, the central governing the Eastern charm. overview 7 8 overview

полуостров. Градът става част от София област Българската държава в началото на Столицата на България е разположена в девети век, той получава славянско име Югоизточна Европа и поради тази причина и скоро бива признат за един от най- служи за естествен мост между Европа и важните феодални градове. Близкия Изток. • София – В днешно време българската столица носи името на Света София Факти (мъдрост), вдъхновено още и от името на Население: 1 291 591 църквата Света София. Площ: 1 310, 8 кв. км Девиз: „Расте, но не старее“ БВП: около 29% от нациналния БВП Културно наследство Културното наследство на София София е най-големият и най-бързо съчетава останките и следите на развиващия се център в икономическия цивилизации от неолита и траките, на живот на България. Половината от древните гърци и римляни, на славяните директните чуждестранни инвестиции в и прабългарите, на османците – тези България са концетрирани в столицата. племена и етнически групи са оформили Една трета от годишните данъчни лицето на градът пред победи и загуби приходи в националния бюджет идват от и са й дали значително културно София. Регионът заема централната част повлияване. Социалистическият реализъм от Софийско поле (със средна височина и динамичните промени през модерните от 550м), което е заобиколено от Стара времена все още определят развитието на планина (на север) и Люлин планина (на юг). София и са също част от нейния неописуем Районът се радва на изобилие от лечебни чар. Докато се разхождате по улиците на минерални извори (например Горна Баня, града днес, можете да видите исторически Овча Купел, Банкя). Витоша планина е спомени от по-стари цивилизации. дестинация за зимен спорт. От древни Още от ранен неолит територията на времена София е добре известна като днешния милионен град е била обитавана спа център, благодарение на лечебните от примитивни общества. Археолозите свойства на 18-те минерални и термални продължават да откриват инструменти извори. Тези извори са изобразени на герба от Каменната, Медната и Бронзовата на града. епоха в града и в околностите му. Тук има повече от 70 източноправославни църкви и манастири. Много от тях са През вековете емблематични за българската столица. Основана преди 7 000 години, София е Центърът на града е еклектичен микс вторият най-стар европейски град. от комунистическата епоха, примесен Градът, който се намира в центъра на с неокласическа и западноевропейска Мизия, Тракия и Македония, е официален архитектура, който очарова със своята център на българите повече от 127 аристократична атмосфера и източния години. Малко след Освобождението на си чар. страната, той е обявен за столица. Официалната дата е 3-ти април 1879. Градът е постоянното седалище на Народното събрание (парламента), Президентството, Министерски съвет, централи на важни държавни агенции, политически партии и обществени организации. В София се намират много културните институции. Градът е бил известен под различни имена през историята. • Сердика е името, дадено му, от тракийското племе “серди”. • Средец е следващото име на града, което показва неговото централно местоположение на Балканския overview 9

& Garden 10 Accommodation

Room Service TV in All Rooms Minibar in All Rooms Airconditioned Rooms Restaurant Bar Business Facilities Swimming Pool Fitness Facilities Casino Hotel Parking Credit Cards WiFi Handicape Room with good view

Please note: Number of stars according to the Bulgarian classification hotels

111, Alexandar Malinov Blvd. h 5 map back & 02 807 07 07 Public transport: 2-4, Budapeshta Str. h 2 map D3 fax: 02 807 07 08 B-413,113,213 & + 359 2 8 107 777 Public transport: e-mail:[email protected] cell: 0886 10 77 77 Tm -20, 22; Metro www.hisofiahotel.com fax: +359 2 8 107 770 Room rates: from EURO 70.00 e-mail: [email protected] The hotel offers 130 luxurious en-suite bed- www.arenadiserdica.com rooms with separate bath and shower, flat Double rooms - 40, Suites - 23 screen TV and free high speed internet. The Room rates: EURO 120 - 280 international Executive Chef provides a variety Strategically located in the heart of the city, right of dining experiences ranging from an informal next to the major government institutions, business meal to a gourmet dinner at the Brasserie centers and banks, as well as some cultural and Restaurant & Terrace. 11 state-of-the-art con- historical places, the luxurious Arena di Serdica ference suites for up to 300 delegates at highly Residence Hotel is an excellent choice for business competitive rates. The unique ESPRIT Fitness and cultural trips. & Spa club facilities include a 19m indoor swimming pool, indoor and outdoor Jacuzzis Grand Hotel Sofia & gym with the latest Technogym equipment. In close proximity to Sofia Airport and the city centre. 100 free secure parking spaces 1, Gen. Yosif V. Gurko Str. h 3 map D3 available to hotel guests and event delegates. fax: +359 2 811 0801 Public transport: Reservations: Tb-9; Tm-12,17 & +359 2 811 0800 Sofia Hotel Balkan e-mail: [email protected] Room rates: EURO 100-510 5, Sveta Nedelya Sq. h 9 map C3 Located in the very city center, overlooking the & 02 981 65 41 Public transport: City garden on the doorstep of the National Theatre fax: 02 980 64 64 Metro; Tm-9,10, 12, 18 and the City Art Gallery. The hotel features 105 unique spacious rooms of over 50 sq.m. At Room rates: EURO 135 - 225 guest’s disposal are also 17 comfortable oversized Located in the heart of Sofia, it is ideally situated just a stroll from the business and commercial suites including 2 Grand suites and 3 Panorama district. Recognized as one of the city’s grandest suites with balcony, providing the finest lodg- hotels and architectural landmarks, the Sheraton ing in Sofia. All rooms have air condition with Sofia offers guests an exceptional experi- individually controlled temperature, satellite and ence of Bulgaria’s finest culture and service. pay TV, inroom safe and electronic lock system, Archways of ceiling-high columns, dis- separate bathtub and shower cabin, bathroom tinctly constructed doors and moldings, telephone. Direct international dial telephones, and imported Italian marble floors outline voicemail messaging and high speed Internet the lobby of the hotel. Offers 184 splendid, access. Conference facilities seating from 10 to soundproof rooms and suites, including one 150, gourmet restaurant, café, lobby bar, Private Presidential Suite, 17 spacious suites, 17 Lounge, Sofia club, health centre, indoor parking. smart rooms and 71 non-smoking rooms. HOTEL Accommodation 11

Expo Hotel

6, Stara Planina Str. 6, Stara Planinaphone Str.+359 2 915 15 00 h 11 map E2 & 02 915cell 15 +359 00 885 650 665 Public transport: 149, Tsarigradsko Shose Blvd. h 10 map back fax: 02 986ww 20w. 00sofiacityhotel.co m Tm-20,22, & 02 817 81 00 Public transport: [email protected]@sofiacit yhotel.com Metro fax: 02 974 30 90 Bus 114, 1, 6, Metro Station www.sofiacityhotel.comEnjoy your stay! e-mail: [email protected] Room rates: EURO 69-169 www.hotelexposofia.com First-class hotel right in the city centre, close to Room Rates: EUR 69 – 109 the Sofia Opera House. 61 air-conditioned rooms Take advantage and enjoy the central location and suites, Internet access, lobby bar, restau- of the Best Western Hotel Expo in the heart of rant, 2 conference rooms, currency exchange office, sauna, massage center, hair-dresser, the business area of the Bulgarian capital and laundry, dry-cleaning and summer garden. just within 7 minute drive from Airport Sofia. A step away from Sofia’s premier International Crystal Palace Hotel Exhibition and Congress center, the 4 star Best Western Hotel Expo features 99 rooms, flexible meeting rooms, a state-of-art Business Lounge 14, Shipka Str. h 12 map F3 and elegant bar and dining options as well as & + 359 2 9489 489 Public transport: lush open-air summer garden. Complimentary Fax: + 359 2 9489490 Metro, B - 306, 280 shuttle service to and from Sofia International cell: +359 886 399 504 Tb - 2, 5 Airport, just within 7 minute drive. Enjoy the e-mail: [email protected] central city landmarks by taking the Metro which www.crystalpalace-sofia.com is situated just front of the hotel. Within 2 minute Single Rooms - 53, Junior Suites - 3, Suites - 10 car ride can easily reach the city concert & Room rates: EURO 110 - 250 sport venue Arena Armeec Hall, several shop- ping malls and main countryside highways. Crystal Palace is one of the best 4-star hotels in Sofia because of its great architecture and city center location. In close proximity to all important venues in Sofia, the Crystal Palace Boutique Hotel.

Best Western Premier Sofia Airport 27, Vasil Levski Blvd. h 17 map C5 & 02 930 52 00 Public transport: 11, Bryuksel Blvd. h 13 (map back) fax: 02 930 53 00 B-94, Tb-9,1, 2, 5, 8 +359/ 2 905 13 13 Public Transport: [email protected] GPS: N 42.696895, www.hotelpremiersofia.com B-84, Metro www.hotel-downtown.net E 23.319111 Part of the largest hotel chain in the world - Best Offers a perfect setting for business and leisure. Western - with more than 4000 hotels worldwide. 59 air-conditioned, non-smoking guest rooms, Boasting a convenient location at the new business including 12 suites, all being a harmonious district of Sofia, just 0,5 km from Sofia International blend of the cozy comfort of a home and Airport, the impressive brand new 4-star BEST luxurious amenities of a hotel. Free Internet; WESTERN PREMIER Sofia Airport hotel offers con- Meeting facilities up to 60 persons; Restaurant venient access from two main highways and sev- eral dynamic Business centers, including Sofia Airport and lobby bar; Fitness, sauna, solarium and Center and European Trade Center Europe. massage for maximum guest comfort. 12 Accommodation The modern BEST WESTERN PREMIER hotel provides 155 spacious Premier King & Twin, Deluxe Queen and Business Suite rooms. The hotel offers easy access of shopping areas, dining and leisure options via Metro, public transport or taxi. Organize an event for up to 400 people at BEST WESTERN PREMIER hotel with the latest A/V technology and a 450 sq. meter flexible function space, including Heathrow grand ballroom. Whether it’s for a meeting, training seminar or wedding, our dedicated team will ensure your event is a success. 64, Tsarigradsko shose Blvd. h 19 map back HILL HOTEL & +359 2 42 47 900 Public transport: fax: +359 2 875 70 00 Metro, B76, 84, 213 E: [email protected] 76B, James Bouchier Bvld. h 17 map D3 www.metropolitanhotelsofia.com & +359 2 806 55 55 Public transport: Room rates: EURO 108-176 cell: 0878 44 11 84 Metro Rooms: Single - 31, Double - 141, Suites - 11, fax: +359 2 806 55 00 Corner Studios - 16, Panorama apartments - 2 e-mail: [email protected] Stylish urban hotel with unconventional design www.hillhotel-sofia.com welcomes you at the eastern gate of the capital Single rooms - 14, Double rooms - 34 city – 3 km away from Sofia Airport, 4 km Room rates: EURO 100 -120 BB from Business Park Sofia and within a walking Hill Hotel is a modern 4-star business hotel distance from the International Expo Centre (IEC) located near the city center and just 100 meters and The Mall shopping centre. Discreet and away from the closest subway station. It is close thoughtful service, feel-at-home sensation and to the city’s commercial and financial areas and varied entertainment make your stay a memo- has easy access to the airport and Central Railway rable experience. station. Hill Hotels offers its guests a business center, large conference hall as well as fitness and SPA center.

29, Knyaginya Maria Luiza Blvd. h 18 map C2 & 02 980 55 77 Public transport: 115N Tsarigradsko Shosse Blvd. h 20 map back fax: 02 980 33 55 Metro; Tm-20,22 & /Fax +359 290 43 000 Public transport: e-mail: [email protected] www.novotel.com/8468 Metro; B-84, 204, 604 www.marialuisa-bg.com e-mail: [email protected] Room rates: EURO 75-135 Novotel Sofia is ideally located in one of the most important business districts of Sofia and The Maria Luisa hotel occupies an exquisite is only 10 min from the historical city center and building dating back to the turn of the last the airport. This new 4-star hotel is adjacent to century and considered one of the national The Mall, one of Sofia’s biggest shopping and cultural monuments. It is situated in the very entertainment centers. Either you come for busi- heart of Sofia in close proximity to significant ness, for a meeting or with your family, you will business and administrative centers, Ministries be fascinated by the modern atmosphere and and Central shop markets. 15 rooms, 5 suites, functionality of its design. WIFI is free of charge restaurant, lobby bar, business centre, parking. in all hotel spaces. Take advantage of the NOVO All rooms are beautifully appointed, with luxury 2 Lounge Bar & Restaurant or relax in Balance fit- in-suite bathrooms, cable TV, audio equipment, ness where massages are also available. Parking direct telephone connection, internet access. is free for all hotel guests. Accommodation 13

409, Tsar Boris III Blvd. h 26 map back Ibis Sofia Airport Hotel Knyazhevo District Public transport: & +3592 957 15 09 B-58, 59 cell: +359888 81 89 38 Tm: 5 www.hotelamfora.dir.bg 132, Mimi Balkanska Str. h 46 map back & +35929444488 Public Transport: Room rates: EURO 15 (Suites: EURO 45) 14 rooms and 3 suites. The Amphora fam- fax:+35929444488 Bus 84 ily hotel offers you the opportunity to combine e-mail: [email protected] your business engagements in the Bulgarian www.ibis.com capital with a nice rest on the slopes of the Room rates: EURO 55-65 Vitosha mountain. The hotel is situated on The brand new Ibis Hotel is ideally located just the main road from Sofia to the towns of 500 m from Sofia Airport Center and 2 to 5 min- Knyazhevo and Vladaya and is only 5 min. on foot from the public transportation. At the utes driving to Megapark, European Trade Center, hotel a guarded parking lot is also available. Interexpo Center and Arena Armeets hall. It is easily accessible by public transport - 1 minute walking distance to a bus and 1,6 km to metro ARTE HOTEL station. With 84 standard Ibis rooms, a summer garden restaurant and 4 meeting rooms, free WiFi, 5 Dondukov blvd. business corner and office by day services, Ibis Tel. +359 2 402 7100 Hotel is perfect for business trips and a smart [email protected] choice for weekend breaks. www.artehotelbg.com Public transport: Metro; Tram - 20, 22, 23 Map D3 Located in the most attractive part of the city centre, the hotel is next to major government institutions, cultural sites and tourist venues. Alexander Nevski Cathedral, National Archaeological Museum, Sofia Opera and Serdika tube station are a stone’s throw Meg-Lozenetz away. With its 25 elegantly appointed units offering a comprehensive range of in-room facilities and free WiFi, Arte hotel is the perfect choice for both business and leisure trips. 84, Krum Popov Str. h 29 map C7 & 02 965 19 70 Public transport: & 02 963 35 23 Tm-6,9; B-94 Cell: 0889 464 300 Metro /Europian Union/ Restaurant Azaar Spanish Cuisine - 0888 020 020 e-mail: [email protected] www.meg-lozenetz.com Boyana District, 5, Sborishte Square Room rates: EURO 75-150 &/fax: 02 959 05 29 h 35 map back It is in the close proximity to the National Palace of www.villa-boyana.com Public transport: Culture and to the shopping area of the “Vitosha” e-mail: [email protected] B-107, 64 boulevard, just 15 minutes by car from Sofia Room rates: EURO 40-50 Airport. The hotel is near Metro Station “Europian Located in the middle of Boyana village, a few Union”. The hotel has 17 luxury furnished double minutes from “National History Museum”, a few and triple rooms. Rooms offer internet connec- tion, AC, mini bar, IDD phone, TV, own heating, meters away from the world famous “Boyana room service. Restaurant, spanish cuisine with Church” and only ten minutes by car from the cosy garden, newly opened lobby bar with special downtown of Sofia. Comfortable well-appointed menu, parking. bedrooms. Special welcomes by request. 14 Accommodation

Park Hotel Moskva Hotel Restaurant Montecito h 32 map back Phone: +359 2 973 6246 25, Nezabravka Str. h 46 map H8 Cell: +359 88 800 4820 Public Transport: B 5, 6, 7 & +3592 971 10 24 Public transport: [email protected] e-mail: [email protected] Metro www.hotelmontecito.bg Room rates: EURO 24 - 61 Hotel Montecito is situated on the main bou- Park hotel Moskva is situated in the most beautiful levard, leading to the city center, close to and green part of Sofia - the Borisova garden. An ideal Sofia Airport, Sofia Business Center and location and easy access to all modes of transport. The hotel offers 120 rooms and 40 new suites with International Expo Center. The hotel features 101 panoramic views, 2 restaurants, a summer and a winter well-appointed guestrooms, main restaurant, garden, 7 conference halls up to 600 seats, parking resembling a small palace, cozy summer gar- and alot more. den, outdoor swimming pool and large parking. Montecito Hall is the newest value in Sofia, luxury designed in style of The Palace of Versailles, perfect for special events. Montecito kids is huge and attractive party center, offers professional animation and services.

4, Verila Str. h 37 map B5 & 02 952 08 30 Public transport: NIKY HOTEL &/fax: 02 951 57 60 Tm-6; Tb-1, 2, 5, 8, 9 cell: 0886 51 35 82 16, Neofit Rilski Str. h 30 map B4 e-mail: [email protected] & 02 952 30 58, 02 953 01 10 Public transport: www.hotelthehouse.com fax: 02 951 60 91 Tb-1, 2, 5, 8 Rooms rates: EURO 31-43 & 02 851 19 15 – restaurant Located in the very heart of Sofia next to the e-mail: [email protected] National Palace of Culture. All rooms are designed Room rates: EURO 35-105 according to European standards - air-condition- 16 Suites, 3 Single and 4 Double rooms. All rooms offer free of charge Internet accesses, ing, separate bath-room, cable TV, Wi-Fi, refrig- cable T.V., direct telephone line, kitchenette (coffee, erator. Equipped with telephone, air-conditioning, tea making facilities), room service, air-conditioning, cable TV, central heating, free internet access. own heating. BBQ restaurant-garden with authentic rooms, wireless internet, cable TV, air-conditioning. bulgarian cuisine.

easyHotel Sofia - LOW COST 29, Hristo Belchev Str. h 34 map C4 & + 359 2 4811400 Public transport: 108, Aldomirovska Str. h 38 map back fax: + 359 2 4811401 Tb-1, 2, 5, 8, 9 /Todor Alexandrov Blvd./ Public transport: [email protected] & 02 920 16 54 Metro, Tm 3, 8,10 www.sofiaplacehotel.com fax: 02 822 82 15 Room rates: EURO 50 – 90 e-mail: [email protected] Located in the heart of the city, near the major www.easyhotel-sofia.bg www.easyhotel.com business and shopping centres as well as cultural Room rates: EURO 19 - 34 EUR monuments Sofia Place Hotel offers 20 modern easyHotel Sofia is part of the British hotel chain easyHo- designed rooms equipped with telephone, mini bar, tel.co, which is unique for offering modern facilities and air-condition, Wi Fi, cable TV and central heating. impeccable service at unusually low rates. Situated on But our best quality is the staff! Personal attention the corner of Aldomirovska Street and the main Todor to every guest is our “speciality”! Alexandrov Boulevard, the brand new hotel is on just Accommodation 15

5 minutes walk from the beating heart of central Sofia. coziness at a reasonable price. We offer fully furnished All the 57 rooms are minimized in size however each and equipped apartments and studios for short and is equipped with private bathroom, double bed, TV and longer term stay. The apartments are located in the Wi-Fi access, air-conditioning. The earlier you book, the center of Sofia. We offer studios, onebedroom and two less you pay. Check in – 2 pm; Check out – 11 am. bedroom apartments . In some of the flats there are Check best rates and book at www.easyhotel.com spa bathroom.

