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BOYANA CHURCH
The existing church was extended and decorated in 1259. A tiny church containing an astonishing set of 13th century frescoes, painted in a realistic manner, rejecting the stiff and formal Byzantine style of their era, and anticipating the style of the Italian Renaissance.
The most vivid portraits are those of the donors of money to the church., sebastocrator Kaloyan and his wife, Dessislava. Located in the village of Boyana, in the foothills of Vitosha Mountain, 8 km from the Sofia city center.
RILA MONASTERY
First founded in the 10th century, its present-day appearance dating from the mid-19th century. The most famous monument of Bulgarian architecture and culture from the Nationsl Revival period (the early Renaissance).
The greatest Bulgarian monastery with exquisite architecture, fantastic wall paintings, brilliant iconostasis, a rich collection of icons and old manuscripts. Located 120 km southwest of Sofia in the heart of the Rila Mountain.
THE MADARA HORSEMAN
Early 7th century AD. An expressive bas-relief, carved high out of the sheer rock, and depicting a horseman spearing a lion. It symbolizes greatness of the ruler and the power of his state. Europe's only rock relief dating from the early Middle Ages. Located 20 km from the town of Shoumen, NE Bulgaria.
ROCK CHURCHES
Several mediaeval churches, chapels and monastic cells have been dug into the rocks flanking a scenic river valley. Located at a height of 6 to 8 meters, the cells were inhabited by monks until the 17th century. Chronicles of the preserved church murals show that the community of hermits also created a blossoming literary center during the 13th-14th century. The Archangel Church built in the 14th century is the best preserved. Located near the village of Ivanovo, Rousse region, NE Bulgaria.
SREBARNA WILDLIFE RESERVE
A shallow lake near the Danube river, one of the most interesting and typical wetlands in Europe, abounding in an amazing diversity of plant varieties and animal species. Almost half of all Bulgarian birds nest here (179 rare species). Located close by the town of Silistra, NE Bulgaria
PIRIN NATIONAL PARK
It lies in the highest part of the Pirin Mountain. Forests cover 60% of its total area. Trees between 20 and 1000 years old have been declared natural sites. The Pirin National Park has exceptionally rich and varied flora and fauna. His is the kingdom of alpine flowers. Glacier lakes, caves, water falls and steep peaks form part of the magnificent scenery.
Satyr on a bronze situla. 4th century BC.
Malkata Mogila near Shipka, Kazanlak region.
Museum of history, Kazanlak.
Gold seal-ring. 5th century BC.
Malkata Mogila near Shipka, Kazanlak region.
Museum of history, Kazanlak.
Thracian temple facade and entrance to the main chamber. 4th century BC.
Mogila Helvetsia near Shipka, the Kazanlak region.
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