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THE POMORIE TOMB-MAUSOLEUM – A MYSTERY WITH A MYTHICAL TOUCH

The Pomorie Tomb-Mausoleum is our focus in Pomorie. This site is ancient (II-IV c.) and enigmatic. When people think of the Black Sea, they often picture summer, sunshine, and beautiful sandy beaches. It’s no wonder the Black Sea coast draws thousands of holidaymakers to Bulgaria from May through October.The modern town of Pomorie, once the ancient city of Anchialos, lies just 20 km from Burgas. If you have extra time, a visit to the local history museum can enrich your understanding of the area’s thousands of years of history.

The Pomorie Tomb Mausoleum

But for those with a deeper interest in history and culture, the region offers much more. One of the most intriguing archaeological sites along the coast is the Pomorie tomb-mausoleum – a place shrouded in mystery and touched by myth. This Thracian monument offers a cosmic glimpse into the lives and spiritual beliefs of ancient peoples.

Thanks to modern navigation, it’s easy to find the site, officially known as the Pomorie Thracian Tumulus. A brief detour from the main road will bring you directly to this fascinating location.

Why Visit the Pomorie-Tomb- Mausoleum, a mystery with a mythical touch?

Set within what’s known as the “Hollow Mound,” the tomb stands out for its unique architecture and presumed ritual function. It’s believed to be part of a larger necropolis, which highlights the significance of this area in ancient times. The name Anchialos comes from the words anchi (near) and als (salt), hinting at its historic ties to salt mining. Salt as a resource so valuable in antiquity that even children today learn about its importance.

The Pomorie Tomb Mausoleum 2

THE POMORIE TOMB-MAUSOLEUM – A MYSTERY WITH A MYTHICAL TOUCH

Most scholars believe the structure served as a mausoleum (heroon) for a wealthy Thracian family from Anchialos. It’s also thought to have been a site for religious rituals related to sun worship. This ancient domed tomb is the largest of its kind discovered in Bulgaria. It stands alone on the Balkan Peninsula as a unique blend of a traditional Thracian tomb and a Roman-style mausoleum.

The Pomorie Tomb-Mausoleum – What Meets the Eye

famed Treasury of Atreus in Mycenae. Its impressive scale and unique construction place it among the most remarkable monuments of the ancient world.

As Dr. Vassil Mutafov explains, the tomb was built using alternating layers of stone and standard Roman bricks, held together with mortar mixed with crushed brick. The facade is finely crafted, indicating that the tomb originally stood exposed before being covered by an 8-meter-high tumulus. A 22-meter-long corridor (dromos), topped with a half-cylindrical vault, leads visitors into the tomb’s interior.

The entrance to the dromos was never buried. It featured a double-leaf door designed for repeated use, secured from the inside. The structure’s materials reflect a blend of cultures: stonework typical of Thracian builders and bricks characteristic of Roman construction.

At the heart of the circular burial chamber—5.5 meters high and 11.56 meters in diameter—stands a hollow central column. The ring-shaped hall is covered by a torus-like vault that connects the central column to the surrounding wall. Inside the column, spiral stone stairs once led to the top of the tumulus. These stairs were later removed, and the passage was sealed. It is believed that the column extended above the mound and was once topped by a statue.

Around the inner wall of the chamber are five niches, likely used to hold urns of the deceased. The walls of the chamber, corridor, and side rooms were plastered with “hot mortar”. This is a mix of quicklime and sea sand—and painted, though only fragments of the original green-colored plaster have survived.

Architectural parallels to the Pomorie tomb can be found in Thracian and Bosporan tombs from the 4th–3rd centuries BC, as well as in sacred and royal buildings across the Mediterranean, such as the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus and structures in Commagene.

The Pomorie Tomb-Mausoleum, a Mystery with a Mythical Touch – What Lies Beyond Sight

The architecture of the Pomorie tomb-mausoleum is more than just remarkable engineering. It is a physical manifestation of ancient spiritual beliefs and cosmic symbolism.