Vitosha Apartments - self-catering serviced apart- ments on and nearby Vitosha Blvd. h42, C4 12, Dragovitsa Str. h 39 map back 35, Tsar Asen Str. (entrance from Uzundzovska Str.) & 02 944 89 52 Public transport: оffice: +359 2 987 03 88 Public transport: fax: 02 943 34 71 B-11,305,413,72 mobile: +359 897 845 055 metro, Tb 1,2,5,8,9 e-mail: [email protected] B- 404;Tm-20,22 e-mail: [email protected] facebook.com/VitoshaApartments www.madridbg.com www.vitosha-apartments.com Cosy and quiet family hotel, situated close to the Airport Pick up service city center and Poduyane railway station. 14 rooms Room rates: EURO 45 - 90 per night (2 single, 10 double, 2 double deluxe) and a suite. Equipped with telephone, air-conditioning, Hello dear guests and friends of Vitosha Apartments. cable TV, central heating, free internet access. We are glad to announce you that we’ve moved to another central location. We are now at 9, Bistritsa Street, off Hristo Botev Apartment Rentals Boulevard within a 5 minutes walking away from our old Office. Our new place is called MEETING POINT and you can contact there with us only with appointment on the given mobile phone and e-mail for reservations. Check-in will be done at the address which will be given in advance. Thank you so much for beeing faith- bl. 531, Anna Ahmatova Str., h 41 map back ful guests, partners and friends! Mladost 1A Distr. Public transport: The team of Vitosha Apartments. fax /& +359 2 974 41 60 Metro cell: +359 2 887 70 55 30 B-213,88,76, 305 e-mail: [email protected] www.block531.com Are you looking for a good accommodation during your stay in Sofia? The information for our lodging conditions shall be useful for you: double rooms and apartments in a new building, with guaranteed comfort and coziness – situated in the south-east part of Sofia, Mladost 1A, 5,5 km. from the Sofia airport. Anyone can do it!

Every Saturday, at top places, in top cities: Free, organized running for everyone! The pleasure - to run for pleasure! Marrinella apartments 53, Patriarh Evtimii Blvd h43, Map B5 5kmrun.bg Cell: 00359898367112, & 00359 2 9516 555 [email protected] www.flatsinsofia.com min 36 euro - max 84 euro Airport shuttle, Tv in every room, Children television networks, Ironing service, Laundry, Air Conditioning, Heating, Bottle of water and coca cola. Marrinella apartments combine comfort, privacy and cityinfoguides.com CITYINFOGUIDES.com 16 restaurants

Bulgarian restaurant Chevermeto – whatever is at heart Bulgarian restaurant “Chevermeto” is the first authentic, real Bulgarian restaurant in Sofia established in 1996. With its opening the restaurant has a tradition every night the rich musical program to be attended by a beautiful folklore composition, the unique Bulgarian folklore and popular songs. The great Valya Balkanska, the unforgettable Stefka Sabotinova, Nadka Karadzhova and Kostadin Gugov have performed at the restaurant. For years has been singing the national singer Binka Dobreva from the Mystery of Bulgarian Voices. The actress and singer Stefka Berova has also been present in the restaurant’s repertoire for a long time. Tanya Skechelieva from the “Filip Kutev” Ensemble, which won the Pirin Folk Fest 2013, Margarita Popova, Sonya Ivanova and Ilian Iliev continue to sing at the restaurant every evening. The unique Ensemble “Gotse Delchev” – Sofia performs its beautiful spectacle including national dances from all regions of the country every night. In our capital only the Bulgarian restaurant “Chevermeto” maintains every evening its unique program for the past 20 years. Bulgarian restaurant “Chevermeto” combines authentic atmosphere, dishes from old recipes and a folklore spectacle. An atmosphere offering real Bulgarian comfort and returning us back in time to roots and traditions. For special occasions as wedding celebrations, jubilee events and others the restaurant offers authentic customs. Meeting the guests with bagpipes, bread with honey and salt, rituals left as traditions from our ancestors during the ages. We will take you to a Bulgarian fairytale as an old as legend. And maybe that’s the evening you want to have? This can come true only at our Bulgarian restaurant “Chevermeto”. restaurants 17

NDK - Prono, 1, Bulgaria Blvd., &+359 2 9 630 308; +359 885 630 308 Every day from 12.00 to 00.00, www.chevermeto-bg.com 18 restaurants Please note: the price guide is an approximate dinner cost s - up to 25 lv per person; ss - up to 40 lv per person sss - over 40 lv per person Bar & Dining Bulgarian

ss Club of Architect NDK - Prono ss 11, Krakra Str. (map F4) 1, Bulgaria Blvd. (map B6) Open: 12.00-24.00 Open every day: 12.00 - 00.00 cell: +359 888 880 979 & +359 2 9 630 308 Offers great variety of European cuisine: interest cell: +359 885 630 308 salad, dishes, desserts & rich list of wine. e-mail: [email protected] Summer & winter garden: 110 seats www.chevermeto-bg.com Credit cards: accepted Restaurant Chevermeto combines authentic atmosphere, dishes prepared according to old receipts and a folklore show. Every evening a whole lamb is roasted on fire as “cheverme”, where the name of the restaurant 21, Tzar Osvoboditel Blvd. comes from. If you want to try all these take +359884 441 441, ss your friends and bring them to Chevermeto, the [email protected], www.esterhasi.com way it is done by ministers, presidents, royalties Esterhasi bar is located in the heart of Sofia, one step and celebrities. away from everything. Modern interior, European cuisine and a friendly atmosphere are the perfect combination for waiting out the evening traffic, with a glass of wine in your hand. You certainly have to test out our talented chefs, while enjoying the view to the Knyazheska Garden and Turkish consulate. Every Friday and Saturday night, Infiniti’s latest model will take you to your next party des- tination. Esterhasi bar – the place, everyone talks about! The cool place in town… 71, Knyaz Al.Dondukov Blvd. (map F2) s Reservations: +359 887 45 50 50 www.stariachinar.com The corner of Evlogi Georgiev Blvd. and ss Staria Chinar (Old Sycamore) will rekindle the Hristo Smirnenski Blvd. passion of the fans of game meats and delicious cell: +359 88 233 3555 homemade dishes from the Balkans culinary, www.maraia.bg/classic prepared in original and spicy style. Welcome to the heart of Sofia, to the heart of Working time: 24/7 Maraia Classic is an ideal place for business and culinary temptations, in cozy house built in 1922, friendly meetings at any time of the day. Here you where good food for a good company is waiting can enjoy delicious meals, drink your favorite cock- for you! tails and drinks, or relax after a night out in Sofia. Above all, this is where hospitality adds value to the feeling of being in an oasis in the middle of the city. Come and be our guests, so you could enjoy the Maraia experience! Restaurant Vodenitzata ss The New Fox&Hound Dragalevtsi District (map back) ss 34, Angel Kanchev Str., (map C5) & 02 967 10 58, fax: 02 967 50 07 Cell: +359 876 331 419 Open: 12.00-24.00 & +359 980 74 27 www.vodenitzata.com Open: 10.00 - 24.00 One of the top ranked restaurants due to its magnifi- Stepping through the cent scenery. During the winter months 2 fireplaces doors of the Fox & Hound illuminate the stone walls. The impression of the is like traveling back in time to foggy old Albion. programme show can be multiplied by tasting tradi- This lively and friendly tional Bulgarian specialities and splash them with the British pub serves excel- excellent rakia and wine. Reservations by all means. lent food and an impres- sive selection of drinks. restaurants 19 International

1, Oborishte Str. & 0888 04 04 04 “La Cattedrale” restaurant ss Unique view in the heart of Sofia. Several different Restaurant LEBED in its own style gardens...You can immerse yourself 241, Samokovsko Shose Str. (map back) ss into the comfort and tranquility of the flora in the & 02 992 11 11 yard of the Academy of Arts or in front of the impos- Open: 12.00-24.00 ing figure of a temple-monument www.restaurantlebed.com “Alexander Nevsky”. Fine cuisine with recipes from all around the world, Situated on the very shore of the Pancharevo special menus and excellent service. lake. 2 halls and splendid garden, whose Mediterranean style and natural beauty make the atmosphere really romantic. Seafood delights, as well as a rich collection of selected beverage.

La Vitta e Bella ss Restaurant Maraia Fusion 6, Stara Planina Str. (map E2, Best Western Plus 123 „Georgi S. Rakovski“ Str. ss City Hotel Sofia) cell: +359 88 266 6777 & 02 989 70 07 www.maraia.bg/fusion Open: 12.00 - 23.00 Working time: 08:00 - 24:00 La Vita è Bella is the restaurant of the capital Best Restaurant MARAIA FUSION is a modern Western Plus City Hotel. The interior is in the spirit restaurant offering European and Asian cuisine! of radiant, relaxed and cozy Italian atmosphere and in the warm season the garden outside is like a Here you will find a variety of tastes and culinary small Italian city oasis in old Sofia. Great food, great nuances that will make you visit us again! wines and hearty welcoming – this is what clients Fusion is the hottest trend in the food industry, here receive. that’s who we are - Fusion!

restaurant - terrace Indian / Nepal

gourmet burger 113 “Georgi S. Rakovski” Str. Cell: +359 879555559 www.hamburguesanostra.bgrestaurant - terrace Working time: 10:00 - 23:00 Hamburguesa Nostra emerges as a pioneer in a bold gourmet burger Gurkha ss endeavor: discovers the traditional concept of the Lozenets Distr. burgher by making it a gourmet food. 56, Tsvetna Gradina Str. (map B8) & 02 865 02 16 Pizza cell 0884 939 100 Open: Every day 11:00-24:00 121 G. S. Rakovski str. www.gurkhabg.com 10:00am - 11:30pm DELIVERY HOLE SOFIA - till 22:00h +359 884 474 003 Indian and Nepali cuisine. Dishes from all over Asia. [email protected] Nice and cozy place. Easy to find, 2 minutes from facebook.com/vinovinosofia s NDK, with a range of hotels around - Marinella, www.vinovinobistro.com Hilton, Hemus, Lozenets, Apartment House Lozenets, VinoVino is a charming bistro-pizzeria in the heart of California, 7 Hills, Greenville... Parking. Wi-Fi zone. Sofia. Its garden is vibrant, its interior – unexpected. Delivery 11.30-22.00 The food is delicious homemade gourmet. The wine is abundant. It brings sense of cosiness. 20 Bulgaria in Brief Bulgaria in Brief 21 22 NIGHT LIFE bARS & cLUBS Erotic barS

4, Vitosha Blvd. (map C3) & +359 2 981 36 63, +359 2 981 07 70 Club Stroeja www.FetishSofia.com Open every day: 9 PM - 4 AM 10, Lege Str. Friday and Saturday 9 PM - 5 PM Reservations: +359 885 974666 The only and unique FETISH club in Sofia. facebook.com/stroeja Open: Monday - Sunday 16:00 - 3:00 Every night you can enjoy the company of 20 highly attractive and hottest girls in most pleasant atmosphere. Do not hesitate and call us - we promise to bring all your fantasies to life!

Club Terminal 1 1, Angel Kanchev Str. Reservations: +359 889 219001 facebook.com/clubterminal1 Open: Thursday - Saturday 21:00 - 6:00

Casinos MEN’S PARADISE 19, Karnigradska, Str. (map C4) (near Vitosha Blvd.) cell:+359 897 93 66 02 OPEN: 23:00 - 05:00 Casino Sofia www.mensparadise.club 4, Narodno Sabranie Square (Radisson Hotel BLU) Topless EROTIC BAR Men’s Paradise is the new- cell: +359 888 77 66 55 est place for entertainment and perfect relax. Get ready to experience exciting and deeply satisfying moments with our top dancers, who can stop your breath and make you feel in real paradise for men with their beauty, flexibility and erotic charm. Princess Sofia 131, Kn. Maria Luiza Blvd. (map C0) (Sofia Ramada Hotel), & +359 2 933 88 88

Viva Casino PEEP SHOW BAR Sofia Hotel Balkan (map C3) 7, Lavov Most Sq. (map D1) & 02 981 57 47, 02 986 35 01, cell: +359 897 936 602 cell: +359 893 729 190 www.groupviva.com peepshow-bg.com Bulgaria in Brief 23 24 CULTURE

Culture Centers - Programme

Polish Institute in Sofia 12, Veslets Str. & +359 2 981 09 07 Fax +359 2 981 57 44 [email protected] Twitter: @PLISofia Web: www.institutpolski.org FB: facebook.com/polski.institut.sofia

Exhibition Józef Piłsudski - A Polish and European statesman 24 October – 30 November 2017 Exhibition devoted to Józef Piłsudski, the Commander of Polish Legions, vanquisher of Bolsheviks, Chief of State and the first Marshal of Poland. 13 boards shows the character of the Marshal through the prism of universal values - the efforts to secure Europe, the right to self-determination of nations, the fight for social rights (universal employee insurance and electoral rights of women).

Sofia Opera and Ballet

1, Vrabcha Str. & 02 987 13 66 www.operasofia.bg 3, Friday- 10:00 - SHEGOBISHKO ON THE ISLAND OF MIRACLES 3, Friday 19:00; 4, Saturday 19:00; 5, Sunday 16:00; 9, Thursday 19:00 - PREMIERE CARMEN 4, Saturday 11:00 - THE THREE PIGGIES 5, Sunday 11:00 - WINNIE-THE-POOH 10, Friday 10:00 - THE THREE PIGGIES 11, Saturday 11:00 - HÄNSEL UND GRETEL 11, Saturday 19:00; 12, Sunday 16:00 - CARMEN 12, Sunday 11:00 - SHEGOBISHKO ON THE ISLAND OF MIRACLES 16, Thursday 10:00 - HÄNSEL UND GRETEL 17, Friday 10:00 THE GOLDEN APPLE 18, Saturday 11:00 LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD 19, Sunday 11:00 - DAS RHEINGOLD FOR CHILDREN 24, Friday 10:00 - DIE ZAUBERFLÖTE FOR CHILDREN

CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL – OPENING 24, Friday 19:00; 25, Saturday 19:00; 26, Sunday 16:00 PREMIERE LE CORSAIRE 25, Saturday 11:00 - WINNIE-THE-POOH 26, Sunday 11:00 - THE THREE PIGGIES 30, Thursday 10:00 - HÄNSEL UND GRETEL 30, Thursday 19:00 - GIAMPIERO SOBRINO clarinet CONCERT CULTURE 25

National Music & Ballet Center - Sofia

1st, 19.00 - ANNUAL AWARDS “Cristal Lyre” 100, Vasil Levski Blvd. 4th,11.00 - The ugly Duckling & 02 943 19 79 4th, 19.00 - THE CSARDAS QUEEN www.musictheatre.bg 5th, 14.00 - concert by P.Vangelov www.arabesque.bg 5th, 17.00 - concert of the 100th anniversary of the music theater 01.11. - 19.00ч. - Годишни награди „КРИСТАЛНА ЛИРА” 8th, 19.00 - Orpheus in hell 02.11. - 19.00ч. - „Огледало на времето“ – Балет Арабеск 11th, 11.00 - Yan Bibiyan 04.11. - 11.00ч. - „Грозното пате“ 11th, 19.00 - Sunset Boulevard 04.11. - 19.00ч. - „Царицата на чардаша“ 12th, 11.00 - the golden cock 05.11. - 14.00ч. - „На чаша шампанско с П.Вангелов 12th, 19.00 - Sunset Boulevard 05.11. - 17.00ч. - Концерт „100г. ОПЕРЕТА” 17th, 19.00 - Concert National academy of Music-prof. 08.11. - 19.00ч. - „Орфей в ада“ Pancho Vladigerov 11.11. - 11.00ч. - „Ян Бибиян“ 18th, 19.00 - escape 11.11. - 19.00ч. - „Булевардът на залеза“ 19th, 11.00 - the golden cock 12.11. - 11.00ч. - „Златното петле“ 19th, 17.00 - escape 12.11 - 17.00ч. - „Булевардът на залеза“ 23rd, 19.00 - one night in venice 16.11. - 19.00ч. - „Градски шум-черна кутия“ 24th, 19.00 - THE CSARDAS QUEEN Премиера - Балет Арабеск 25th, 11.00 - Aladin 17.11. - 19.00ч. - Концерт на НМА „Проф.П.Владигеров” 25th, 19.00 - concert of the 100th anniversary of the 18.11. - 19.00ч. - „Бягство“ music theater 19.11. - 11.00ч. - „Златното петле“ 26th, 11.00 - Charl the cat 19.11. - 17.00ч. - „Бягство“ 29th, 19.00 - Gats 23.11. - 19.00ч. - „Една нощ във Венеция“ 30th, 19.00 - Orpheus in hell 24.11. - 19.00ч. - „Царицата на чардаша“ 29th, 17.00 - premiere Orpheus in hell 25.11. - 11.00ч. - „Аладин“ 25.11. - 19.00ч. - „100г. ОПЕРЕТА” ARABESK 26.11. - 11.00ч. - „Котаракът Шарл“ 2nd, 19.00 - a mirror of time 26.11. - 17.00ч. - Конкурс „Маргарита Арнаудова” – 16th, 19.00 - urban noise black box Балет Арабеск 26th, 17.00 - COMPETITION dedicated to Margarita 29.11. - 19.00ч. - „Котки“- Гостува ТМПЦ гр.Варна Arnaudova 30.11. - 19.00ч. - „Орфей в ада“ 26 CULTURE

“Sofia” Theatre has the pleasure to invite you to be part of one unforgettable experience with performances also with subtitles in English. All performances with subs will be designated with this symbol: * PROGRAMME 01.11. - ГОСПОЖА МИНИСТЕРШАТА 23A Yanko Sakazov Blvd. 02.11. - АННА КАРЕНИНА phone.: +359 2 944 24 85 / +359 878 92 75 21 03.11. - ЖЕНИТБА www.sofiatheatre.eu 04.11. - НОЩТА НА 16-ТИ ЯНУАРИ 05.11. - ПИТЪР ПАН GRAND HALL - 19:00 07.11. - СКАЧАЙ! 1st, 10th, - THE MINISTER’S WIFE 08.11. - АЛОНСО 2nd, 21st, - ANNA KARENINA * 09.11. - ОЛД СЕЙБРУК И ПОСЛЕДНИЯТ 3rd, 17th, - MARRIAGE СТРАСТЕН ЛЮБОВНИК 4th, 22nd, - THE NIGHT OF JANUARY 16TH 10.11. - ГОСПОЖА МИНИСТЕРШАТА 7th - JUMP! * 11.11. - МАЛКАТА МОРСКА СИРЕНА 8th, 23rd - ALONSO 11.11. - АПЕТИТ ЗА ЧЕРЕШИ 9th, 30th - OLD SAYBROOK and LAST OF THE 12.11. - МЕРИ ПОПИНЗ RED HOT LOVERS * 13.11. - ЖЕНСКО ЦАРСТВО - 13th - FEMALE KINGDOM guest theatre Гостува „Искри и Сезони“ 14th, 28th - FRANKENSTEIN 14.11. - ФРАНКЕНЩАЙН 15th, 29th - TIRAMISU * 15.11. - ТИРАМИСУ – 100-тно представление 16th - THE GOVERNMENT INSPECTOR 16.11. - РЕВИЗОР 17.11. - ЖЕНИТБА CHAMBER HALL 18.11. - ПОКАНА ЗА ВЕЧЕРЯ 11th - APPETITE FOR CHERRIES 19.11. - ПИПИ - Премиера 18th - INVITATION FOR DINNER 21.11. - АННА КАРЕНИНА FOR CHILDREN - THE PLAYS BEGIN AT 11:00 22.11. - НОЩТА НА 16-ТИ ЯНУАРИ GRAND HALL 23.11. - АЛОНСО 5th, 8th - PETER PAN * 26.11. - РОНЯ, ДЪЩЕРЯТА НА РАЗБОЙНИКА 11th - THE LITTLE MERMAID 28.11. - ФРАНКЕНЩАЙН 12th - MARY POPPINS 29.11. - ТИРАМИСУ 19th - Pippi premiere 30.11. - ОЛД СЕЙБРУК И ПОСЛЕДНИЯТ 26th - RONIA THE ROBBER’S DAUGHTER СТРАСТЕН ЛЮБОВНИК

FRANKENSTEIN CULTURE 27

3, Lege Str. (map C3) cell: 0894 341 724 www.artgalleryeurope.eu [email protected] Mon – Sat: 11.00 - 19.00

The exhibition of the original Burgas painter Nikolay Between November 2nd, and 16th,, we will present Angelov - Gary. five young and talented authors - Tanya Pavlova, The exhibition will last until November 31st. Alexandrina Ivanova, Stevlin Yovchev, Mariana Изложбата на своеобразният, бургаски Maneva, Katya Walter Pozkova. In художник Николай Ангелов - Гари. Между 2 и 16 ноември ще представим - Експозицията ще продължи до 31 ноември. петима млади и талантливи автори - Таня Павлова, Александрина Иванова, Стевлин Йовчев, Мариана Манева, Катя Валтер Поцкова..

