• St. Dimitrii of Basarbovo Monastery - St. Dimitrii of Basarbovo Monastery is a distinctive Bulgarian Orthodox rock-hewn monastery situated near the village of Basarbovo, about 10 km south of Ruse, along the Rusenski Lom River. It is celebrated as Bulgaria’s only functioning rock monastery.

Historical Background

The monastery’s history dates back to the Second Bulgarian Empire (12th–14th centuries), with its earliest recorded mention in an Ottoman tax register from 1431. Its most notable resident was St. Dimitrii of Basarbovo, born in 1685 in the nearby village. He lived an ascetic life in the monastery’s caves and passed away in 1685. Initially buried in the village church, his relics were later moved to Bucharest during the Russo-Turkish War (1768–1774) and are now housed in the Church of Sts. Constantine and Helena, where he is honored as the patron saint of the Romanian capital.

• Arbanasi - Arbanasi is a charming village in central northern Bulgaria, located approximately 4 km from Veliko Tarnovo, the historic capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire. Situated on a high plateau between the Tsarevets and Trapezitsa hills, Arbanasi is famous for its rich history, unique architecture, and well-preserved cultural heritage.

️ Historical Significance

The village’s origins trace back to the 13th century, with some sources suggesting it was established by Bulgarian boyars (nobles) who settled there after the Battle of Klokotnitsa in 1230. The name “Arbanasi” is thought to derive from the medieval Bulgarian word “Arbanas,” meaning “Albanian,” reflecting the settlement’s early inhabitants.

In the 16th and 17th centuries, Arbanasi thrived as a prosperous trading center. Wealthy merchants constructed distinctive two-story houses resembling fortresses, characterized by high stone walls, narrow windows, and heavy wooden gates, designed to protect against frequent raids.

• Tsarevets - Tsarevets Fortress is a medieval stronghold located in Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria, and is one of the most significant historical monuments in the country. It served as the main fortress and royal residence of the Second Bulgarian Empire (1185–1396), when Veliko Tarnovo was the capital.

Key Features:

Hilltop Location: The fortress is situated on Tsarevets Hill, surrounded on three sides by the Yantra River, offering natural defense and dramatic views.

Fortification Walls: The outer walls are about 3 meters thick and enclose a large area with over 400 residential and administrative buildings, churches, and towers.

Baldwin’s Tower: A reconstructed watchtower named after Baldwin I of Constantinople, who was captured and allegedly died in the fortress after the Battle of Adrianople (1205).

Royal Palace: Located at the highest point, the ruins of the Palace of the Bulgarian Tsars include a throne hall, royal church, and royal chambers.

• Veliko Tarnovo - Veliko Tarnovo is a historic city in central northern Bulgaria, famously known as the medieval capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire (1185–1396). Perched on three hills—Tsarevets, Trapezitsa, and Sveta Gora—and overlooking the winding Yantra River, the city is one of Bulgaria’s most picturesque and culturally significant destinations.

Historical Overview:

Ancient Origins: Archaeological evidence shows that Veliko Tarnovo was inhabited since the Neolithic period, later becoming an important Thracian and Roman settlement.

Medieval Glory: It rose to prominence after the successful uprising of the Asen and Peter brothers in 1185, becoming the capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire.

Cultural and Spiritual Center: The city was a hub for Orthodox Christianity, literature, and architecture, earning it the nickname “Third Rome” by some historians.

Key Attractions:

Tsarevets Fortress – The grand medieval stronghold with royal and patriarchal buildings.

• Samovodska Charshiya Complex - Samovodska Charshiya is a historic artisan district in the heart of Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria, renowned for its well-preserved 19th-century architecture and vibrant cultural heritage. Established in the 1860s and 1870s, it served as the city’s bustling market and craft center during the National Revival period.

️ Historical Significance

The name “Samovodska” originates from the nearby village of Samovodene, whose women would lay out their produce on colorful rugs in the market, a tradition that continues in spirit today. The district comprises two narrow cobblestone streets lined with Revival-style houses, workshops, and inns, reflecting the economic and cultural life of Veliko Tarnovo during the late 19th century.

️ Artisan Workshops

Samovodska Charshiya remains a living testament to traditional Bulgarian craftsmanship. Visitors can explore various active workshops, including:

• Hotel Pick-up
• Private transportation
• In-vehicle air conditioning
• Professional tour guide in English

• Entrance fees
• Entrance fees
• Lunch

The tour kicks off with a visit to the St. Dimitrii of Basarbovo Monastery, the sole active rock-hewn monastery in Bulgaria. Situated within the cliffs of the Rusenski Lom River, this serene retreat has origins dating back to the 12th century.

Following this, the tour proceeds to the scenic architectural reserve of Arbanasi, located above Veliko Tarnovo. Guests can savor a traditional Bulgarian meal in a delightful local tavern, surrounded by historic stone houses. After lunch, a brief stroll through the cobblestone streets allows visitors to appreciate the village’s distinctive architecture.

Post-lunch, the exploration continues with Tsarevets Fortress, the highlight of Bulgaria’s medieval history. Once the royal seat of the Second Bulgarian Empire, this hilltop fortress provides sweeping views, remnants of royal palaces, Baldwin’s Tower, and the restored Patriarchal Cathedral.

The tour wraps up with a relaxed walk through the enchanting streets of Veliko Tarnovo, known as the “City of the Tsars.” Visitors can explore local artisan shops and visit the Samovodska Charshiya.

• Passport is required to cross the border into Bulgaria.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.