According to Professor Alexander Foll, the priests of the time used the tomb as a sacred observatory. They interpreted the will of the god Sabazius—whom they identified with Apollo by day—by watching the sun’s rays as they penetrated the hollow column when the sun reached its zenith. At night, when the sun descended into the “lower hemisphere of the earth,” the priests lit a sacred fire on the altar. The flickering flames, shining through the column’s opening and reflected in the night sky, became a medium for divination. During these rituals, the god Sabazius was called Dionysus.

Many mysteries remain, known only to the initiates—those who tracked the sun’s rays during the vernal and summer equinoxes, when light gradually conquered darkness. The tomb’s flawless acoustics amplified the effects of autophony—a phenomenon used in rituals to bring the divine into oneself, in a state of spiritual ecstasy known as enthousiasmos.

Pomorie Tomb Mausoleum Dromos

Another symbol worth noting is the pentagram formed by the five niches inside the chamber. This sacred geometry was more than decorative—it reflected the ancient belief in universal harmony and cosmic order.

The Pomorie tombmausoleum invites us to revisit the sacred mysteries of the Thracians, the legend of Orpheus, and the Roman belief in the soul’s immortality. It is both an archaeological marvel and a gateway to the mythic and mystical world of the ancients.

Koprivhtica-Foklore-Festival-4 Dancers

Koprivshtica-Bulgaria’s Living Museum & 2025 Heart of Bulgarian Folklore

Koprivshtica’s Legacy: Bulgaria’s Living Museum – A Journey Through History

Koprivshtitsa a living museum and heart of Bulgarian Folklore, once again hosts the renowned Festival of Bulgarian Folklore this year. Nestled in the Sredna Gora mountains, just a two-hour drive from the capital, this charming town is famed for its authentic Bulgarian Revival architecture and rich historical legacy.

Koprivshtica Living Museum & Folklore Festival Capital 2025

In 2025, Koprivshtitsa proudly becomes the Bulgarian Folklore Festival capital. This iconic event, held once every five years, celebrates the nation’s vibrant heritage with music, dance, and traditional crafts. We will help you explore the enchanting world of Koprivshtitsa and its pivotal role in keeping Bulgarian folklore alive.

Koprivshtica – Historical Background

Koprivshtitsa’s story begins in the 14th century, but it truly flourished during the Bulgarian National Revival period of the 18th and 19th centuries. The town became a hub for education, crafts, and revolution. It is famously associated with the April Uprising of 1876. It was a key event in Bulgaria’s fight for independence from Ottoman rule. Today, walking through the cobbled streets feels like stepping into a living history book. Every house, bridge, and monument tells a tale of resilience and patriotism.

Actually, the village’s architecture is a defining feature of its appeal. Brightly coloured houses with ornate woodwork and spacious courtyards reflect the unique style of the Bulgarian Revival. Notable landmarks include the homes of revolutionary heroes and prominent figures, such as:

Koprivshtica-Living-Museum-Kableshkovs-House

Todor Kableshkov’s House, where the brave leader of the 1876 April Uprising was born. He wrote the famous blood-stained letter on April 20(May 2) that signaled the revolt.

Koprivshtica-Lyutov's-House

Lutov’s House, showcasing traditional craftsmanship and decorative arts.

So, these historical treasures, now museums, offer a glimpse into the lives and struggles of Bulgaria’s past.

The Bulgaian Folklore Festival: A Cultural Phenomenon

Every five years, Koprivshtitsa transforms into a vibrant stage for one of Bulgaria’s most iconic cultural events—the National Festival of Bulgarian Folklore. First held in 1965, this grand gathering attracts tens of thousands of participants and visitors from across the country and beyond. It celebrates the soul of Bulgarian heritage through music, dance, traditional costumes, and crafts. In 2025, the festival returns for 3 days (8 – 10 August), with even greater significance. Thus, Bulgaria continues to preserve and promote its intangible cultural heritage.