Aleksandrina Ivanova

Katia Valter Pockova Art Shop

4, Vitosha Blvd., Sofia Knyaz Aleksander I Sq. Mon.-Sun.: 10.30-20.30 1000 Sofia Phone: +359 879 947022 The shop is situated in the former www.balkansko-shops.bg royal palace in the heart of Sofia. Email: [email protected] Phone: +359884550610 www.facebook.com/balkansko Working hours: 09:00-18:00 With lots of devotion and love we collect the best of Bulgarian handicrafts! You will find here Bulgarian traditional souvenirs and cosmetics, silver filigree, music, paintings, icons, sweets and beverages. Welcome to Balkansko – Tradition & Spirit! 28 Useful Numbers Car Rentals Railway Central Railway Station Knyaginya Maria Luiza Blvd. (map C0) 53, Nikola Vaptsarov (map back) & 02 931 11 11, 02 932 33 33 & 02 439 02 22/ 23 www.bdz.bg fax: 02 439 12 25 e-mail: [email protected] Info Center Sofia Airport: & 029 459 217 CENTRAL BUS STATION 100, Knyaginya Maria Luiza Blvd. (map C0) & 0900 21 000 Underpass of St. Kliment Ohridski Univercity of www.centralnaavtogara.bg Sofia and Metrostation St. Kliment Ohridski Open: Mon - Fri 9.30 - 18.00 (winter) Diplomatic Missions & 02 491 83 44/ 45 Austria 4, Shipka Str. - & 02 932 90 32 www.bmeia.gv.at/botschaft/sofia Medical Services Canadian Honorary Consulate The Embassy the country you came from 7, Pozitano Str. - & 02 969 97 10 may be able to refer you to a doctor who e-mail: [email protected] speaks your language. The Accident and Emergency Hospital for France Sofia is the Pirogov hospital at 21, Gen. 29, Oborishte Str. - & 02 965 1100 Totleben Blvd. [email protected] [email protected] Germany 25, Fr. Joliot-Curie Str. - & 02 918 38 00 www.sofia.diplo.de Italy 2, Shipka Str. - & 359 2 921 73 00 MHATEM “N.I.Pirogov” [email protected] Emergency : 02/ 915 44 11 Japan 1606 Sofia, 21, Totleben Blvd 14, Lyuliakova gradina Str. - &+359 971-2708 diagnostics, therapy, education and training, [email protected] scientific research, methodology, emergency Mon.-Fri.08:30 -12:30 ;13:30- 17:15 help. Netherlands 15, Oborishte Str. - & 02 816 03 00 EMERGENCY NUMBER - 112 www.netherlandsembassy.bg

“ZHENSKI” BAZAAR 90B, Tzar Samuil Str. Phone: +3592 983 21 84 [email protected] Every Day: 07.00-18.00 www.pazari-vazrajdane.com facebook.com/pazarivuzrajdane facebook.com/ArtGallerySerdica The “Zhenski” (female) market is an attractive touristic destination – the largest and the oldest market in the central part of Sofia. The bazaar offers fresh vegetables and food, unique Bulgarian souvenirs, spices from Bulgaria and the Middle East. Many fast food restaurants, cozy cafés and the new cultural area – “Serdika” Gallery are also there to visit.

1

GRAB YOUR FREE CITY GUIDE AND HAVE A NICE STAY

www.cityinfoguides.com ISSN 2367-4717 I FREE GUIDE IN ENGLISH + MAP I Jan - Feb 2017 I ISSUE 16 2 EVENTS 18 RESTAURANTS

4 OVERVIEW 20 Useful Numbers

16 ACCOMMODATION

Дойде време за седмото The time has come for the sev- издание на DiVino.Taste! enth edition of DiVino.Taste!

И през този ноември София се This November, Sofia will became превръща във винена столица the wine capital of Bulgaria. The на България. Седмото издание seventh edition of the largest на най-големия форум за forum for Bulgarian wine DiVino. българско вино DiVino.Taste ще Taste will be held from 17th to се проведе от 17 до 19 ноември 19th November 2017. DiVino. 2017 година. DiVino.Taste Taste will be again in the National отново ще е в Националния Palace of Culture, but this time in дворец на културата, но този Halls 7, 8, 9. път в зали 7, 8, 9. Whether you are a wine connois- Независимо дали сте винен seur or just an enthusiast, you will познавач, ценител или have the opportunity to meet the просто ентусиаст, ще имате people who create the best wines възможност да се запознаете с in Bulgaria. DiVino.Taste will help хората, които създават най- you find more than 400 wines добрите вина в България. from more than 60 Bulgarian DiVino.Taste ще ви помогне да wineries and you can orient your- откриете повече от 400 вина self in the huge market offer. от над 60 български изби и да се ориентирате в огромното предлагане на пазара. EVENTS 3 EVENTS IN PLOVDIV

Гости на град Пловдив, ЕЛАТЕ на тазгодишния фестивал “ Дефиле на младото вино” 2017! С още повече участници, локации и забавления, ще прекарате последния уикенд на ноември в Стария град с чаша ароматно вино!

Тази година Пловдив Джаз Фест ще се проведе между 1 и 4 ноември в Дом на културата „Борис Христов”

12.12.2017

“Лезгинка” представлява мултиетнически състав, в който можете да видите не само красотата на кавказкия фолклор, но и песните на 33-те националности от Дагестан и Северен Кавказ. Танцьорите показват, че въпреки многото различни националности, могат плодотворно обединяват усилията си в конструктивни и творчески цели. 4 overview Plovdiv - Ancient and Eternal

Plovdiv is one of the oldest urban estab- some of the reasons for which the city of lishments in the world history. Its his- Plovdiv remains so interesting and appeal- tory dates back to the Neolithic era and ing throughout the years. Its geographical according to many updated historical data position between seven syenite hills and and researches the first settlement in this on the two banks of Maritsa River and area was founded around 4000 year B.C. mild climate with many warm sunny days Initially it was a Thracian city known as during the whole year also adds greatly to Puplpudeva but throughout the centuries its special charm. On the other hand the Plovdiv was largely known by its Greek passage of various tribes, the frequent name Philippopolis given to it in the honor change of ruling states especially in the of the father of Alexander the Great king medieval ages and the long Ottoman Philip II. The ancient name of the city dominance are maybe the main reasons Philippopolis is still largely used in Greece for Plovdiv’s unique history, cultural tradi- and in Cyprus. tions, local mentality of the city inhabitants Plovdiv passed in Roman hands as a and way of life. result of the separation of the Roman And last but not the least-Plovdiv has Empire and then the city passed under always been one of the main spiritual cen- Byzantine rule. The Bulgarian hegemony ters in Bulgaria. Its longstanding Orthodox over Plovdiv was firmly established after tradition has defined its history from 5th the wars of King Simeon the Great with century onwards. Nowadays Plovdiv is the Byzantium but later Byzantine Emperor second largest Christian Orthodox diocese Vassileios II got back control of the city. In of the Bulgarian Patriarchy which has the beginning of 13th century Plovdiv got a significant importance in the religious matters of our country. under the jurisdiction of the Latin Empire Many scholars point out the fact that which marked the beginning of major Plovdiv is the perfect example how rela- Catholic religious influence in the area. tively harmonious coexistence among As a result of this even at this point the different cultures can be achieved in the biggest Catholic community in Bulgaria is Balkans. Bulgarians, Greeks, Jews, Turks, in Plovdiv. Armenians and Roma live together in a Later on Bulgarian rule was established quite convenient way. These character- in Plovdiv for a short period but in 1364 istics of the city have also found their the expanding Ottoman army seized the reflection in its architecture, in its gastro- city and it became part of the new empire. nomic culture and generally in the way of Plovdiv was finally included in the borders life of the citizens. The local inhabitants of the modern Bulgarian state on 6th of are generally open for new contacts and September 1885 after the Unification of experiences, warm and talkative and ready the Princedom of Bulgaria with the Eastern to offer a helping hand to a stranger. Also Rumelia Province of the ailing Ottoman they are very fond of having a good time Empire. and with a vibrant sense of humor which This short historical flashback shows sometimes could be quite spicy. overview 5

Пловдив е един от най-старите му положение между седем хълма и градове в световната история. двата бряга на р. Марица и мек Неговата история датира от неолита климат с много топли слънчеви дни и според много актуални исторически през цялата година също допринася данни и проучвания първото селище значително за особеното си очарование. в тази област е основано около 4000 От друга страна, преминаването на години преди Христа. Първоначално различни племена, честата промяна това е бил тракийски град, известен на управляващите, особено в като Пулпудева, но през вековете средновековието и дългото османско Пловдив бил известен с гръцкото му владичество, са може би главните име Филипопол, даден му в чест на причини за уникалната история на бащата на Александър Велики цар Филип Пловдив, културните традиции, II. Древното име на града Филипопол местния манталитет на жителите на е все още широко използвано в Гърция града както и техния начин на живот. И не на последно място - Пловдив и Кипър. винаги е бил един от основните духовни Пловдив преминава в римски ръце, центрове в България. Дългата му в резултат на разделянето на православна традиция е определила Римската империя, а след това градът своята история отпреди 5 века. преминава под византийско управление. Днес Пловдив е втората по големина Българската хегемония над Пловдив християнска православна диоцеза е твърдо установена след войните на българската патриаршия, която на цар Симеон Велики с Византия. има голямо значение в религиозните По-късно византийският император въпроси на нашата страна. Василей II си връща контрола над града. Много учени изтъкват факта, че В началото на 13 век Пловдив попада под Пловдив е идеалният пример за това как юрисдикцията на Латинската империя, хармонично съжителстват различните която бележи началото на голямото култури. Българи, гърци, евреи, турци, католическо религиозно влияние в арменци и роми живеят заедно. Тези района. В резултат на това дори в този характеристики на града също са момент най-голямата католическа намерили отражение в архитектурата, общност в България е в Пловдив. в културата на хранене и като цяло По-късно българското управление е в живота на гражданите. Местните основано в Пловдив за кратък период, жители обикновено са отворени за но през 1364 г. разширяващата се нови контакти и преживявания, учтиви османска армия завладява града и става и готови да предложат помощ на част от новата империя. Пловдив е непознат. Пловдивчани обичат да се окончателно включен в границите на забавляват, имат чувство за хумор, съвременната българска държава на 6 което понякога може да бъде доста септември 1885 г. след обединението пикантно. на България с провинция Източна Румелия. История обосновава някои от причините, поради които град Пловдив остава толкова интересен и привлекателен през годините. Географското 6 overview

Bearing in mind all of the above you will have a splendid time in Plovdiv for sure. The best way to feel and research the unique atmosphere of the city is to visit some of its historical and cultural landmarks where you can also meet and observe its people. They are located mainly in the centre and in the areas around it so they could be easily found and accessed. Here is a list of some of them:

The ancient Roman Theatre is one of the few of its kind so well preserved and maintained. It dates back to the rule of Emperor Trajan (98-117) and it has 7000 seats. On some of the walls of the theatre there are some quite interesting inscriptions in ancient Greek. It is part of the greater Roman City which includes the Odeon and the Stadium. The Roman theatre is one of the symbols of Plovdiv and is included in the UNESCO List of World Cultural Heritage. It is good to know also that during spring and summer time a lot of theatrical plays are staged there. The experience of watching a performance in such a surrounding is really unforgettable.

St. Marina Cathedral is the main temple of the Plovdiv Orthodox diocese. The tradition says that the church was erected first in the middle of 15th century but it was constructed in its current state and wholly in stone from 1851 to 1856. St. Marina Cathedral is notable for its unique wooden bell tower, for the mural paintings depicting masterfully different Bible themes and for the astonishing wood carved Episcopal The Old Town is definitely one of the best throne. The cathedral is very popular spot preserved and maintained cultural sites for the citizens of Plovdiv especially on big in Bulgaria. It is designated as a historical Christian holidays and also is preferred holy reserve by state law and was fully renovated space for religious weddings and baptisms. and maintained during the 70’s and the 80’s of the last century. It gives the visitor the opportunity for a walk through a historical micro cosmos of the different stages of development of Plovdiv-from the ancient times to the period of the liberation of the country. The Old Town of Plovdiv is one of the most visited and popular historical sites in Bulgaria and still is a centre of a rich cultural activity. Each building carries its own charm and character and combines various features from different epochs and architectural influences. overview 7

Имайки предвид всичко това, със майсторски различни библейски сигурност ще имате прекрасно време теми, с изумителния дърворезбован в Пловдив. Най-добрият начин да епископски трон. Катедралата е много усетите и изследвате уникалната популярно място за гражданите на атмосфера на града е да посетите Пловдив, особено по време на големите някои от неговите исторически християнски празници. и културни забележителности, където можете да се срещнете и да КАТЕДРАЛА НА СВ. Луис е може би наблюдавате хората. Те се намират най-големият католически храм в главно в центъра и в районите около България. Построена е през 1850 г., а него, за да могат лесно да бъдат през 1861 г. е монтиран и първият орган намерени и достъпни. Ето списък на в страната. Катедралата е център някои от тях: на богатата католическа традиция Древният римски театър е един от в тази част на държавата и добавя малкото добре запазени и поддържани различно неокласическо докосване до паметници на културата. Той датира архитектурата на града , от управлението на император Траян (98-117 г.) и има 7000 места. На Синагогата е идеален пример за някои от стените на театъра има еврейската религиозна архитектура, някои доста интересни надписи на обогатена от влиянието на османската древногръцки. Той е част от по-големия култура. Тя е построена в част от римски град, който включва Одеон и Стария град на Пловдив, където стадион. Римският театър е един от еврейският квартал е бил разположен символите на Пловдив и е включен в преди два или три века. списъка на световното културно наследство на ЮНЕСКО. ДЖУМАЯ Джамия е типичен османски средновековен религиозен храм. Намира Старият град определено е един от се в центъра на Пловдив. Вътрешната най-добре запазените и поддържани украса на джамията е доминирана от културни забележителности в България. типични османски проекти, които Той е обявен за исторически резерват и изобразяват различни стихове от е напълно обновен и поддържан през Корана. 70-те и 80-те години на миналия век. Позволява на посетителя да усети Има и други места в Пловдив, където различните етапи на развитие на можете да усетите неговия дух и Пловдив - от древността до периода на уникална атмосфера. Например има Освобождението до днес. Старият град интересни открити пространства, Пловдив е един от най-посещаваните спортни и развлекателни зони, както и и популярни исторически обекти красиви паркове и квартали в близост в България и все още е център на до центъра на града. Препоръчахме някои богата културна дейност. Всяка сграда от тях: носи своя чар и характер и съчетава различни елементи от различни епохи и Капана се намира в непосредствена архитектурни влияния. близост до центъра на града и до Стария град. Това е очарователен Св. МАРИНА катедрален храм на квартал с малки живописни улички Пловдивската православна Епархия. и малки магазини, пълни с ръчно Църквата е издигната в средата на изработени сувенири, картини и бижута. 15-ти век, но изцяло е достроена в Архитектурата е много подобна на тази периода 1851 - 1856 г. Катедралата на Стария град, така че е идеалното “Св. Марина” е забележителна със място за разходка и пазаруване. своята уникална дървена камбанария и стенописите, изобразяващи ЦЕНТЪР е идеална възможност 8 overview

The Dzhumaia Mosque is a typical The Cathedral of St. Louis is maybe Ottoman medieval religious temple. It is the biggest Catholic temple in Bulgaria. It located in the center of Plovdiv The inside was constructed in 1850 and also the first decoration of the mosque is dominated organ in the country was installed inside it by typical Ottoman designs some of in 1861. The cathedral is the natural centre which depict various verses from the of the rich Catholic tradition in this part of Quran. Recently it has become object of the state and adds a different neoclassical controversy between the Muslim religious touch to the architectural scenery of the communities in Bulgaria and some political city. circles and NGOs.

The Synagogue Cion is a perfect example of the Jewish religious architecture enriched from the influences of the Ottoman culture. It is built in a part of the Old Town of Plovdiv where the Jewish quarter was located two or three centuries ago. The Synagogue has a richly painted dome, an exquisite Venetian-glass chandelier and all the surfaces are covered with elaborate geometrical designs.

