Today
Tsarevets is one of the main tourist attractions of Bulgaria. It is an
extremely visited place by both Bulgarians and foreigners.
When our country fell under the Turkish domination in 1396, the hill
was also taken over. Most of the buildings and also the fortifying
systems were destroyed and ruined. However, in the early 20th century, a
vivid process of restoration began. It took almost 60 years to finish.
Nonetheless, the results were incredibly amazing and a big part of the
past magnificence of the Tsarevets Hill was returned to the world.
Tsarevets used to be the main residence of the three great Bulgarian
Tsars: the brothers Asen, Kaloyan and also Ivan Asen II. Throughout
their period of ruling, this castle got to its peak point in its
development. Bulgaria was one of the most potential military and
political forces altogether.
In the lower parts was once the Exterior city, including the homes of
the common people, a few churches, farm buildings, small shops and
workshops.
Once upon a time, the Tsarevets had tall and strong fortified walls,
long about 2km. They used to encircle the entire hill entirely and on
the very top of them there were a couple of turrets. The Tsar’s
residence was found on the highest point of the castle. There, of
course, lived the Tsar with his family, the closest people to them (who
were part of the rich aristocracy). This was also guarded by vast
boulders. Together with the Patriarchate, which was right next to it,
they formed the internal city.
Although it has suffered through a lot of troubles and hard
situations through its existence, the fortress has somehow managed to
preserve almost entirely its original state. It just doesn’t stop
reminding us of its greatness and power.
This land still bears, even today, the memories of the countless
battles that once happened, of the happiness and the sadness of the
people, of the dignity and heroism of the young warriors and of the
wisdom and courage of the Bulgarian rulers.
In 1187, after Tarnovo has been announced as the new capital of the
renewed Bulgarian kingdom, Tsarevets hill becomes the main fortifying
centre. It takes just a little time for the castle to turn into a
well-developed centre of merchants, craftsmen and also the religious
life. It becomes one of the best protected forts in the entire Balkan
Peninsula.
Proud and unique, this fortress’s greatness shines brightly over the
city and makes everyone astounded by its powerful presence. For
centuries Tsarevets has played a crucial role in our country’s history,
culture, traditions and customs.
One of Bulgaria’s most important and key symbols, a crucial item of
its old and great past, is the Tsarevets castle found in the old capital
– Veliko Tarnovo.