Here’s what makes the event truly special:

Koprivshtica a Living Museum & Heart of Bulgarian Folklore

The Koprivshtica Folklore Festival  – a Global Stage for Bulgarian Folklore

Of course, the festival is a showcase of the nation’s regional diversity, bringing together performers from all corners of Bulgaria. Each folklore region represens its’ distinct costumes, musical styles, and dances that reflect local traditions passed down through generations. Visitors can expect to see dancers performing intricate horo (circle dances), hear hauntingly beautiful folk songs, and watch musicians play instruments like the kaval (shepherd’s flute), gaida (bagpipe), and tupan (large drum).

Koprivshtica- a Living Museum & 2025 Heart of Authentic Bulgarian Folklore

The popularity of authentic Bulgarian folklore music is amazing. It holds a unique charm that has captivated audiences worldwide. Due to its rich textures, evocative melodies, and distinctively complex rhythms, Bulgarian folklore became so popular.

One of the most defining features of Bulgarian folklore is its irregular, or asymmetrical rhythms. Unlike the even, symmetrical patterns commonly found in Western music (such as 4/4 or 3/4 time), Bulgarian music employs rhythms that combine short and long beats in unconventional groupings. These rhythms often feel “lopsided” but create an energetic and dynamic flow.

Examples and Explanation of Bulgarian Folklore Music Asymmetrical Rhythms

  1. Additive Rhythmic Structures:
    • Bulgarian rhythms are often described in terms of beat groupings. For instance, the dance rhythm “kopanitsa” is counted as 11/8, broken down into 2+2+3+2+2.
    • Another common rhythm, “horo”, might use a 7/8 pattern divided into 3+2+2 beats, creating a lively, skipping sensation.
  2. Dynamic and Energetic Flow:
    • These uneven patterns create constant forward momentum and unpredictability, making the music feel spontaneous and engaging. This quality makes Bulgarian folk-dance music particularly thrilling.
  3. Natural Origin:
    • The roots of asymmetrical rhythms in Bulgarian music are often traced back to the natural rhythms of daily life in rural Bulgaria—such as the steps of a plow animal or the swing of a scythe.

Impact of Asymmetrical Rhythms on Global Music

Bulgarian asymmetrical rhythms have influenced:

  • World Music and Jazz: Musicians have drawn inspiration from the complexity and freedom of Bulgarian time signatures.
  • Film Scores and Classical Music: Elements of Bulgarian rhythm have been incorporated into scores for an exotic or folkloric effect.

Bulgarian folklore music has found its way into various Hollywood films, adding a unique and evocative element to their soundtracks. Here are some notable examples:

The Banshees of Inisherin (2022)
This film opens with the Bulgarian folk song “Polegnala e Todora,” performed by the renowned choir The Mystery of the Bulgarian Voices. The song’s haunting melody sets a poignant tone for the movie.

Tomorrowland (2015)
The film’s score features a segment of the legendary Bulgarian folk song “Izlel e Delyo Haydutin.” However, its inclusion was unauthorized, leading to discussions about intellectual property rights.

Hummingbird (2013)
This action movie, starring Jason Statham, includes the Bulgarian folk song “Malka Moma” (“Little Girl”), adding an authentic touch to its soundtrack.

In summary, Bulgarian folklore music’s popularity stems from its emotional depth, distinctive vocal and melodic techniques, and, most notably, its captivating asymmetrical rhythms. These complex rhythmic structures break conventional patterns. They create a uniquely vibrant, immersive experience that continues to intrigue musicians and audiences around the world.

The Koprivshtica Folklore Festival– A Living Tradition & 2025 Heart of Bulgarian Folklore

Unlike static museum exhibits, the folklore festival presents a dynamic and living representation of Bulgaria’s cultural heritage. Participants of all ages, from children to the elderly, come together to perform and share their skills. The atmosphere is one of joy, pride, and communal celebration.

