日本人がブルガリアと聞くとすぐに「ヨーグルト」と思い浮かぶが、実際には多彩な伝統を持つ魅力的な国。小さな国であり、東は黒海、北はドナウ川、南はトルコとギリシャ、西はセルビアとマケドニアと国境接する。修道院のあるリラや古代都市ベイリー・コテルノヴォ、バルカン山脈に位置するコプリフティカなど、知られざる美しい村がある。特に修道院や伝統的な手工芸品の町が魅力で、オスマン帝国の影響も感じられる。四季があり、春から秋がベストシーズン。
When we hear about Bulgaria, as Japanese people, we immediately think of “yogurt,” don’t we? However, in reality, Bulgaria is a fascinating country with a deeper and wider range of traditions than we imagine.
Located in southeastern Europe, Bulgaria faces the Black Sea to the east. It shares borders with Romania to the north, Turkey and Greece to the south, and Serbia and Macedonia to the west. Due to being under Ottoman rule for about 500 years from the late 14th century, many Turkish people still live in Bulgaria. This unique cultural mix has resulted in a coexistence of churches and Islamic temples, shaping a distinct culture.
Although it may not stand out on many occasions, in small villages, you can feel the charm unique to that particular area. So this time, Mr. Yamaguchi, the Central Europe Manager of World Airlines Tokyo branch, introduced us to the hidden beautiful villages of Bulgaria.
■1: Rila
Rila is a village surrounded by mountains in western Bulgaria. The Rila Monastery is the headquarters of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church and is known as the largest Orthodox monastery in Bulgaria. The high artistic quality produced by medieval Bulgarian culture is also appealing, and the vibrant wall paintings covering the entire wall are famous. In 1983, it was even listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
You can enjoy the unique atmosphere of Bulgaria, where different cultures merge.
“This monastery was highly regarded even during the Ottoman Empire, receiving gifts from the Sultan. You can feel the history, such as the idol that performed miracles.” (Yamaguchi Airlines)
■2: Bozhentsi
The ancient city of Veliko Tarnovo, located in the northeast, is said to be the most beautiful city in Bulgaria. Although it is a small town with a population of about 80,000 people, it was the capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire and was known as the “Third Rome.” It flourished as a center of politics, economy, Bulgarian Orthodoxy, and culture.
The small old town seems like time has stopped, with a peaceful atmosphere perfect for strolls. From Tsarevets Hill, you can see the densely packed houses of the Yantra Gorge. It is a charming village with a simple yet rustic atmosphere that lingers.
“In the craft district, you can still feel the atmosphere from 700 years ago. In workshops for dishes, copperware, and wooden items, products made using traditional methods evoke nostalgia.” (World Air Service Yamaguchi)
■3: Koprivshtitsa
Koprivshtitsa is located in the Balkan Mountains, which run east to west through Bulgaria. It has been selected as one of the “30 most beautiful villages in Europe” and is full of attractions. It is home to wealthy merchants’ mansions built in the 18th and 19th centuries and has been declared the first museum city in Bulgaria.
Although easily overlooked on regular tours, this small village is rich in history to the point of being called a museum village.
“The unique wooden architecture, combining National Revival style and Baroque, can only be seen in Bulgaria.” (World Air Service Yamaguchi)
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Above, we introduced three villages in Bulgaria that you must visit on your trip. Bulgaria, like Japan, experiences all four seasons, with spring to autumn being the best time to visit. Now is the best season to visit.
【Consultation on European Travel】
World Air Service
Scriptwriter: Atsumu Inaba
Photo Credit: World Air Service