There are some other places and sites in Plovdiv where you can feel its spirit and unique atmosphere. For example there are interesting open spaces, sports and recreational areas and also beautiful parks and quarters nearby the city centre. We recomended some of them:

The Kapana area is located very close The City Centre is an ideal option for to the city center and to the Old Town. It a walk in all times of the day. Most of the is a charming neighborhood with small buildings are well preserved and renovated picturesque streets and little shops full and create wonderful scenery for a beautiful of handcrafted souvenirs, paintings and day out. The main street “Alexander jewelry. The architecture is very similar to Battenberg” is pedestrian zone and most this of the Old Town so it is a perfect place of the major luxury shops, restaurants and for a walk and shopping. cafeterias are situated there. overview 9

www.visitplovdiv.com

за разходка по всяко време на деня. статуята на руския цар Александър Повечето от сградите са добре II и паметникът на съветския войник запазени и обновени и създават Альоша. прекрасен пейзаж. Главната улица “Александър Батенберг” е пешеходна Откритото пространство между зона и повечето от големите луксозни хотел “Рамада” и Централната поща магазини, ресторанти и кафенета са е предпочитан маршрут за разходка разположени там. на много от жителите на Пловдив. Често тази част от голямата НЕБЕТ ТЕПЕ е едно от многото пешеходна зона в центъра на града, е исторически места в Пловдив, което домакин на различни големи концерти заслужава вашето внимание. Това е и други събития. Наблизо има много археологически обект, където можете ресторанти и кафенета, където да намерите останките от древна можете да опитате добра храна или да цитадела, датираща от тракийската се освежите. и гръцката епоха. Над хълма има два красиви православни храмове - “Св. Международният търговски панаир Константин и Елена” и “Св. Неделя”. е друга забележителност на града, която заслужава внимание. Основана БУНАРДЖИКА е вторият по височина е през 1892 г. и оттогава панаирът хълм от седемте, сред които градът се постепенно се превръща в най-голямото е развивал през вековете. Жителите на изложбено място в Югоизточна града предпочитат хълма Бунарджика Европа. С изключение на търговските за малки екскурзии в природата и за изложения, които панаирът организира други развлекателни дейности. Има всяка година, има много други и два паметника с голямо значение - културни, търговски и обществени 10 overview

Nebet Tepe is one of the many historical spaces in Plovdiv which deserves your The International Trade Fair is attention. It is an archeological site where another landmark of the city which deserves you may find the remnants of an ancient attention. It was founded in 1892 and since citadel which dates back to the Thracian then the Fair has gradually become the and the Hellenic Era. Down the hill there biggest exhibition venue in Southeastern are two beautiful Orthodox temples-St Europe. Except the trade shows which the Constantine and St. Elena and St. Nedelya. Fair hosts every year there are a lot of other cultural, commercial and public activities which take place there on a permanent basis. It has 17 pavilions, vast parking lot and is a prime example of the modern architecture from the 80’s.

The Bunardzhika Hill is the second highest hill of the seven ones among which the city has evolved through the centuries. The city inhabitants prefer the Bunardzhika Hill for small getaways in the nature and for The Rowing Channel is one of the other recreational activities. There are also biggest and most elaborate athletic facilities two monuments of major significance-the ever built in Bulgaria. Its length is 2200 statue of the Russian Tzar Alexander II and meters and it is designed to meet all the the monument of the Soviet soldier Alyosha, requirements for international rowing a vast reminder of the period of Communist championships. rule in Bulgaria.

The Lauta carting track is outside the The open space between Ramada Hotel and city center. Many young people visit the the Central Post Office is a preferred route place in order to experience high levels of for a walk by many of the citizens of Plovdiv. adrenaline when racing the small carting Very often this part of the large pedestrian vehicles which slightly resemble the bolides area in the city center hosts various major of a Formula 1 Championship. If you are concerts and other happenings. Nearby not so fond of extreme experiences you there are a lot of restaurants and cafeterias just may watch the amateur races among where you can have a good meal or a the drivers or play some pool games in the refreshment. recreational premises nearby. www.visitplovdiv.com overview 11 www.visitplovdiv.com

дейности, които се провеждат там наподобяват булидите на шампионата постоянно. Разполага със 17 павилиона, от Формула 1. Ако не сте любители огромен паркинг и е отличен пример за на екстремните преживявания. Тук съвременната архитектура от 80-те се намира и Детската железница - за години. радост на децата.

Гребният КАНАЛ е една от най- Панаир Пловдив големите и най-сложни спортни От 1892 г., когато Пловдивският съоръжения, построени някога в панаир започва своето съществуване, България. Дължината му е 2200 метра Пловдив се утвърди като топ и е проектиран така, че да отговаря дестинация за бизнес туризъм. Два на всички изисквания за международни пъти всяка година панаирът с неговите шампионати за гребане. 19 павилиона събира бизнес пътници от цял свят, като им предлага много ПАРК ЛАУТА - КАРТИНГ е извън центъра възможности за бъдещи професионални на града. Много млади хора посещават и предприемачески контакти и за мястото, за да се забавляват или се качествено забавление. състезават с малки колички, които леко

www.visitplovdiv.com 12 overview

exposition “Unification of Bulgaria 1885” was opened here. MUSEUMS &GALLERIES On an area covering 1000 sq. m., through authentic items, weapons, photographs and documents are traced back the efforts of Bulgarians in the establishing of Eastern Rumelia as The Second Bulgarian State, their fight for the Unification with Principality of Bulgaria and its military defense - The Serbian-Bulgarian War.

REGIONAL ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM 1, Saedinenie Sq. tel.: 032/ 624 339, tel./fax: 032/ 633 106 Exposition “Book Publishing in Bulgaria www.archaeologicalmuseumplovdiv.org in the second half of 19th and the begin- [email protected] ning of 20th century” Summer working hours /May – October/: 10:00 – 18:00 2, Mitropolit Paisiy Str. Closed: Monday tel.: 032 629 405 Winter working hours /November – April/: 9:30 – 17:00 Summer working hours /April-October/: 9:30 – 18:00 Closed: Sunday and Monday Closed: Saturday and Sunday Day for a free-of-charge visit: Winter working hours /November-March/: 9:30 – 17:00 First Thursday of each month – for students and retirees Closed: Saturday and Sunday Day for a free-of-charge visit: First Thursday of each The Regional Archaeological Museum in Plovdiv is one of month the oldest cultural institutions in Bulgaria. Officially opened The building was built in the mid 19 century and Hristo in 1882, its development passes through the stage of Gruev Danov, the founder of organized book-publishing being archaeological-numismatic collection-office, until it in Bulgaria, lived here from 1869 until his death in 1911. was finally established as Archaeological Museum in 1920. Today, an exhibition dedicated to the history of book- The museum possesses one of the richest collections of publishing in Plovdiv and Plovdiv region is situated here. artifacts and works of human art related to the history of The stages in the development of Bulgarian education Plovdiv District and the Town of Plovdiv – successor to one on the basis of Hristo G. Danov and Dragan Manchov’s of the largest and most important ancient cities on the Balkan publishing activity are traced here. Peninsula – Philippopolis.

REGIONAL HISTORY MUSEUM www.historymuseumplovdiv.com [email protected]

Exposition „Bulgarian National Revival” 1, Tsanko Lavrenov Str. Exposition „The Unification of Bulgaria 1885” tel.: 032 623 378 Summer working hours /April-October/: 9:30 – 18:00 1, Saedinenie Sq. Winter working hours /November-March/: 9:30 – 17:00 tel.: 032 629409 Closed: Sunday Summer working hours /April-October/: 9:30 – 18:00 Day for a free-of-charge visit: First Thursday of each Closed: Saturday and Sunday month Winter working hours/November-March/: 9:30 – 17:00 “Bulgarian Revival” Exposition is set in the house of the Closed: Saturday and Sunday rich merchant of Plovdiv Dimitar Georgiadi, which was Day for a free-of-charge visit: First Thursday of each month built in 1848 and traces the history of Plovdiv during the The building was built in 1885 for the Provincial Counsel period from the fifteenth to the nineteenth century. Rich of Eastern Rumelia. On 19.09.1985 the national museum documentary and photographic material allows guests overview 13 to submerge in the atmosphere of the city’s distant and Srednogorie during the National Revival. Among the past – a time of foreign rule, but also a time of asser- many museum collections, those of brassware, pottery, tion of Bulgarians’ national identity, a time of fight for weapons, shepherds wood-carving, jewelry and church independent Bulgarian education, church and national items, sewn and crocheted laces, costumes from the entire independence. Bulgarian ethnic territory, musical instruments, and urban decor stand out.

REGIONAL NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM 34, Hristo G. Danov Str. Museum Centre of Modern History tel.: 032/626 683 14, Angel Bukoreshtliev Str. www.rnhm.org tel.: 032 628 886 [email protected] Summer working hours /April-October/: 9:30 – 18:00 Summer working hours /May-September/: 9:00 – 18:00 Closed: Saturday and Sunday Saturday and Sunday: 9:00 – 17:00 Winter working hours /November-March/: 9:30 – 17:00 Winter working hours /October-April/: 8:30 – 17: 00 Closed: Saturday and Sunday Day for a free-of-charge visit: First Thursday of each Saturday and Sunday: 9:00 – 17:00 month Day for a free-of-charge visit: First Thursday of each month The building was built in 1895 as officers’ club. From the The museum is the second largest natural history museum beginning of 1905 until 1923 it was a “Public House” in the country, with modern and contemporary styled exhibi- with theatrical company, brass music band, orchestra tions, with enhanced nature conservation idea. The halls of and night school. Today it is a Museum Centre for Con- Geology, Botanic, Invertebrates, Amphibians and Reptiles, temporary History and houses the permanent exhibition Birds and Mammals are on the first floor, and on the ground entitled The Soul of the Japanese Doll - a donation from the Friends of Bulgaria society in Japan. floor are the halls of Fishes, Aquarium and Seabed. The museum presents a freshwater aquarium with an area of 100 sq. m., where over 32 species of ornamental fish and exotic plants are shown. CITY ART GALLERY www.galleryplovdiv.com [email protected]

REGIONAL ETHNOGRAPHIC MUSEUM 2, Dr. Stoyan Chomakov Str. Permanent exposition tel.: 032/625 654; fax: 032/626 328 14 A, Saborna Str. www.ethnograph.info tel.: 032 635 322 [email protected] Summer working hours /May-October/: 9:30 – 18:00 Summer working hours /April-October/: 9:00 – 18:00 Winter working hours /November-April/: 9:00 – 17:30 Closed: Monday Day for a free-of-charge visit: Winter working hours /November-March/: 9:00 – 17:00 First Thursday of each month – for students Closed: Monday The exposition is housed in the building of the Young Day for a free-of-charge visit: Girls’ College, designed and built under the guidance First Thursday of each month – for students and retirees of architect Joseph Schnitter in 1881. It is arranged The exhibition is located in Argir Kuyumdzhiouglu’s beautiful chronologically on two floors. There are over 200 Renaissance house, which was built in 1847 by the master- original artworks, which trace the development of Bul- builder Hadzhi Georgi. Inside of it, there are representations garian art from the National Revival up to present day. of traditional material and spiritual culture of the Bulgarians Prominent authors and characteristic stylistic trends are who lived in the region of Plovdiv, Rhodope Mountains represented here. 14 overview

Icon Gallery 9:00 – 12:30 and 13:00 – 17:30 22, Saborna Str. Closed: Sunday tel.: 032 626 086 Day for a free-of-charge visit: Summer work- First Thursday of each month – for students ing hours /May- Encho Pironkov (born 1932) is from the generation of October/: 9:30 – 12:30 and artists which in the 1960s not only modernized the look 13:00 – 18:00 of the Plovdiv art school, but also of the Bulgarian art. 45 Winter working works donated by the author, covering various periods of hours /November- his creative development are exhibited here. April/: 9:00 – 12:30 and 13:00 – 17:30 Day for a free-of-charge visit: First Thursday of each month – for students The Icon Exposition opened in 1975. It was structured near the Revival Church of St. Constantine and Elena, on top of the round defensive tower of the early Byzantine city wall in the Old Town. Some of the best examples of icons taken from the Gallery’s collection and the Plovdiv Bishopric are exhibited here. They represent the Ortho- Gallery of Temporary Exhibitions dox Christian art in the region of Plovdiv and the entire Southern Bulgaria from the end of the fifteenth century 15, Aleksandar I Str. to the late nineteenth century. tel.: 032 624 221 Summer working hours /May-October/: 9:30 – 18:00 Permanent Expositions „Tsanko Lavrenov” Winter working hours /November-April/: 9:00 – 17:30 and „Mexican Art” Day for a free-of-charge visit: First Thursday of each month – for students 11, Artin Gidikov Str. The exhibition spaces are housed in a building with a tel.: 032/ 628 745 typical urban architecture from the beginning of the 20th Summer working hours /May- century. In the halls on both floors are presented tempo- October/: 9:30 – 12:30 and rary exhibitions relating to the anniversaries of outstand- 13:00 – 18:00 ing Bulgarian artists, as well as the history and problems Closed: Sunday of the country’s cultural life. Exhibitions of foreign art- Winter working hours /Novem- ists, experimental exhibitions and children exhibitions ber-April/: 9:00 – 12:30 and 13:00 – 17:30 are also presented here. Closed: Sunday Day for a free-of-charge visit: First Thursday of each month – for students Tsanko Lavrenov /1896-1978/ was one of the most fa- mous Bulgarian painters, a distinctive natural talent with high erudition, limitless energy and incredible creative imagination. The exhibition includes the artist’s best works. The first floor presents the exposition of Mexican Art – modern Mexican graphic arts, crafts and copies of stone sculpture and ceramics. The exhibits are donated in honor of the 1300 anniversary of the Bulgarian State, and the gallery was opened in 1981.

29, Saborna Str. Old Town Email: [email protected] Phone: 032 622 742 www.philippopolis.com Open: 10.00 - 19.00 Permanent Exposition „Encho Pironkov” Trakart Center & Museum 1, Vasil Kanchev Str. “Archeological” underpass tel.: 032/ 638 055 Phone: +032/ 631303 Summer working hours /May-October/: Cell: +359 882 877080; 9:30 – 12:30 and 13:00 – 18:00 +359 888 304851 Closed: Sunday Everyday: Open: 9.00 - 19.00 Winter working hours /November-April/: www.trakart.org www.facebook.com/cityinfoguides.bulgaria overview 15

ISSN 2367-4717 I FREE GUIDE IN ENGLISH + MAP I Jan - Feb 2017 I ISSUE 16 Your complimentary copy of the Plovdiv City Info Guide is available from hotel rooms, hotel receptions and other public areas at the following top-class Hotels:

HOTELS OTHERS êêêêê Airport Plovdiv Car Hire Companies Hebros Tourist Information Center Plovdiv Grand Hotel Plovdiv Galleries Top Restaurants and Bars êêêê Allience Travel Agencies Imperial Mall Plovdiv Leipzig Casinos Landmark HolidayInn SUBSCRIPTION Maritsa DIPLOMATIC MISSIONS: Ramada Plovdiv Austria Netherlands Sankt Peterburg Canada USA

COMMERCIAL AND ECONOMIC SECTION OF THE EMBASSY OF THE REPUBLIC OF BULGARIA IN: FRANCE, GERMANY, GREECE, KAZAKHSTAN, MONTENEGRO, MACEDONIA, ROMANIA, SERBIA, SLOVAK REPUBLIC, SLOVENIA, THE NETHERLANDS, UK

ISSN 2367-4717 I FREE GUIDE IN ENGLISH + MAP I APRIL - MAY 2014 I ISSUE 1 ISSN 2367-4717 I FREE GUIDE IN ENGLISH + MAP I JULY - AUGUST 2014 I ISSUE 2 ISSN 2367-4717 I FREE GUIDE IN ENGLISH + MAP I SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2014 I ISSUE 3

For Advertising, Bulk Orders and Subscriptions: 0896 717 227; www.cityinfoguides.com 0896 717 225; [email protected] www.facebook.com/cityinfoguides.bulgaria 16 Accommodation

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RAMADA PLOVDIV Trimontium

HEBROS 2, Kapitan Raycho Str. www.bgprincess.com [email protected] Phone: 032/ 605 000; 032/ 605 009 51, Konstantin Stoilov Str. (Old Town) Beds - 290, Double - 154, Appartments - 4 [email protected] Phone: 032/ 260 180 hotel-residence www.hebros-hotel.com Beds - 21 Double - 5 Appartments - 3 Single - 1

ALLIANCE 4003 Plovdiv, 109 Vasil Levski Str. Phone: 032 20 33 33, Fax: 032 20 33 34 7, Vasil Aprilov Blvd. [email protected]; [email protected] www.holidayinn.com Phone: 032/ 646 333 www.hiplovdivhotel.com www.alliancehotel.com Double Rooms - 67, Executive Rooms - 7 Beds - 50, Rooms - 25 Accommodation 17

Room Service TV in All Rooms Minibar in All Rooms Airconditioned Rooms Restaurant Bar Business Facilities Swimming Pool Fitness Facilities Casino Hotel Parking Credit Cards WiFi Handicape Room with good view

At the Holiday Inn Plovdiv we have 67 comfortable non-smoking guest rooms that are distinguished by their contemporary style and fresh colors. Either on business or leisure, enjoy your stay and relax in our air- conditioned rooms with excellent sound insulation. We know how important it is to feel energized and enthusi- astic all day long. To make sure you sleep well at night LEIPZIG at your disposal is our famous “Pillow Menu” – a choice of four different pillows with various levels of firmness. 70, Ruski Blvd. www.leipzig.bg [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Phone: 032/ 654 000; 032/ 654 404 Beds - 96, Single - 19, Double - 31, Appart.- 10

MARITSA

42, Tsar Boris III Obedinitel Blvd. www.victoria-group.net/ hotelmaritza/bg/welcome.htm [email protected] 1, St. Valentin Str. Regatta Venue Phone: 032/ 952 735 www.landmarkhotel.bg Beds - 146, Rooms - 111 [email protected] Rooms: Double 52 We are pleased to present to you the newest four- stars boutique hotel in Plovdiv - Landmark Creek. It offers a wonderful combination of the tranquil- ity of the nature and the dynamic of the urban environment. Landmark Creek Hotel is a prime first-class option for organizing various special events, seminars, conferences, workshops, team-building, combined with relaxation and spa treatment. SANKT PETERBURG There are 52 rooms with spectacular views, garden- restaurant, lobby bar, spa and fitness center, swim- ming pool, conference rooms, panoramic bar. 97, Bulgaria Blvd. Our services include car rental, airport transfers, www.sphotel.net travel agency and airline tickets sales. [email protected] We are expecting you! Phone: 032/ 951 830 Single - 38, Double - 38, Studios - 100, Suites - 14 18 restaurants

Please note: the price guide is an approximate dinner cost s - up to 25 lv per person; ss - up to 40 lv per person sss - over 40 lv per person

ITALIAN Parking - yes All credit cards accepted!

Pizzaria Verdi ”Petko Petkov” s 41, Petko Petkov Str. Cell: 0882 660 242 Open: 11.30-23.00 every day Seats: 75; Garden 80 26, Otets Paisiy Str. s All credit cards accepted! (+35932) 623711 [email protected] Pizzaria Verdi ”Mall Plovdiv” s www.gustobg.com 88, Perushtitsa Str. fl.3 Open: 10.00 - 24.00h Cell: 0882 660 118 All credit cards accepted Open: 11.30-23.00 every day Seats: 200 All credit cards accepted! Summer garden: 60 seats Parking Place: Yes www.verdi.bg Gusto serves original Italian pizza and pasta, as well as salads and appetizers from authentic Mediterranean cuisine by original recipes. The Chefs cook for you best beefsteaks and quality European desserts. Daily lunch menu.Outdoors seating.