The Koprivshtica Folklore Festival Stunning Traditional Costumes

Above all, one of the festival’s most captivating aspects is the dazzling array of traditional costumes. Each outfit is a work of art, characterized by intricate embroidery, vibrant colors, and symbolic patterns. Different regions have unique costume designs, making the festival a visual feast that highlights Bulgaria’s regional identities.

The Koprivshtica Folklore Festival Masterpieces of Folk Art and Crafts

In addition to music and dance, the festival also features exhibitions of traditional crafts. Artisans demonstrate skills such as embroidery, pottery, woodcarving, and weaving. Visitors have the chance to purchase authentic handmade goods and witness the craftsmanship that has been preserved for centuries.

Koprivshtitsa -a Living Museum & Heart of Bulgarian Folklore: Top Attractions

Beyond the festival, Koprivshtitsa offers a range of attractions that make it a must-visit destination:

The Town’s Historical Homes

Moreover, each of the restored homes turned museums offers unique insights into Bulgaria’s cultural and revolutionary history. The Oslekov, Lyutov, and Kableshkov houses are just a few examples of the architectural gems you can explore.

Stone Bridges

The town’s stone bridges, including the Kalachev Bridge, are iconic symbols of Koprivshtitsa’s charm. In fact, these bridges, built with local stone, add to the town’s picturesque scenery.

Monuments and Memorials

You will find memorials dedcated to the April Uprising and Bulgaria’s fight for freedon everywhere. The April Uprising Monument and Todor Kableshkov’s bust are among the most prominent.

Local Cuisine

Surely, no visit to Koprivshtitsa is complete without savouring traditional Bulgarian dishes. Certainly, Local taverns serve specialties such as banitsa (a pastry filled with cheese), kavarma (a slow-cooked meat dish), and shopska salad (a refreshing mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta cheese).

Tips for Attending the 2025 Bulgarian Folklore Festival

If you’re planning to attend the 2025 festival, here are some helpful tips to enhance your experience:

  • Book Accommodations Early: The festival draws large crowds, and lodging in Koprivshtitsa fills up quickly. Consider nearby towns, or even plan a day tour our of Sofia. It’s only 2 hours drive away.
  • Budget travellers may visit the festival for a day. There is a daily train service from Sofia to Koprivshtica.
  • Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be walking on uneven cobblestone streets, so sturdy footwear is essential.
  • Bring Cash: Many vendors and artisans operate on a cash-only basis.
  • Stay Hydrated and Sun-Protected: August weather can be warm, so carry water and sunscreen.

Koprivshtica a Living Museum & Heart of Bulgarian Folklore – Why Koprivshtitsa Matters

In fact, Koprivshtitsa is more than a historical village; it is a symbol of Bulgarian identity and pride. Its preservation and celebration of folklore serve as a testament to the enduring spirit of a nation that treasures its roots. By hosting the 2025 Bulgarian Folklore Festival, the town reaffirms its role as a beacon of cultural heritage.

All things considered, Koprivshtitsa, as the Bulgarian Folklore Festival capital of 2025, invites visitors to experience the magic of tradition in a setting where history lives and breathes. Whether you are drawn by the music, the dances, or the rich historical ambiance, this enchanting village promises a journey through the heart and soul of Bulgaria. Plan your visit to Koprivshtitsa and be part of a timeless celebration that will leave you with memories of a culture that dances to its own vibrant tune.

Bulgaria’s Rose Valley- the Blossoming Industry

Bulgaria’s Rose Valley Distilleries and the Global Demand for Rose Oil

Nestled in the heart of the Balkan Peninsula, Bulgaria’s Rose Valley distillery industry has been an enduring symbol of tradition, craftsmanship, and natural beauty for centuries. Known as one of the world’s largest producers of rose oil, Bulgaria’s industry has helped shape the nation’s economy and cultural heritage. In this text, we will explore the fascinating history, production processes, and global significance of this aromatic enterprise.

