Plovdiv
“A city upon layers of cities”, this is how the Bulgarians describe the city of Plovdiv. Travelers with a Eurail pass can experience its layers of history now that Bulgaria is part of Eurail. It is located within the picturesque seven hills that is why many Bulgarians call it the “City of Seven Hills”. It is also situated along the banks of Maritza river.
History Of Plovdiv
Plovdiv’s history is older than the Eternal City, Rome. Probably a contemporary of Troy, it was a magnificent and important city of Europe. Philip II of Macedonia conquered the old town of Plovdiv in 432BC, and named it Philippopolis. Later, it became a Thracian town named Pulpuveda. During the 1st century AD, since the town lies within the three hills, the Romans, who conquered the town, named it Thrimonzium. Emperors Trayanus and Marcus Aurelius built fortresses around the town. Several conquerors triumphed over the town. When it was under the Turkish rule in 1365, the town which was previously plundered was turned into an important administrative and military center of crafts. Several more struggles occurred, but it was only in 1878 that Plovdiv was liberated. During the time when Bulgaria was under the communist regime, Plovdiv became the city for democratic demonstrations.
Things To Do In Plovdiv
In this ancient city, there are many things that you can do. The Hissarya Spa Resort is located at the Sredna Gora Mountains which is near the famous Valley of the Roses. Several visitors come to this place for therapeutic reasons. The Bachkovo Monastery is also a great place to visit. Located 30 kilometers from the city center, it is considered as an important monument of Christian architecture. The Assenova Krepost, or Asen’s Fortress, is another great place to visit as it also gives an amazing view of the mountains in Bulgaria. Nebet Tepe, on the other hand, is a great place for sightseeing. It is a wonderful place that overlooks the Old Town of Plovdiv. Next is the Ethnographic Museum with wonderful exteriors. It is the 1847 home of Argir Kuyumdzhioglu that was converted to a museum which features six varied exhibitions. But the must-see, must-visit of all is Historic Plovdiv itself. It features historic Bulgarian homes and cobbled streets towards the Ancient Roman ruins. It is near the shopping area, too. So before heading home, make sure to check something to bring from Plovdiv.