INTERNATIONAL & SUSHI For two decades the lovely small pizza place called Verdi turned into a fortress of the tradi- tional Italian cuisine. In our Italian restaurants we use original products of excellent quality, which guarantees the unique taste of the dishes in all pizzerias “Verdi”. “Verdi” is the ideal place both for business meetings and family events, which will turn into an unforgettable experience.

Pizzaria Verdi “Radio&TV” s 19, Nayden Gerov Str. Cell: 0882 660 220 Open: 11.30-23.00 every day Torro GrandE ss Seats: 75; Garden 120 66, Capitan Raycho Str. All credit cards accepted! Phone: +359 885 39 99 39;+359 32 s 39 99 39 Pizzaria Verdi ”Trakia” [email protected] Trakia 142 block www.torrogrande.com Cell: 0882 660 156 Open: 07:00 - 02:00 Open: 11.30-23.00 every day Torro Grande is the place to “meat in style” Seats: 75; Garden 90 in Plovdiv. Located in the heart of the city restaurants 19

Torro Grande is a must landmark for all those MEXICAN who cherish classy comfort and excellent cuisine. The unique environment creates an attractive and engaging space that tickles the senses of all guests. The service of personal attitude and individual approach adds to the quality of the cooking and inspires one com- plete experience that is modern, delicious and fun. The menu offers a variety of unique Sombrero RESTAURANT s dishes for every taste, from salads and 5, Dunav Str. (Royal City Center ) homemade bread, to sushi, fish and meat. Phone: +359 882 354 394; (32) 336179 65A, Svoboda Blvd. Phone: +35932 33 08 78 Open: 10:00 - 24:00 Everyday www.sombrero-bg.com Sombrero is unique place in the variety of thematic restaurants in Plovdiv – the first Mexican restaurant in the city. You can taste fajitas, burritos, quesa- dilla, nachos and much more exotic meals from all over Mexico. You can taste some sort sangria, tequila or authentic cocktails. There are traditional Mexican food as well as typical Bulgarian cuisine in the lunch menu. Special menu for children. 20 Useful Numbers

AIRPORT INFORMATION INTERNATIONAL FAIR PLOVDIV Phone: 032/ 60 11 27 information 37, Tzar Boris III Obedinitel Blvd. www.plovdivairport.com Phone: 032/902 141, 032/902 432 Plovdiv Airport is situated 12 kilometres www.fair.bg southeast of Plovdiv (near the main road to RAILWAY Assenovgrad). Central Railway Station Plovdiv BUS LINE 46, Hristo Botev Blvd. South Bus Station Phone:032 622 729;032 632 720 47, Hristo Botev Blvd. www.razpisanie.bdz.bg;www.bdz.bg Phone: 032/ 626 937 www.hebrosbus.com DIPLOMATIC MISSIONS There are mainly buses to and from Sofia, www.mfa.bg/en Burgas, Varna, and destinations South of Plovdiv. Bus lines-Istanbul, Bursa and Eu- rope. Rodopi Bus Station 1, Makedonia Blvd. Phone: 032/ 657 828. www.hebrosbus.com Anyone can do it! The bus station is right next to the central railway station. Every Saturday, at top places, in top cities: Free, organized running for everyone! North Bus Station The pleasure - to run for pleasure! 2, Dimitar Stambolov Str. Phone: 032/ 953 705. www.hebrosbus.com There are buses to over 40 destinations North of Plovdiv. It is the only station rela- tively far from the centre. 5kmrun.bg CAR RENTALS cityinfoguides.com CITYINFOGUIDES.com

Plovdiv City ® Info Guide

Publisher: AMATI BULGARIA Ltd. Sofia, 53, Nikola Vaptsarov Blvd. & 02 439 02 22/ 23 Design: AMATI BULGARIA fax: 02 439 12 25 On the Cover: Old Town e-mail: [email protected] Sofia Airport: & 029 459 217 Print: Janet 45 Ltd. INFO CENTERS For Advertising, Bulk Orders and Subscriptions: Municipality of Plovdiv (before 10th of the preceding month, please!) Tourist Information Cell: 0896 717 225 1, Central Sq., tel./fax:+359 32 656 794, E-mail: [email protected] Phone: +359 32 620 229 facebook.com/cityinfoguides.bulgaria 1, Dr. St. Chomakov Str. (The Old Town), All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be repro- Phone: +359 32 620 453 duced in any form or by any means without prior permission. [email protected] Monthly circulation: 20 000 www.visitplovdiv.com THE OLD TOWN MAIN STREET

ISSN 1312 7179 I FREE GUIDE + MAP I NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2017 I ISSUE 55 overview 1 City Info Guide VARNA Your free copy

4 Overview Varna City ® Info Guide Publisher: AMATI BULGARIA Ltd. 12 Accommodation /АМАТИ БЪЛГАРИЯ ЕООД/ Advertising & Sales: Rumyana Georgieva 18 Restaurants Cover: St. St. Constantine & Helena, Aqua House Design: AMATI BULGARIA Ltd. 20 sHOPS Print: Janet 45 For Advertising, 22 niGHT LIFE Bulk Orders and Subscriptions: (before 10th of the preceding month, please!) Cell: +359 896 717 225 24 useful Numbers E-mail: [email protected] facebook.com/Cityinfoguides.Bulgaria CITY All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be INFO reproduced in any form or by any means without prior GUIDES permission. Circulation: 20000 .com

visit.varna.bg THE OLD PLISKAoverview 3 ДВОР НА КИРИЛИЦАТА Тhe Old Pliska is an unique cul- tural and historical entertain- ment complex, the only one in the world. It is the place where the Cyrillic alphabet returns. It is located in the city of Pliska - the capital of the First Bulgarian State in the period from 681 to 893, in just 10 minutes distance from Madara Rider and 5 mins away from the Old town and the Basilica. Комплекс Стара Плиска – единствен, уникален културно–исторически развлекателен комплекс в света, мястото, където кирилските букви се завръщат. Намира се в град Плиска, столица на Първата българска държава в периода от 681 до 893г. На 10 минути от Мадарския конник и 5 минути от стария град и Базиликата.

ДВОР НА КИРИЛИЦАТА OLD PLISKA Тел.: +359 897 949 718 Phone: +359 897 949 718 [email protected] [email protected] дворнакирилицата.bg dvornakirilicata.bg dvornakirilicata.bg Open: Mon - Sun: 09 – 18 Работно време: Photo – FREE Пон – Вос : 09 — 18 часа Tourist guide – FREE Снимка – безплатно Enter - 4 BGN Екскурзовод – безплатно Children - For Free Вход — 4лв деца до 7 год. – безплатно 4 overview overview 5

c 6 overview c q

STARA PLISKA COMPLEKS c c

Комплексът е нов и предоставя на гостите всички удобства за приятна и спокойна почивка (дворът на кирилицата, странноприемницата, боилските бани ). Странноприемницата разполага с 23 двойни стаи с разтегателен фотьойл, 1 стая с три легла и 2 разтегателни фотьойла и 3 VIP стаи. Ресторантът разполага със 130 места, ВИП зала - 10 места, с отделен вход и санитарен възел. Лятна градина - 150 места, с водопади, плодови дръвчета и билки. Предлагаме подбрано меню от вкусна, здравословна храна от българска, арменска, руска и грузинска кухня. На разположение на гостите на комплекса са Боилските бани. Те предлагат финландска сауна, сауна с хималайски соли, римска парна баня, горещо джакузи, топъл басейн, масажна и релакс бар.

+359 897 097 267 [email protected] www.stranopriemnica.bg overview 7

Тhe “Old Pliska” is an unique cultural and historical entertainment complex, the only one in the world. It is the place where the Cyrillic alphabet returns. It is located in the city of Pliska - the capital of the First Bulgarian State in the period from 681 to 893, in just 10 minutes distance from Madara Rider and 5 mins away from the Old town and the Basilica. The complex is new and offers all the comforts for a pleasant and relaxing holiday (the Cyrillic court, the inn, the boil baths). The inn has 23 double rooms with pull-out armchair, 1 triple room with 2 pull-out armchairs and 3 VIP rooms. The restaurant has 130 seats, a VIP hall - 10 seats with a separate entrance and a bathroom. Summer garden - 150 seats with waterfalls, fruit trees and herbs. We offer a selection of delicious healthy food from Bulgarian, Armenian, Russian and Georgian cuisine. All dishes are prepared with fresh homemade products purchased from local producers. The guests of the complex can enjoy the Boil Baths. There are Finnish sauna, Himalayan salts sauna, Roman steam room, hot Jacuzzi, hot pool, massage, relax bar and two spacious dressing rooms.

For reservation:+359 897 097 267 [email protected]

+359 897 097 267 [email protected] www.stranopriemnica.bg 8 overview

популация 475 074 Population 475 074 Площ 3,819 кв. Км Area 3,819 sq. km Главен град-Варна (морска столица) Main city-Varna (sea capital) ВАРНА РЕГИОН VARNA REGION се намира в североизточната част на България is located in the northeastern part of Bulgaria and и достига до Черно море. Районът включва 12 reaches to the Black Sea. The region includes 12 общини. municipalities. Земя Land В пейзажа се доминират хълмисти релефи. The landscape is dominated by hilly landforms. The Климатът е умерено континентален, с влияние на climate is moderate continental, with Black Sea influence Черно море по крайбрежието. Вътрешните валежи along the coastline. Inland rainfalls do not occur very не се срещат много често и летата обикновено often and summers usually see dry spells. The prevailing виждат сухи заклинания. Преобладаващата vegetation is deciduous. The area of Kamchia River растителност е широколистна. Районът на mouth is a dense forest reserve with rare plant species устието на река Камчия е гъста горска резерват being preserved. с запазени редки растителни видове. People, Towns And Culture Хора, градове и култура The geographic distribution of the population is strongly Географското разпределение на населението е uneven. The settlement agglomeration formed by Varna, силно неравномерно. Селищната агломерация, Beloslav, Devnya and Provadia has concentrated over формирана от Варна, Белослав, Девня и Провадия, 75 percent of the residents in the region. The process of е съсредоточена над 75% от жителите на urbanization has been very active especially in the last региона. Процесът на урбанизация е много 30 years and the urban-rural ratio is 82:18. The ethnic активен, особено през последните 30 години, а съотношението между градовете и селските composition is as follows: 371 048 Bulgarians, 30 469 райони е 82:18. Етническият състав е както Turks, 13 432 Roma and 5 638 of other ethnic groups. следва: 371 048 българи, 30 469 турци, 13 432 Varna (population 334 870) is an ancient town of роми и 5 638 други етнически групи. centuries-old traditions. Today it is a large industrial, Варна (334 870 души) е древен град с вековни transport and academic center, as well as an international традиции. Днес тя е голям индустриален, sea tourism hot spot. The towns surrounding Varna- транспортен и академичен център, както и Beloslav, Devnya and Provadia have obtained in the международен морски туризъм. Градовете около last 50 years a typical industrial urban scenery and Варна - Белослав, Девня и Провадия са получили atmosphere, whereas Dolni Chiflik and Vulchi Dol are през последните 50 години типичен индустриален specialized in agriculture. градски пейзаж и атмосфера, докато Долни Чифлик и Вълчи Дол са специализирани в селското стопанство.

NOW WE PRESENT CHATEAU DES BERGES Wine tourism in Bulgaria is gaining increasing interest both from tourists - Bulgarians or foreigners. In the last 20 years a wide variety of wine grape varieties is launched, which you can see while you cross the country. In each issue we will present you a wine cellar and the opportunities for tasting, accommodation and relaxation.In the attached map to the edition you can find other objects from the Wine Map of Bulgaria. Представяме ви Шато Де Берже Виненият туризъм в България набира все по-голям интерес както от туристи българи, така и от чужденци. През последните 20 години стартира богато разнообразие от винени сортове грозде, което можете да видите докато прекосявате страната. Във всеки брой ние ще ви представяме по една винарна и възможностите за дегустации, настаняване и релакс. В приложената карта към изданието можете да намерите и други обекти от Винената карта на България. overview 9 10 overview Symbols of Varna The Festival and Congress Center

The Festival and Congress Center - Varna is created in plays for children, humorous shows for adults and 1986 and situated in the heart of Varna, at the entrance educational plays for students. of the Sea Garden. Тhе center is the place for the most Open: 10:00-17:00 prestigious events in the field of art, culture and indus- Address: 4, “Dragoman” Str. try which among artistic festivals is home to numerous Phone: +359 52 607 844 congresses, conferences with international participa- tion, scientific meetings and seminars. The Festival and Congress Center - Varna became the THE ART GALLERY VARNA founder of the International Film Festival “Love is Folly” - the only international award film festival organized on the territory of the country. Some of the main events are: the Festival of the Bulgarian Film – “The Golden Rose”, the Festival of the European film co-productions, the International Music Festival Varna Summer, the Theatre Festival of Varna, the International Ballet Festival and others. Address: 2, “Slivnica” Blvd., Phone:+359 52 685 214 The Art Gallery has been founded in 1944 and it is situated in the heart of the city with 10 halls with an The Palace of Culture and Sports area of 1,300 square m. The Gallery is housed in a unique Gothic-style building that in the past was a secondary school for boys. The gallery organizes permanent and visiting exhibitions of various Bulgarian and foreign artist. Open: Tue-Sat: 10:00-17:00, Closed: Mon Address: 1, “Lyuben Karavelov” Str. Entry: 2 BGN, Photography is allowed.

The Palace of Culture and Sports is complex with 6 Varna Open-Air Theatre training and competition halls, recreation center, two gyms, press conference center, and modern shopping and business center. This is the place for numerous international and local sports events. The palace it’s just 1 km away from the Varna center and the resorts as well. The hall is convenient for performing training exercises and competitions in: basketball, volleyball, handball, boxing, judo, karate, gymnastic and table tennis. Address: 115, „Kniaz Boris I” Blvd., Phone:+359 52 647 781 State Puppet Theatre Varna Open Air Theatre Varna is located in the central part of the Sea Garden. In the summer it hosts many The Puppet Theatre is placed in a building in the heart national and international events, such as Opera in of the city center since 1985. The puppet theatre was the Summer Theatre, Varna Summer Festival and founded by Georgi Saravanov – famous puppeteer, various music concerts. It is the venue of the Varna stage designer and director. He established a group of International Ballet Competition since its inception beginning actors, part of which have graduated from a in 1964. musical school. The theatre offers performances for Address: Sea Garden Varna audience on different age – classical and contemporary Phone: +359 52 647 781 overview 11

LED lights, 52 water pumps and a modern computer system. This incredible show, created by more than 2, 000 color combinations, spectacular water jets and all- time music hits, became a favorite attraction for all the people in Varna, both residents and tourists. There are special weather vanes and instruments which monitor the environment conditions, in order to regulate water flow and ensure the security of citizens and visitors of the city. During the day, the fountain still works, but without lights so the view is definitely more impressive The Sea Garden is Varna’s largest, oldest and best during the night when the lights are turned on. known park, also said to be the largest landscaped park in the Balkans. It is located along the city’s coast, next to the center and it is important attraction and a national monument of landscape architecture. There you can visit the Natural Science Museum, the Naval Museum, the Copernicus Astronomy Complex planetarium, the Zoo and the Terrarium. Here one can find the only Dolphinarium and Aquarium in the country.

Further from the center, a granite monument com- memorates the Battle of Varna, which took place in 1444. Here 30,000 Crusaders were waiting to sail to Seaside Park - this is the biggest park in Varna, Constantinople when they were attacked by 120,000 situated by the beach. Its construction was com- Turks. The Polish King Ladislas was killed in a bold menced in 1878. Within the park area one can find the attempt to capture the Ottoman Sultan Murad. After his Seaside Baths, the Naval Museum, the Natural Science heroic death the nickname Varnenchik was attached to Museum, the Aquarium (with a unique exhibition of his given name. The subsequent retreat foreshadowed water organisms – mainly Black Sea, freshwater and Christendom’s general retreat before the advancing tropical fish species), the Astronomical Observatory Ottomans. and the Planetarium which organizes observation ses- sions for its visitors, the Dolphinarium with an amusing show where the main stars are the most intelligent water creatures on Earth-the dolphins, etc.

The singing fountain on Independence

Thermae The 2nd century thermae (warm baths) are the main part of the remains of the largest Roman public build- ing in Bulgaria. During this century a large part of this historical site has been revealed by the archaeologists. The Sea Garden Thus a very thorough and exact description of this important landmark has been achieved, though some The singing fountain on Independence square in Varna parts of the building remain hidden under the streets is the tallest fountain in Bulgaria with its impressive nearby. Coming across an extensive ancient building water jet of 41m height and beautiful combination of amidst the streets and houses of a modern city is not lighting and sounds. The water landmark includes 400 unusual in Bulgaria, but it is always a delight. 12 overview overview 13 14 Accommodation

room service restaurant business facilities room with good view TV in all rooms bar swimming pool hotel parking minibar in all rooms handicape fitness facilities credit cards airconditioned rooms WiFi casino all-inclusive

VARNA The hotel is one of the preferred places in Varna for organizing all kinds of corporate events such as: conferences, lectures, seminars, business meetings. With its six conference halls (14 to 130 seats), the hotel is the perfect place for all kind of events. What’s more in spite of its pronounced business style Hotel Aqua Varna is a great choice for an unforgettable summer holiday. Hotel Aqua Varna is located in the city center - between the central shopping area and the harbor. The railway station and numerous office buildings and banks are located nearby, making the hotel the preferred place for business trips and business trips. With its proximity to the southern beach, the central pedestrian area and many shopping venues, the hotel is the right choice for a great holiday in the city.

33, Sveti Nikola Phone: +359 52 300 039 Fax: +359 52 301 122 [email protected] www.dallas-bc.bg Suites: 16 DALLAS Residence hotel is a tranquil oasis, located within the urban area of Black Sea’s major Bulgarian city Varna, only 300 m. away from the shore. Set in a private estate, among stunning gardens, this boutique hotel turns personal service into philosophy and it makes every guest to feel like at home.

