Veliki Tarnovo

Veliko Tarnovo (Велико Търново), one of the three ancient capitals of Bulgaria. Located in north-central Bulgaria. Historically it was the capital of Bulgaria. At the end of the 12th century, the Bulgarian aristocratic Asen brothers organized armed forces to break away from the rule of the Byzantine Empire in Tarnovo, established a new kingdom, and settled here as their capital. In 1393, the Ottoman Empire conquered Bulgaria and the city burned to the ground. The city of Tarnovo has a dangerous terrain and was second only to Constantinople in the Middle Ages, and it was the second largest city in the Balkan Peninsula. There are many historic sites and scenic spots preserved now. The old city has been turned into a key protected area and tourist destination. The ancient city is located on the two hills of Tsarevets and Trapezica, with the Yantra River winding between them. Both mountains are surrounded by city walls.