INTERHOTEL CHERNO MORE

33, Slivnitsa Blvd. 12 A, Devnya Str. Phone: +359 52 61 22 35 – 38; Phone: +35952639090 +359 52 61 22 40; Fax: +35952631390 +359 61 24 33 [email protected] [email protected] www.varna.aquahotels.com [email protected] Double 70, Suites 8 www.chernomorebg.com Business Hotel Aqua Varna is a modern urban hotel with Renovated Delux Rooms: 70; Standrat Double a unique AQUA vision. Rooms:131 ; Apartment: 1 Accommodation 15

Located on the pedestrian promenade in the heart of the city Interhotel Cherno More /translated Black Sea/ has become a long time ago a historical landmark for all the visitors and the citizens of Varna. The Sea Garden entrance and the beach area are only a few meters away from the hotel. The hotel complex offers 38 fully renovated DELUX rooms and 112 standard double rooms with affordable accommodation - all of them comfortably furnished. Each hotel room has a balcony with wonderful panoramic views of the city and the Black Sea. Here the guests will find a Black Sea Casino, a panoramic restaurant Panorama on the top floor , panoramic cocktail bar, à la carte restaurant Largo, café bars, bowling, billiards, sports club and Golden Tulip Varna conference facilities with three modern air-conditioned conference halls suitable for all types of business or corporate events. A secured indoor parking is also 3A, Hristo Botev Blvd., 9000 Varna, Bulgaria available against additional payment. Phone: + 359 52 683 000 [email protected] goldentulipvarna.com

Reverence Hotel Re

58, Osmi Primorski Polk Blvd. Phone: +359 52 631 831/2 Fax: +359 52 460 570 Cell: +359 897 921 661 [email protected] www.reverence.bg Double rooms: 15, Suites: 3, Junior suites: 3 Hotel Boutique Splendid Hotel Reverence is situated in the business center of Varna opposite the Varna Municipality. It’s next to the Festival and Congress Center, the Archeological 30, Bratya Shkorpil Str. museum and “The sea” Art Gallery. In 10 mins. walk Phone: +359 52 68 14 14 the guests may reach the Palace of Culture and Sport, Single 2, Double 15, Double(Twin) 3, Suites 4, Studios 4 the Aquarium, the Historical Museum, the Enthnographic The Boutique Splendid Hotel is a classic, elegant and Museum, the Cathedral and other places of interest. stylish place, situated in 100-years old magnificent renovated building. It is located in the heart of Varna city and it’s close to the pedestrian shopping street, the Opera House and the Theatre of Varna. The Boutique Splendid hotel offers an excellent combination of comfort and retro luxury with its single, double, twin rooms, suits and studios. All of them are cozy, air-conditioned and with TV and minibar - suitable both for work and rest. During their stay, guests of the hotel may use the quality services such as: room service, restaurant, lobby bar and fitness. The guests of the hotel use the parking lot 16 Accommodation

room service restaurant business facilities room with good view TV in all rooms bar swimming pool hotel parking minibar in all rooms handicape fitness facilities credit cards airconditioned rooms WiFi casino all-inclusive st. st. constantine and helena BYALA

SPA Hotel Romance Splendid Byala Beach Resort

Phone: +359 52 385 400 5, Primorska str., Byala town, Varna region Single 5, Double 47, Suites 4, VIP Studio 1 Phone:+35951435006, +359893014450, The four-star Romance Splendid & SPA Hotel is located [email protected] www.byalabeachresort.net in the Saints Constantine and Helena resort. It is situated Suites: 125 within a national park and it is surrounded by clean air and mineral springs. The hotel is remarkable with its own Byala Beach Resort is a 4-star hotel situated on the Black Sea Coast. We provide beautiful sea view, unique style, its coziness and the professional attitude. high quality service and unforgettable experience for The single and double rooms, apartments and VIP- our guests. apartments are all air-conditioned, with minibars, TV and Хотел Бяла Бийч Резорт е 4 звезди и е разположен great views. Here the guests can enjoy various facilities на брега на морето. Предлагаме на нашите гости such as: restaurant and winery, casino, hotel parking, прекрасна морска панорама, висококачествено fitness and SPA. The place offers the perfect conditions обслужване и незабравим престой. for business trips, vacations and recreation by the sea, meetings, conference events, and wedding receptions.B ALCHIK

Lighthouse Golf and Spa Resort The luxurious, five- star Lighthouse Golf & Spa Hotel is the newest addition to the resort and it is scenically pitched on a spectacular plateau on top of the white cliffs with breathtaking views over the glittering blue Black Sea. Balchik 9600, road E87 (5 km after Balchik) Reservations: +359 52 401 400, The hotel provides elegant and stylish accommodation, various sport [email protected]; and recreational facilities, pampering services and entertainment www.lighthousegolfresort.com/bg which contribute to your true 5-star vacation in Bulgaria. Accommodation 17

Villas Dolce Vita One day you will find a place far away from home, where you will feel so happy, that you won’t leave it – it’s called villas “Dolce Vita”! The two separated villas are surrounded by the green grass, the crystal water pool and the barbeque zone. Each villa has 3 conceptual bedrooms with double beds and spacious living room with dining area. The panoramic fireplace gives a complete look of the fabulous Villa “Industrial”: +359 899 945 787 and secluded courtyard. We are sure, that you could feel the Villa “Vintage”: +359 888 403 666 combination of rare harmony between the soft sun rays, the fresh [email protected] www.villasdolcevita.com sea air and the tranquility of home comfort.

Hotel „Chateau des Berges“ Chateau des Bergers Hotel is located at the foot hill of Preslav Mountain where the calmness and tranquility provide the opportunity for complete relaxation in direct contact with nature. The classical architecture mixed with modern comfort of the Chateau offers to its guests a new and different experience combined with the flavor of high-class Bulgarian wine. The hotel offers 3 spacious studios and 16 deluxe double rooms with great views, all equipped with a minibar, a cable TV, air-conditioning Ovcharovo, Targovishte County and internet connection. 6, Avram Topalov Str. The staff of the SPA complex will take care of the complete relaxation Phone: +359 879 120 999 of the customers. The main therapies include the wine products from www.chateaudesbergers.com the hotel wine. The restaurant offers fresh eco products from the area [email protected] and an incredible view of the village of Ovcharovo and the vineyards.

COMPLEX “OLD PLISKA” The complex is new and offers all the comforts for a pleasant and relaxing holiday (the Cyrillic court, the inn, the boil baths). The inn has 23 double rooms with pull-out armchair, 1 triple room with 2 pull-out armchairs and 3 VIP rooms. The restaurant has 130 seats, a VIP hall - 10 seats, with a separate entrance and a bathroom. Summer garden - 150 seats with waterfalls, fruit trees and herbs. We offer a selection of delicious, healthy food from Bulgarian, Armenian, Pliska Town Russian and Georgian cuisine. All dishes are prepared with fresh For reservation: homemade products purchased from local producers. The guests Phone: +359 897 097 267 of the complex can enjoy the Boil Baths. There are Finnish sauna, Open: 9:00 - 19:00 Himalayan salts sauna, Roman steam room, hot Jacuzzi, hot pool, [email protected] massage, relax bar and two spacious dressing rooms.

Ethnographic complex “Krivini” Ethnographic complex “Krivini” is a recreation of the typical trade street from the Bulgarian Renaissance period, perfectly fitting into the natural resources of the area. The main purpose of the complex is to present its visitors the traditional customs and crafts of the regional folklore during the Bulgarian Revival. Within the complex you have access to: A tavern; A cafe; An enoteca offering a wide variety of Bulgarian wine; A weaving workshop; A tower; Guest houses. LOCATION: It is located 10 km away from the main road Varna - Burgas near Stara Oryahovo or 45 km away from Varna and 60 km away from Sunny Beach. Етнографски комплекс Кривини е реплика на търговско- занаятчийска улица от възрожденския период, идеално вписваща се в естествените дадености на местността. Основната цел е да представи и запознае посетителите с традиционния бит Reservations: +359 878 370 001 и занаяти от регионалната фолклорна област по времето на българското възраждане. На територията на комплекса [email protected] са разположени: механа; kафене; енотека, с български вина; facebook.com/etnokomplexkrivini тъкачница; кула; къщи за гости. ЛОКАЦИЯ: Намира се на 10 км GPS; 42.956221, 27.684047 от главен път Варна - Бургас при с.Старо Оряхово или на 45 км от Варна и 60 км от Слънчев бряг. 18 restaurants

BULGARIAN

staria chinar staria chinar 154, Macedonia Str. 11, Preslav Str. Reservation: +359 878 514 683 Reservation: +359 876 520 500 www.stariachinar.com www.stariachinar.com Welcome to one of Varna’s favourite places ‘Staria Chinar’. Situated in a house in the old part of the city. The Beautifully snugg under the old tree and only 5 atmosphere is extremely welcoming and ‘transports’ minutes away from the city centre, this is a typical you to the last century. This is the place where you authentic Bulgarian restaurant, warmly awaiting you will find delicious meals and tasty treats, acompanied with incredibly delicious homemade meals, BBQ- by hospitality which is what Staria Chinar is famous cooked on charcoal and delicious treats prepared in for and associated with. Another delightful and the oven. The wine selection is amazing, there is plenty aromatic addition - Serbian grill prepared by Master to choose from. In addition to all that the staff always Chief Slavisha. makes sure that you will recive exelent care. Take advantage of booking in advance on telephone. Take advantage of booking in advance on telephone.

WINERY

Chateau des Bergers Wine Restaurant Ovcharovo, Targovishte County 6, Avram Topalov Str. staria chinar Phone: 0879 120 999 Port Varna www.chateaudesbergers.com Come and try the taste of summer with restaurant [email protected] “Staria Chinar” – Port Varna. We welcome you with Open: 9:00 – 23:00 delicious traditional food and other recipes from the Black Sea region, served with professionalism and The restaurant offers fresh meats and vegetables, pleasant mood. With us you can feel the famous combined with handmade bread and homemade wine. Bulgarian hospitality and try the best pleasures, offered Chateau des Bergers guests can try cow, sheep and by our sea. buffalo milk and cheese as well as cottage cheese from the local dairy. Apart from the good food the tourists Memorable tastes, professional chefs and refreshing can participate in the wine tasting and buy different sea breeze are just a sample of all that we can serve types of wines offered by Chateau des Bergers Winery. and propose. The wine tasting is a short sommeliers course which is Take advantage of booking in advance on telephone. done by a specialist. restaurants 19 20 SHOPS

D & G Computers Specialized computer service Гоя дубльонки и кожа Repair of computers, laptops and telephones GOIA leather Shop 21, Doctor Jelyazkova Str. Varna, 2, Musala Str. Phone: 052/303 999, 0885/303 999 Tel: +359 52610770 [email protected] Working Hours – 10:00 – 19:00 www.dandg.bg Добро пожаловать в магазин ГОЯ-оазис люкса и качество! D & G Computers is specialized in selling and support of Наши болгарские дубльонки и куртки удовлетворят computer and office equipment, assembling computers самых капризных клиентов. Здесь можете купить по and building local networks. Professional counseling and фабричньие ценьй шапки, тапки, перчатки, ремни. Кроме service is part of our daily routine constantly. For 24 years большая скидка, каждой клиент получает подарок! D & G Computers has been providing to its customers with safe and sequire work on their computer networks GOIA Shop is an oasis of luxury and high quality leather clothing. and devices. We at D & G Computers work for the needs The Bulgarian leather coats, jackets and the unique goods can of each customer and we are with them until the problem please even the most demanding customers. Here the clients is resolved. Our motto is “Quality higher than the price”. can also buy hats, slippers, gloves and belts. Apart from the big discounts, each customer receives a compliment - a gift from the store! The shop accepts credit cards.

“Bilki Bilki” Shop for healthy life L’Erbolario 1, “Sheinovo” Str. Tel: 0887 863 837 ITALIAN NATURAL COSMETIC [email protected] Varna, 5, Shipka Str. www.cherenoreh.eu Phone: +359 884 601 630 www.facebook.com/bilki.bilkii/ Open: 10:00 – 19:00 Working hours: Mon – Fri: 10:00 – 19:00 [email protected] Sat: 10:00 – 15:00, closed on Sunday facebook.com/erbolario.bg “Bilki Bilki” is the perfect place for lovers of a healthy L’Erbolario is the number one natural cosmetics in Italy. lifestyle. The store offers more than 300 herbs, herbal The brand offers its clients clean from harmful ingredients blends and herbal extracts, healing remedies, bio face, body and hair products. They are not tested on products and super foods. “Bilki Bilki” also has an animals. The main goal of the brand is to provide safe alternative medicine cabinet specialized in diagnosis and effective products created with respect for nature and treatment of internal diseases, inflammation and and to achieve the ideal balance between the modern many others. cosmetology and the authentic herbal tradition. „Билки Билки„ - Магазин за здравословен живот Бренд предлагает своим клиентам свободный „Билки Билки“ е перфектното място за от вредных ингредиентов продуктов для лица, любителите на здравословния начин на живот. тела и волос. Они не тестируются на животных. Магазинът предлага над 300 билки, билкови Основная задача бренда является обеспечение смеси и билкови екстракти, лечебни средства, безопасных и эффективных продуктов, биопродукти и суперхрани. „Билки Билки“ разполага созданных с уважением к природе и достичь и с кабинет за алтернативна медицина, идеального баланса между самым современной специализиран в диагностика и лечение на косметологией и подлинной травяной традицией. вътрешни болести, възпаления и други. SHOPS 21

31, Tsaribrod Str. Phone: +359 52 / 602 597 Phone: +359 52 / 602 598 [email protected] ELITIS Shop Working time: 8:00-20:00 3, Nikola Simov Str. ELITIS Mega Store is a trading chain with nearly 20 years Phone: +359 52 / 503 420 of experience in thse wholesale and retail of perfumery, Market Chataldja cosmetics, detergents and other products. The shops 49, Chataldja Str. have a wide range of products for your beauty, health and Phone: +359 52 / 927 442 cleaning products for your home. All commodoties are Phone: +359 88 / 9911718 from established and famous world brands. Elitis offers [email protected] more than 3000 fragrances, over 1000 shades of hair dyes and more than 300 products designed for hygiene 59, Drin Str. and care for your baby at very affordable prices! Phone: +359 52 / 953 125 At Elitis you can buy a wide range of over 2500 decora- Phone: +359 52 / 953 125 tive cosmetics from the world famous L’Oreal, Maxfactor, [email protected] Manhattan, Maybelline, Bourjois and etc.

More than 400 vacation homes Повече от 400 ваканционни жилища at the Black Sea coast разполагаме на брега на Черно море If you are considering booking a holiday cottage or Ако планирате да резервирате ваканционна apartment, in Bulgaria then NOVASOL has the right вила или апартамент в България тогава holiday rental for you. NOVASOL is one of the largest НОВАСОЛ може да ви предложи богат избор holiday rental providers and we have a great selec- от ваканционни жилища. НОВАСОЛ е един tion of properties in Bulgaria and throughout Europe. от най-големите компании на ваканционни We have over 40 years’ experience with the holiday имоти и има голям избор на имоти в България rental market, so you are in safe hands when booking и в цяла Европа. Ние имаме над 40 години with us. At our web page www.novasol.com you can опит в пазара на ваканционни имоти, така read some highlights from our destinations. че сте в сигурни ръце за резервация при нас. На нашата уеб страница www.novasol. com можете да прочетете някои акценти от Phone: +359 893 50 30 13 нашите дестинации. www.novasol.com 22 overview overview 23 24 Useful Numbers

ACCOUNTING SERVICE REAL ESTATE

бул. Владислава Варненчика 112, офис 6 г. Варна, Болгария, 9000 +359 887 08 08 07 DOLLY BLUE +359 52 69 54 54 Accounting services and consulting Varna, 32, Ovcho Pole Str., Office 2 LUXIMMO — лучшая элитная недвижимость в www.dollyblue.bg Whats Болгарии и за рубежом на продажу и в аренду. Phone: +359 885 334 994 Viber App Бренд LUXIMMO является частью корпоративной Phone: +359 897 665 775 группы, имеющuй ряд компаний, успешно работающих в сфере недвижимости и туризма Legal protection; Registration administrative service for — консалтинг и посредничество в сфере элитной companies; Accounting services for companies at full недвижимости, инвестиций и бизнеса. subscription; Taxes protection; Customs representation; Intermediation for real estate’s deals; Insurance; Professional LUXIMMO - one of the most luxurious properties to translation services into 30 languages. sale and rent in Bulgaria and abroad. Brand Luximmo is part of a corporation which has successfully Юридическая защита, регистрация компаний; Полный developed property and touristy services - consulting, абонемент бухгалтерского обслуживания, ежегодное co-operation, business investment. закрытие счетов компаний; финансовые консультации; налоговая защита; таможенное представительство; Посреднической недвижимость; страховки; HEALTHy Профессиональные услуги перевода на 30 языков.

EDuCATION & fun

Kangen Water 79, Slivnitsa Blvd., “Raw Paradise” Restaurant www.enagiceu.com [email protected] SUN HOUSE For Sell: +359 897 889 406 Office: 5, Petar Beron Str. 21, Dragan Tsankov Str. Phone: +359 877 750 275 Kangen is an antioxidant, ionized, alkaline, restructured and www.sunhouse.bg micro-clustered water. Kangen water contains a number of SUN HOUSE educational centre for children from 5 to 11 years old. antioxidants, which neutralize harmful free radicals. Kangen water is produced by the certified medical Japanese device Adventurous Summer Academy. Preparation for school. English that keeps all the valuable minerals needed for the body. The and Russian language tuition. Sunny teachers and happy children. water is first filtered and removes chlorine, heavy metals SUN HOUSE - развивающий центр для детей с 5 до 12 лет. and lead. Then the water is ionized, its molecular structure is Мир общения, знаний, приключений и спорта. Подготовка changed and its pH is increased and the amount of antioxi- для школы. Летняя академия. Интенсивное изучение dants is higher as well. The water supports proper metabo- английского языка. lism and triggers the self-healing. It is recommended when suffering from: lack of energy and being tired, headaches, TAXI joint and muscle pain, blood pressure problems, digestive problems, allergies, diabetes and various skin problems. Антиоксидантная, йонизированная, щелочная, переструктурированная и микрокластерная Детоксифицирует тело и замедляет процесс Order Triumf Taxi by phone: старения. Гидратирует тело шесть раз быстрее +359 52 644 444 Нейтрализует кислотность в организме и +359 52 644 644 регулирует кислотно - щелочный баланс в теле. www.triumftaxi.com Легче проходит через мембрану клетки. Улучшает общее состояние организма. Добро пожаловать Triumf Taxi is the largest taxi company in Varna. к нам. Попробуйте вoду Канген и здравословную Our 650 cars will take you to every point in Bulgaria пищу на указанном адресе. Позвоните, забронируйте comfortably, quickly, safely and at the best price. в удобное время и ознакомтесь детально со Triumf Taxi guarantees: - Correct drivers; - Low prices; свойствами воды, пробуя нашу здравословную еду. - Clean and safe cars; - Service at European level. Бул Сливница 79 в ресторане Сырой РайKangen Water

Bulgaria in Brief 1 2 Bulgaria in Brief

WELCOME TO BULGARIA Religion: Orthodox Average summer temperatures: 26° to 30°C Welcome to one of the oldest European states Average winter temperatures: -5° to 5°C with 6000-years old gold treasures, a center Time zone: GMT +2 of ancient civilizations, a country that hosts the Country dialing code: 00 359 sanctuary of the mystical singer Orpheus and Internet country code: .bg gave to the Slavonic people the Cyrillic alphabet. Capital: Sofia Bulgaria is the only one country in Europe Currency: Bulgarian Lev (BGN) that hasn’t changed its name since it was first established. The Bulgarian army has never lost a single flag in battle. The flag of Bulgaria is a HISTORY tricolor consisting of three equal-sized horizontal The Bulgarian state was founded circa 681 as bands of (from top to the bottom) white, green a union of the new-settled Proto-Bulgarians, of and red. It was first adopted after Russo-Turkish seven Slavonic tribes who have already settled War (1877-1878), where Bulgaria regained inde- this territory and with the inclusion of some pendence. The current flag was re-established smaller ethnical groups (Thracians and others). with the 1991 Constitution of Bulgaria. The state was ruled by its founder Khan Asparuh, the leader of the proto-Bulgarians and the first Bulgarian capital was Pliska. The Thracians were a tribal society who inhabited a vast area in Central and Southeastern Europe. They were well-known in the Ancient world for making filigree gold and silver jewelry. The great Homer described in his masterpiece Iliad a Thracian king, having “the biggest and the most handsome horses I have ever seen, /whiter than snow and swifter than the winds/and a chariot Coat of arms of Bulgaria finely wrought with silver and gold.” Important & significant events 681 – The Bulgarian state acquired political recognition from the Byzantine Empire.

718 – The Bulgarian Khan Tervel has stopped the Arabic invasion to European continent. 855 – The Cyrillic alphabet by the brothers Cyril and Methodius. It corresponded perfectly to the phonetic riches and needs of the Slavonic- Bulgarian language. As of today more than 250 million people in Europe and Asia use the Cyrillic alphabet for their national languages. Details Armiger - Republic of Bulgaria 864 – During his rule Knyaz Boris I converted the Adopted - 1997 state to Orthodox Christianity. Crest - Crown of theSecond Bulgarian Empire Escutcheon - Gules, a lion rampant crowned 893-927 – During the Golden Age of Tzar Simeon Supporters - Two lions rampant crowned The Greatest the First Bulgarian State stretched Compartment - Two crossed oak branches gradually from Transylvania in the north, to the with fruits Aegean Sea in the south, from the Black Sea in Motto - Съединението прави силата the east and to the Adriatic Sea in the west. At this time Bulgaria gradually reached its cultural “Saedinenieto pravi silata” and territorial apogee, when it developed into “Unity makes strength” the cultural and literary center of Slavic Europe, as well as becoming one of the largest states FACTS & FIGURES in Europe. Population: 7 364 570 Area: 110 993 sq. km 1018 – The Bulgarian army fell to Byzantines and Language: Bulgarian after that the Bulgaria State had been conquered by the Emperor Vassileios II. Bulgaria in Brief 3

Накратко за България История Добре дошли в България, една от най- Българската държава е основана около старите държави в Европа със златно 681 като съюз между новозаселилте съкровище на 6000 години, център се прабългари, както и седем славянски на древни цивилизации – страната, племена, които вече са населявали тези в която се намират светилището територии и с включването на на мистичния певец Орфей и дала на няколко по-малки етнически групи (траки славяните кирилицата. България е и други). Начело на държавата е бил единствената трана в Европа, която основателят й Хан Аспарух, водачът на не е сменила името си, откакто е прабългарите, а първата българска столица създадена. Българската армия никога не е Плиска. Траките са били племенен строй, е загубила флагът си в битка. Знамето който е обитавал долините на Централна и на България е трикольор, състоящ Югоизточна Европа. се от три равни хоризонтални ленти Те са били известни в древните времена от (от горе на долу) бяло, зелено и като майстори на златни и сребърни червено. За първи път е приет след бижута. Великият Омир описва в шедьовъра Руско-Турската Освободителна война си „Илиада“ тракийският цар, който (1877-1878 г.), с която България притежава възвръща независимостта си. „най-големите и най-красите коне, които Настоящето знаме бе възстановено с някога съм виждал,/ по-бели от сняг и по- Конституцията на България от 1991 г. бързи от вятъра/ и колесница, изработена от фино сребро и злато.“

Важни и значими събития 681 – Българската държава получава политическо признание от Византия

718 – Българският Хан Тервел спира Арабското нашествие на европейския континент

855 – Братята Кирил и Методи създават българската азбука (кирилицата). Тя кореспондира перфектно с фонетичните нужди на славяно-българския език. Днес над 250 милиона души по света в Европа и Азия използват кирилицата, за да пишат на своите национални езици.

864 – По време на управлението си княз Борис Факти I приема православното християнство като Население: 7 364570 официална религия. Площ: 110 993 кв. м. Официален език: български 893-927 – По време на Златния век на Цар Официална религия: Православно Симеон Велики Първата Българска държава християнство се е разпростирала до Трансилвания на север, Средна температура през лятото: до Бяло море на юг, до Черно море на изток 26-30°C и до Адриатическо море на запад. По това Средна температура през зимата:- време България достига своя културен и 5-5°C териториален апогей, същевременно се Времева зона: +2 часа превръща в културен и литературен център Телефонен код: 00 359 на Славянска Европа, както и става една от Интернет домейн: bg най-мащабните държави в Европа. Столица: София Валута: Български лев 1018 – Българската армия пада от Византия 4 Bulgaria in Brief

1185 – The Second Bulgarian State was estab- when Bulgaria peacefully ousted the Communist lished at Veliko Tarnovo, reinstated the borders of Party leader Todor Zhivkov. the First Bulgarian Kingdom and a second Golden Age began during which Bulgaria expanded its 1989 – The establishment of a multi-party system borders to the shores of Black, Aegean and and the begging of the Bulgaria’s democratiza- Adriatic seas. tion.

1396-1878 – The country was under the rule of 12.07.1991 – The new Constitution of the the Ottoman Empire. Republic of Bulgaria was adopted and it pro- claimed the country as a parliamentary republic. 1878 – Liberation from the rule of the Ottoman Empire. Establishment of the Third Bulgarian 29.03.2004 – Bulgaria joined NATO. State. 01.01.2007 – The country became a member of 1878-1879 – As the result of the Treaty of Berlin, the European Union. the Bulgarian State was divided in two territories. An autonomous Principality of Bulgaria was cre- Borders through the centuries ated, between the Danube and the Stara Planina Bulgaria has expanded twice its borders to the range, with its seat at the old Bulgarian capital of shores of Black, Aegean and Adriatic seas. Veliko Tarnovo, and including Sofia. An autono- Bulgarian Empire is a term used to describe two mous Ottoman province under the name of periods in the medieval history of Bulgaria, during Eastern Rumelia was created south of the Stara which it acted as a key regional power in Europe Planina range, whereas Macedonia was returned in particular, often rivaling Byzantium. Here is the under the sovereignty of the Sultan. picture of Bulgarian borders in our days.

06.09.1885 – The establishment of the National Holidays Independence of Bulgaria. On that date Eastern 1 January – New Year’s Day Rumelia rejects the rule of Sultan and announced 3 March – National Holiday /The liberation of that joined the Principality of Bulgaria. Two the Bulgarian land from the Ottoman Empire is days later, the Prince Alexander Battenberg First celebrated on this day/ signed a manifesto to approve the accession of 1 May – Labour and International Worker’s the field and taken to be titled as a future prince Solidarity Day of Northern and Southern Bulgaria. 6 May – St. George’s Day (Gergyovden) and the Bulgarian Army’s Day 1944 – The After Communist Party, led by Georgi 24 May – Bulgarian Education, Culture and Dimitrov, took the power as a result of almost Cyrillic Alphabet Day bloodless coup d’état and proclaimed Bulgaria 6 September – Unification Day for a “People’s Republic” in 1946 after a contro- 22 September – Independence Day versial referendum. 1 November – Day of the Bulgarian Enlighteners (Holiday for all educational institutions) 10.11.1989 – The Communist regime ended 24 December - Christmas Eve 25, 26 December – Christmas Days Bulgaria in Brief 5

и в резултат България пада под властта на 12.07.1991 – Новата Конституция на Византската империя и управлението на Република България е приета и България е император Василий II. провъзгласена за парламентарна република.

1185 – Втората Българска държава е 29.03.2004 – България се присъедини към основана Във Велико Търново, като възвръща НАТО. границите на Първото Българско Царство, а през втория Златен век България стига до 01.01.2007 – Държавата стана член бреговете на Черно, Бяло и Адриатическо наЕвропейския съюз. море.

1396-1878 – България е под османска власт Граници през вековете България е разширявала два пъти границите си до бреговете на Черно, Бяло и 1878 – Освобождение от османска власт. Адриатическо море. “Българската Империя” Създаване на Третата Българска Държава. е термин, използван за да опише тези два периода от средновековната история на 1878-1879 – Като резултат от Договора България. В тези периоди държавата е в Берлин, българската държава е разделена имала ролята на ключова за региона. На тази на две части. Създадено е автономно снимка са показани границите на съвременна княжество на България, между Дунав и България. Стара планина със седалище в старата българска столица Велико Търново, включително и София. Автономна османска провинция под името Източна Румелия е създадена на юг от Стара Планина, докато Македония е върната под суверенитета на султана.

06.09.1885 – Обявяване на съединението на България. На тази дата Източна Румелия отхвърля управлението на султана и обявява, че се присъединява към Княжество България. Два дни по-късно княз Национални празници Александър I Батенберг подписва манифест, 1 януари – Нова Година с който одобрява присъединяването на 3 март – Национален празник / Освождението териториите и се обявява за княз на на българските земи от Османската Северна и Южна България. империя. 1 май – Ден на труда 1944 – След като комунистическата 6 май – Гергьовден и Ден на Българската партия, водена от Георги Димитров, взима армия властта в резултат на почти безкръвен 24 май – Ден на българската писменост и преврат и България е провъзгласена за култура “Народна република” през 1946 г. след спорен 6 септември – Ден на Съединението референдум. 22 септември – Ден на Независимостта 1 ноември - Ден на българските будители 10.11.1989 – Комунистическият режим (празник за всички образователни приключва, когато България мирно институции) отстранявава лидера на комунистическата 24 декември – Бъдни вечер партия – Тодор Живков. 25, 26 декември – Коледа 1 Ноември - Ден на Будителите 1989 - Създаване на многопартийната 24 Декември - Рождество Христово система и начало на процеса по 25, 26 Декември - Рождество Христово демократизаци на страната. 6 Bulgaria in Brief

Black Sea Coast

Black Sea Coast Ski Resorts Bulgarian sea resorts offer excellent accommo- The winter season has a lot to offer to the tour- dation at five, four, three, and two-star hotels, ists. The largest and most developed ski resorts both seasonal and working all year round. They in Bulgaria are Bansko, Borovets and Pamporovo. also provide a rich variety of sports and fun The facilities are being constantly renovated activities. The following Bulgarian sea resorts while the prices in Bulgaria remain considerably were distinguished with the prestigious Blue lower than in other competitive countries. The Flag Award: Roussalka, Albena, Golden Sands, capacity of the winter resorts increases gradu- Riviera, Sunny Day, Elenite, Nessebar Beach, ally. A total of 199 km of slopes are included in Sunny Beach, Pomorie Beach, Duni, and the Bulgaria. The ski resorts in Bulgaria reach up to International Youth Center in Primorsko. Various 2560 m. The mountain areas provide excellent harbors and ports provide opportunities for conditions for different sports, e.g. ski mountain- yachting, surfing, water skiing, scuba diving, eering, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing etc. motor driving. During the summer the mountains offer oppor- tunities for rock climbing and caving in the 4300 caves (12 are supplied with electricity).

Eco Tourism Adventure Tourism In the recent years eco and rural tourism in Adventure tourism in Bulgaria is gaining strong Bulgaria successfully competes with similar momentum because all regions of the country activities in other European countries. The are equally suitable for high adrenaline thrills. stay in a Bulgarian village provides a unique In the mountains you can enjoy visiting incredi- opportunity to submerge in a traditional envi- ble caves in the rocks, climbing amazing peaks ronment and lifestyle, which spans over the and flying in the skies with a paraglider. Some ages. Just imagine magical views, charming of our famous resorts like Bansko, Borovets villas, guest houses and family hotels, organic and Pamporovo offer plenty of opportunities to food, hospitable local people, over 600 mineral practice winter extreme sports too. springs, the scent of the rose oil and you will gain only a glimpse of what awaits you in the Bulgarian country side. Bulgaria in Brief 7

Ски курорти Еко Туризъм Зимният сезон има много какво да предложи В последните години еко и селските туризъм на туристите. Най-големите и развити в България успешно се конкурира с подобни ски курорти в България са Банско, Боровец и дейности в останалите европейски държави. Пампорово. Съораженията е модернизират Възможността да се потопите в традиция и непрекъснато, докато цените в България бит, които са се съхранили с векове. Просто си остават сравнително ниски за разлика от представете магични гледки, чаровни селца, други страни. Капацитетът на зимните къщи за гости и семейни хотели, натурална курорти значително се е увеличил. Общата храна, гостоприемни местни жители, над дължина на пистите в България е 199 км. 600 минерални извора, миризмата на розово Някой от курортите достигат височината масло и ще усетите само частица от това, от 2560 м. Планинските райони редлагат което ви очаква на село. отлични възможности за различни спортове, като ски, сноуборд, биатлон и др. През лятото пък планините са перфектни за практикуване Приключенски туризъм Приключенския туризъм в България печели все на скално катерене и пещернячество, тъй повече хора. В планините можете да посетите като в страната има 4300 пещери. невероятни скални пещери, или да изкачвате Черноморското крайбрежие величествени върхове. Летене с парапланери е Българските морски курорти предлагат все по предпочитано екстремно преживяване. отлични условия за настаняване в пет, Някои от най-известните курорти като четири, три и двузвездни хотели, които Банско, Боровец и Пампорово предлагат работят, както по време на сезона, а част много възможности за практикуването на от тях и целогодишно. Те още разполагат зимни спортове. България е малко страна, с разнообразие от спортни и забавни но е благословена с величествена природа и атракциони. Следните български морски предлага уникални възможности за много курорти са отличение с престижното видове туризъм. Умереният климат прави отличие син флаг: Русалка, Албена, Златни България перфектна дестинация по време на пясъци, Ривиера, Слънчев ден, Елените, четирите сезона. Девствената красота на Несебър бийч, Слънчев бряг, Поморие бийч, природата, артефактите от древни култури Дюни и Международния младежки център са предпоставка да преживеете незабравими Приморско. Много пристанища разполагат с мигове. възможност за сърфинф, водни ски, гмуркане, катаране на джет или плаване с яхта.

BOZHENTSI 8 SPA & WELLNESS

SPAMineral waters& WELLNESS and SPA resorts in BULGARIA

Kyustendil and many others. Afterwards the Romans who conquered these lands built their Roman baths and they continued the tradition of using the waters for large SPA centers. There are more then 1 600 springs, situated mainly at the mountains foothills. Nowadays the closest settlements to the mineral water resourc- es are rebuilt as modern SPA resorts that have a lot to offer and that attract many tourists because Bulgaria is one of the few countries in the world of the healing powers of the water. The average which can be pointed out because of its variety temperature of the springs in Bulgaria ranges and richness of mineral waters. The Bulgarian from 37 to 50 ºC. Another advantage is also the territory boasts over 700 mineral water deposits. low levels of mineralization of the waters, which, Therefore the country wins the fame of one of in addition to being suitable for the treatment and the first SPA destinations in Europe. All mineral prophylaxis of a number of diseases, has many waters are well-known for its healthy and treat- healthy properties as a drinking water. ment’s properties, the qualities of which are at first discovered by the Thracians. The Thracians If you are looking for a place for your SPA and have built their repositories for water treatment wellness vacation, read the following lines where near the thermal springs. This led to the estab- we will introduce you to one of the most popular lishment of cities like Sofia, Hissarya, Sandanski, destinations.

Sandanski: Known as the sunniest town in Bulgaria, Sandanski is situated at the foothill of the southwestern part of the Pirin Mountains. The typical climate with Mediterranean influence combined with healing mineral springs is recommended for the prevention of diseases of the respiratory tract, the musculoskeletal system and the peripheral nervous system. There are over 80 springs in the area with a water temperature between 42 and 81 ºC.

Devin: Situated in the mystic Western Rhodopes, Devin is a wonderful balneo town. The clean moun- tain air and the delicious local cuisine are guarantee for a truly relaxing vacation. The resort is recommended for treatment of diseases of the musculoskel- etal system and the nervous system. SPA & WELLNESS 9

Hissarya: Just another 40 km away from Plovdiv is located another modern SPA resort. In the past, Hissarya was a great Roman metropolis, famous for its 16 natural mineral springs. Ancient Roman ruins surround the city in nowadays and they still give it an unforgettable charm. The mineral waters can be used for drinking and water treatment of gastrointestinal diseases, renal and urological diseases, biliary diseases and diseases of the musculoskeletal system etc.

Bankya: The tranquil town of Bankya boasts 40 mineral springs. As it is part of the Sofia region, this is a perfect opportunity to combine the visit to the capital with a time for relaxation and rehabilitation. Bankya is situated at the foothool of Lyulin Mountain, only 17 km away from Sofia. The mineral waters here are suitable for the treat- ment of cardiovascular diseases.

Velingrad: With its 80 mineral springs and hundreds of options for accom- modation Velingrad has won the tittle: “SPA capital on the Balkans”. This SPA destination is characteristic for its ben- eficial impact on the pulmonary and musculoskeletal system, which improves the condition of patients with neurological and gynecological problems and helps in the treatment of kidney, liver and gastrointestinal diseases. We do recommend you to combine your stay in the city with a visit to Kleptuza Park and its two lakes, a karst source and centuries-old pine forests.

Other destinations on the SPA and wellness map of Bulgaria are Stara Zagora, Haskovo, Kyustendil, Varshets, Kostenets, Narayanski Bani, Sapareva Banya etc. Wherever you prefer to stay, you will not regret it. 10 SPA & WELLNESS

SPAМинерални & извориWELLNESS и СПА курорти в БЪЛГАРИЯ България е една от малкото страни по света, които се отливачват с разнообразие и богатство на извора, разположени предимно минерални води. С над 700 находища в подножието на планините. на минерална вода страната Средната температура на безспорно си печели славата на изворите в България варира от една от първите СПА дестинации в 37 до 50 ºC. Друго предимство е и Европа. Всички те са добре известни ниското ниво на минерализация на със своите лечебни свойства, водите, която освен че е подходяща чиито качества първи са открити за лечение и профилактика на от траките. Траките построили редица заболявания, е полезна и за своите бани за водолечение в консумация. близост до термалните води. Това Ако търсите място за вашата довело до възникването на градове спа и уелнес ваканция, прочетете като София, Хисаря, Сандански, следващите редове, в които ще ви Кюстендил и др. След тях представим някой от по-полулярните римляните, които завладели тези дестинации. земи, построили своите римски Велинград: терми и продължили традицията Със своите 80 минерални извора в изграждането на големи и стотици възможности за балнеоложки центрове. настаняване Велинград си е Днес най-близките селища до спечелила прозвището „спа минералните води са преустроени столица на Балканите“. Тази в модерни спа курорти, които балнео дестинация е профилирана имат много какво да предложат за лечение на белодробни и ставни и привличат много туристи заболявания, на неврологични и заради лечебните сили на водата. гинекологични проблеми, помага за В България има повече от 1600 бъбречни, чернодробни и стомашно- чревни заболявания. Задължително Vella Hills съчетайте престоя си в града с посещание на парк Клептуза и неговите две езера, карстов източник и вековни борови гори. Сандански: Известен като най-слънчевия град в България, Сандански е разполжен в подножието на югозападните части на Пирин планина. Типичният климат със средиземноморско влияние в комбинация с лековитите минерални извори се препоръчва за профилактика на заболявания на дихателните пътища, опорно-двигателната система и периферната нервна система. В района има над 80 извора с температура на водата от 42 до 81 ºC. SPA & WELLNESS 11 12 SPA & WELLNESS

Девин: за отдих и релакс. Банкя се намира Разположен в мистистичните в подножието на Люлин планина, на Западни Родопи, Девин е прекрасен едва 17 км от София. Минералните балнео град. Чистият планински води тук са подходящи за лечението въздух и вкусната местна кухня на сърдечно-съдови заболявания. обещават една наистина отпускаща Велинград: ваканция. Курортът се препоръчва С 80 минерални извора и стотици за лечение на заболявания на опорно- възможности за настаняване двигателния апарат и на нервната Велинград спечели титлата “СПА система. столица на Балканите”. Тази Хисаря: SPA дестинация е характерна Само на 40 км от Пловдив се за благоприятното въздействие крие друг съвременен спа курорт. върху белодробната и мускулно- В миналото Хисаря е бил голям скелетната система, което римски метрополис, известен със подобрява състоянието на своите 16 естествени минерални пациентите с неврологични и извора. Древните римски руини гинекологични проблеми и помага при обграждат града и до днес му лечението на бъбречни, чернодробни придават незабравим чар. Водите и гастроинтестинални заболявания. могат да се използват за пиене и Препоръчваме Ви да комбинирате водолечение на стомашно-чревни престоя си в града с посещение на заболявания, бъбречно-урологични парк Клептуза и неговите две езера, заболявания, жлъчно-каменни карстов източник и вековни борови болести, заболявания на опорно- гори. двигателния апарат и редица други предзнаначения. Други дестинации от спа и уелнес картата на България са Стара Банкя: Спокойният град Банкя разполага с Загора, Хасково, Кюстендил, 40 минерални извора. Като част от Вършец, Костенец, Наречески Софийския регион, това е перфектна бани, Сапарева баня. Където и да възможност да съчетаете предпочетете да отседнете, няма посещението на столицата с време да съжалявате.

Royal Spa Velingrad SPA & WELLNESS 13 Perperikon

Author - Kiril Valkanov Travel blogger iskamdaletya.com

Perperikon is 272 km /approximately 3 hours drive /in 2 leva for kids. But my suggestion is to book a guide. The the South-East of Sofia, 96 km away from Plovdiv, 367 price for the guide is 30 leva, but without one, your visit will km lm away from Varna and 257 km away from Burgas, be just a walk through the stones, and you will not get what but believe me, no matter where your starting point is, is so special and impressive about Perperikon. the drive is worth enough. The nature in the region is In fact Perperikon is an archeological complex with sacred picturesque and the views that you are going to enjoy megalith Thracian city, ancient monuments and Medieval will be remembered for a long time. Fortress. The city was destroyed in 14th century by the If you are travelling from Sofia or Plovdiv, on the Turks. History has never been something that I’ve been highway you should take the exit and follow the good at, but still I was so impressed from what I’ve seen road to Chirpan, Dimitrovgrad and Haskovo. If you there. The views from the top are breathtaking, but what is are coming from the East, you should take the exit most impressive is that what was just a common forest to Dimitrovgrad and Haskovo when on the highway hill a few decades ago is now a three-floor palace hewn you reach Stara Zagora, into the rocks, a Thracian sanctuary and a huge ancient The best way to visit Perperikon though, is to organize city. Mind-blowing is the fact, that all this started and was a weekend staying in any of the hotels and guest houses established 8000 years BC when even the metal was still not situated on the shores of Kardzhali damn. This way you can known and used by the mankind. A big church sized 100/12 get a relaxing weekend and combine visiting Pepreprikon meters was also hewn almost 3 meters into the rocks. One can and the other very beautiful Nature phenomenona the Stone also witness ancient streets with water system, the throne of Mushrooms and the Stone wedding. the princess hewn into the rocks and the Temple of Dionysius where Alexander of Macedon was foretold that he will conquer If you choose to stay in the Kardzhali region it will be very the world and Octavian was told by a fortune teller that his son easy to reach Perperiokon. It is only 18 km away. You drive by Augustus will found the great Roman Empire. the villages of Skalishte, Zhinzifovo and Chiflik and after you exit Murgovo you take left turn, There are signs everywhere, The guided tour through the ancient city of Perperikon takes so it is hard to go wrong. There is a big parking where you about two hours, but for sure these will be two hours well cam park and buy tickets. The price is 6 leva for adults and spent. Perperikon

ПерпериконПер се намира на 272 км. /приблизителноперикон 3 часа впечатлен от това, което видях там. За красотата на с кола/ югоизточно от София, на 96 км. от Пловдив, на гледките ще говорят снимките, но факта, че до преди 367 км. от Варна и на 257 км от Бургас. Повярвайте няколко десетилетия това е било само един горист ми от където и да тръгнете, изминаването на хълм, а в момента има разкрит вкопан в скалите тези километри ще си струва. Природата наоколо е триетажен дворец и тракийско светилище, а на върха прекрасна а гледките, които се отварят от хълма се е разкрит внушителен по размерите си древен град са запечатват за дълго време в съзнанието. поразяващи. Впечатляващо е, че началото на всичко Ако пътувате от София или Пловдив на автомагистала това е поставено преди около 8000 години, когато „Тракия“ трябва да хванете отбивката за Чирпан, дори металът още не е бил познат на човечеството…. Димитровград и Хасково. Ако пък идвате от морето Изумителни са „Големия храм“ с размери 100/12 м, трябва да слезете от магистралата на Стара Загора който има вкопаване на ръка в скалата достигащо до отново, в Посока Димитровград и Хасково. 4м дълбочина, скалните стълби, както и системата за защита, която включва дори водохранилища, които Най-добрия вариант за посещение на Перперикон обаче е могат да бъдат отпушени в случай на атака, така че да го комбинирате с нощувка в някой от множеството изкачващите се врагове да бъдат отнесени надолу с хотели и къщи за гости разположени по бреговете на водата. язовир Kърджали. Така можете да си организирате един разкошен уикенд, в който освен Перперикон да посетите Разглеждането на Перперикон ни отнема около 2 часа природните феномени Каменните гъби и Вкаменената с едно сериозно изкачване в началото. Тук можете да сватба, които също се намират на около. видите стаята и трона на принцесата, Олтара на Дионис, голямото водохранилище с размери 12/6/6 м Ако сте в района на Кърджали, няма как да се объркате. вкопано директно в скалата, гробница и множество Пътят е ясно обозначен и навсякъде има табели. гробове отновосъщо вкопани в скалите. Тук можете Перперикон се намира на 18 км. (около 20 минути с кола да видите улици, направени преди хиляди години, по от града). Минавате през Скалище, Жинзифово и Чифлик, дължината на които има отводнителни канали. Много а малко след село Мургово отбивате в ляво. Има голям любопитни са местата, където жрица предсказва на паркинг за автобуси и коли. Основният ми съвет - ако Александър Македонски, че ще превземе света, както решите да посещавате Перперикон – вземете си и на Октавиан, че сина му Август ще застане начело екскурзовод ! Входът е 6 лв. за възрастни и 2 лв. за на велика империя. Въобще – забележителност, която ученици. Доплаща се 30 лв за екскурзовод независимо трябва да се види и преживее. от числеността на групата, но ако искате да усетите и да разберете Перперикон, а не само да си направите двучасова разходка из скалите – екскурзоводът е задължителен. На нас ни се падна една мила девойка Дора, която беше компетентна и внимателна, плюс това се съобразяваше със шестте деца (от 4 до 12-годишни), които бяха с нас, за което уверявам ви, се искат здрави нерви понякога. Перперикон е археологически комплекс състоящ се от голямо мегалитно тракийско светилище, паметници от античността и средновековна крепост. По времето на траките, той е свещен скален град и крепост с царски дворец. Унищожен е през XIV век от османските турци. Историята никога не е била силната ми част, но мога да кажа, че бях изключително 16 OVERVIEW

Area 7 748 sq. km Main city Burgas Burgas Region population: 415 817 Burgas REGION Burgas region occupies the farthest southeast part of the country. To the south it borders to the Republic of Turkey, with Malko Turnovo checkpoint being the direct link to Istanbul. To the east, the region reaches the Black Sea coast. The region includes 13 municipalities. Land Burgas city and The landscape is varied and characterized by lowlands with rolling hills and mountains. The climate is beach resortS transitional continental with strong influence of the Black Sea along the coast. There are often droughts The town of Burgas is situated on the Black sea coast, in summer. The mountains are forested mainly by by the Burgas bay, on a flat plain, known as the Burgas deciduous trees, and some evergreen Mediterranean plate. It lies at an average elevation of 17 m above species could be found to the south. The territory of the the sea level. Salt lakes cover the areas south and region contains a number of natural phenomena and north of town. They are a protected territory as part protected sites. The coastline is covered with spacious of the south-migrating birds’ route, also known as Via sand beaches. Pontica. The climate is moderately continental with a clearly expressed sea influence. Summer is usually People, Towns And pleasant and fresh due to the permanent breezes. During the summer air temperatures in the daytime average Culture 26.4°C, and that of the seawater is 24.7°C. The number The region is characterized by a considerably varied of sunny days in the summer varies between 24 and 27 population structure and distribution, In general, migration from all municipalities is directed to the center per month, with an average of 10-11 hours of sunshine of the region - Burgas (pop. 212 902), which is the reason per day. Winter is mild, mostly without any snow. for the town’s growth. Burgas is the country’s major seaport. During the winter season the average air temperature The town is also a cultural center, with established academic is 4.6°C, and that of the water is 7.4°C. Due to the institutions. The coastline is covered with a series of smaller sea influence, autumns here are long and significantly towns of rich cultural and historic heritage, as well as health warmer than in inland regions, while springs tend to be and seaside tourism centers (Pomorie, Nessebar, Sozopol, cold and arriving a month later. Primorsko and others). OVERVIEW OVERVIEW 17

Площ 7 748 кв. Км академични институции . Крайбрежната ивица е Бургас покрита със серия от по-малки градове с богато Област Бургас културно и историческо наследство, както и население: 415 817 здравни и морски туристически центрове (Поморие, Несебър, Созопол, Приморско и др.). РЕГИОН БУРГАС Регион Бургас заема най-отдалечената БУРГАС и морски югоизточна част на страната. На юг граничи с Република Турция, като контролно- курорти наоколо пропусквателен пункт Малко Търново е директна връзка с Истанбул. На изток регионът достига Град Бургас е разположен на брега на Черно море, до брега на Черно море. В района са включени до Бургаския залив, на равниннаместност, 13 общини. известна като “Бургаска плато”. Намира се на средна надморска височина 17 м над морското равнище. Солените езера покриват районите на Земя юг и северно от града. Те са защитена територия Пейзажът е разнообразен. Климатът е преходно- като част от маршрута на птиците, пренасящ континентален със силно влияние на Черно море се на юг, известен също като Via Pontica. по крайбрежието. Има сухо лятото. Планините Климатът е умерено континентален, с ясно са залесени главно от широколистни дървета, изразено морско влияние. Лятото обикновено е а на юг може да се открият някои вечнозелени приятно и свежо, поради постоянния бриз. През средиземноморски видове. Територията на лятото температурите на въздуха през деня са района съдържа редица природни феномени средно 26,4 ° C, а температурата на морската и защитени територии. Бреговата ивица е вода е 24,7 ° C. Броят на слънчевите дни през покрита с просторни пясъчни плажове. лятото варира между 24 и 27 на месец, със средно 10-11 часа слънцегреене на ден. Зимата е мека, предимно без сняг. През зимния сезон Хора, градове и култура средната температура на въздуха е 4.6 ° C, Районът се характеризира със значително а тази на водата е 7.4 ° C. Поради влиянието разнообразна структура и разпределение на на морето, есента тук е дълга и значително населението. По принцип миграцията от всички по-топла от тази във вътрешните региони, общини е насочена към центъра на региона - Бургас докато изворите обикновено са студени и (поп. 212 902), което е причина за ръста на града. пристигат месец по-късно. Бургас е основното пристанище на страната. Градът е и културен център с утвърдени 18 Bulgaria in Brief

АКВЕ КАЛИДЕ Акве калиде е древен град на територията на Бургас. По исторически данни изграждането на първата римска баня тук се е случило през I-II в. по времето на император Траян. През вековете минералните извори са посещавани от много велики владетели, сред които българския хан Тервел и султан Сюлейман I Великолепни. През последните няколко години при разкопки в района на Акве калиде, археолозите установиха наличието на интересни находки – крепостната стена и северния вход към древен град. Разкрита е и уникална за времето си отоплителна система със специални глинени тръби. Към днешна дата изцяло реставрирана е турската баня (хамам) от времето на Сюлейман Великолепни, която е облицована с мрамор и характерната за Ориента керамика. Днес тя представлява действаща музейна експозиция. И в момента продължават археологическите проучвания на мястото, като различни находки разкриват историята на минералните извори през вековете. Bulgaria in Brief 19

AQUAE CALIDAE Aquae Calidae is an ancient city on the terri- tory of Burgas. According to historical data, the first Roman Bath here was built during the rule of Emperor Trayan in 2nd century. The SPA baths were visited by many of the great rulers, among which the Bulgarian Khan Tervel and Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent. The digs at Aquae Calidae in the last few years brought us interesting findings – the city wall and its north gate. A unique for its time heating system was also found with special clay pipes. As of today, the Turkish bath (hamam) dating back to Suleiman’s rule is entirely restored – faced with marble and ceramics, typical for the Orient. Nowadays it is an interesting museum. The archaeological excavations continue nowa- days and different findings reveal the history of the Mineral spring through the centuries. АКВЕ КАЛИДЕ Акве Калиде является древним городом на территории Бургаса. По историческим данным строительство первой римской бани здесь осуществлено во времена императора Траяна во II в. Эти минеральные бани посещались многими великими владетелями, среди которых болгарский хан Тервел и султан Сулейман I Великолепный. В последние несколько лет при раскопках в районе Акве Калиде археологи открыли интересные находки – крепостную стену и северный вход в древний город. Раскрыта и уникальная для своего времени система отопления с помощью специальных глиняных труб. К настоящему моменту реставрирована полностю турецкая баня (хамам) времени Сулеймана Великолепного – облицованная мрамором и характерной для Ориента керамикой. Сегодня там функционирует музейная экспозиция. И сейчас продолжают археологические раскопки, разные находки показывают историю минеральных источников на протяжении веков. Burgas, Vetren Disctr. & +359 56 825 772 GPS Coordinates: 42.60263062, 27.39435196 [email protected] 20 Bulgaria in Brief Bulgaria in Brief 21 22 Accommodation

room service restaurant business facilities room with good view TV in all rooms bar swimming pool hotel parking minibar in all rooms handicape fitness facilities credit cards airconditioned rooms WiFi casino all-inclusive Burgas

Burgas, Lazur, 129 Demotratsia Blvd. phone: +359 56 83 35 35 fax: +359 56 83 35 40 2, Al. Batenberg Str. [email protected] phone: 056 812 345 burgas.aquahotels.com [email protected] Modern city hotel with indoor SPA center with www.hotelprimoretz.bg conference halls for business meetings and Combines discreet luxury, high level of service, events. Spacious luxury restaurant for banquets, unique location, nature, sea, beach, SPA parties and weddings. and wellness, treatment and prophylactics of various medical conditions, body revitalization, modern weight-loss facilities /Non-Invasive Body Liposuction/ and rejuvenation /Needle Free Mesotherapy/, using the healing effect of the Bulgarian healing clay and lye. Different in service and style, the “Grand” of Burgas provides a truly authentic and luxurious experience, transporting LUXOR you in your dream-like home. 27, Bulair Str. phone: 056 847 670 fax: 056 847 671 [email protected] www.luxor-bs.com

nessebar

21, Alexandrovska Str. phone: +359 56 842 610 cell: +359 888 64 64 63 [email protected] www.bulgaria-hotel.com

The 71 m high building of hotel “Bulgaria” is situated in the heart of Burgas. The hotel has 17 VIGO floors, each of them with a spectacular view to 9, Ivan Vazov Str. the Gulf of Burgas or the old town part of the city. phone/fax: +359 554 467 38 The hotel is a popular place for different kind of +359 554 432 82 receptions, company parties and business events. www.hotel-vigo.com Accommodation 23 24 USEFUL NUMBERS company name contacts additional information AIRPORT INFORMATION

Departures: 056 870 248 www.bourgas-airport.com Arrivals: 056 870 272

AIRLINE COMPANIES Bulgaria Air Call Center: 02 40 20 400 For sales and reservations: Phone: 056 870 248 [email protected] [email protected] www.air.bg

Address: Slivnitsa Blvd. 24 www.turkishairlines.com 3rd floor Varna/Bulgaria Phone: +90 850 333 0 849 e-mail: [email protected] BUS LINES

Bus Station South Garov Ploshtad Sq. Ticket Center Karat cell: 0886 100 898 Phone: 056 845 722

Bus Station West 2, Maritsa Str. cell: 0885 754 038

Municipality Bus Station Information desk: 0554 22633 Nessebar Ticket Center: 055 24268 Fax: 0554 22412 CAR RENTALS Sunny Beach, Royal Sun Apart Hotel cell: 0899 855 049; 0899 855 036 9.00 - 17.00 www.hertz.bg Bourgas Airport Phone: 056 870 371, 9.00-18.00 PORT

Port Phone: 056 822 066, 056 822 222 www.port-burgas.bg of Burgas Fax: 056 822 156

Port of Nessebar 8230 Nessebar, Mesembriya Str. phone: 0554 43474 RAILWAY Central Railway Station Phone: 056 845 022 www.razpisanie.bdz.bg INFO CENTER Tourist Hristo Botev Str. /Opera uderpass www.gotoburgas.com Information phone: +359 56 825 772 [email protected] Center +359 56 841 542

EMERGENCY NUMBER & 112 Port of Burgas www.port-burgas.bg

Port of Burgas is one of the major Bulgarian ports. Port of Burgas has been officially opened for services on 18 May 1903. Port of Burgas has deep draught berths with direct access to open sea. The port is a vital link between western and eastern coast of the Black Sea. A Brand New Passenger Terminal has been constructed on the territory of 1500 sq. m. with capacity of 100 000 passengers per year.The first cruise vessel was “Celebrity Constellation”. In 2014 the visiting schedule will be closed in November.

Burgas 8000 1, Knyaz Batenberg Str. phone: (056) 822 222 fax:(056) 822 156 [email protected]