Rose-Valley-Bulgaria

Bulgaria’s Rose Valley 2025 ->The Origins of Bulgarian Rose Cultivation

The story of rose cultivation in Bulgaria dates back over 300 years. Introduced to the country by Ottoman traders, the Rosa Damascena variety—also known as the Damask rose—found an ideal home in the Kazanlak Valley, often referred to as the “Valley of Roses.” The region’s unique climate, characterized by mild temperatures, plentiful rainfall, and cinnamon forest soils, provides perfect conditions for cultivating roses.

By the 18th century, small family-owned distilleries began extracting rose oil using traditional methods. Over time, the industry flourished, and Bulgaria emerged as a global leader in rose oil production, a reputation it maintains to this day.

Rose Oil: The “Liquid Gold”

Rose oil, often called “liquid gold,” is one of the most valuable essential oils in the world. Its unique fragrance and therapeutic properties make it a prized ingredient in luxury perfumes, cosmetics, and aromatherapy products. The high price of rose oil is justified by the meticulous and labor-intensive production process.

To produce just one kilogram of rose oil, distillers need about 3,000 to 4,000 kilograms of rose petals. In fact, roses are harvested by hand early in the morning when the concentration of aromatic compounds is highest. Timing and precision are critical—delays in processing can compromise the quality of the final product.

Bulgaria's-Rose-Valley-Rosa-Damascena

The Distillation Process

The distillation process in the Rose Valley involves several stages:

  1. Harvesting: During the blooming season, typically from late May to early June, rose pickers gather fresh petals at dawn. Speed and care are essential to preserve the delicate petals’ aroma.
  2. Steam Distillation: The collected petals are transported to distilleries, where they are placed in large copper stills. Steam passes through the petals, carrying the aromatic compounds.
  3. Condensation: The steam is cooled, condensing into a mixture of water and oil. This initial distillation yields rose water and a small amount of essential oil.
  4. Separation: The oil is separated from the water and further refined to achieve the highest purity.

Many distilleries still adhere to traditional methods of rose oil production, in order to maintain authenticity. However, many try to introduce modern technologies,too . One of the leading distilleries implemented “supercritical extraction”. The extraction of active substances and essential oils by liquefied gases (known as supercritical fluid extraction) is a high-tech process. And this is the technology of the future for the production of natural, aromatic products. High-tech diversification includes also “cavitation extraction”. This method extracts active substances from cellular and subcellular plant organelles. The plant raw material is soaked in a liquid medium (aqueous, aqueous-alcoholic, glycerin, and even lipid solution), so the cell membranes are destroyed. This technology applies also for deep extraction of plant raw materials. It helps the extraction of intracellular components by applying micro implosion.

The Economic Impact

The rose distillery industry plays a vital role in Bulgaria’s economy. The country produces approximately 70% of the world’s rose oil, with significant export markets in the United States, China, Japan, Taiwan, South Korea and France. In 2023 Bulgaria exported 1370 km attar of roses at an average price 9,168 €/kg The industry supports thousands of jobs, from rose cultivation and harvesting to distillation and export logistics.

Small, family-owned distilleries coexist with larger enterprises, creating a diverse ecosystem. Many distilleries also engage in eco-tourism, attracting visitors with guided tours, rose-picking experiences, and demonstrations of traditional distillation techniques. These initiatives enhance the industry’s visibility and contribute to the local economy.

Bulgarian Rose Valley 2025 ->The Industry of Rose Attar destillation

According to the Ministry of Agriculture, there are 2,943 registered rose growers and 5,367 hectares of rose gardens, with 67 companies involved in essential oil distillation (2024).
Many local producers recognize that rose oil should be incorporated into more products rather than exported solely as a raw material. Following the fall of communism 35 years ago, only a few state-owned producers remained. Bulgarian Rose Karlovo, founded in 1948, was one of the first manufacturers of cosmetics using natural Bulgarian rose oil. Now, cosmetic producers are numerous, with many emerging over the last decade.

Bulgaria-Rose-Valley-&-Rose-Attar

The best local brands promote organic products, using the highest quality rose attar in their face creams and serums. The quality-to-price ratio will surprise you. However, having local support and guidance is invaluable for discovering the best value-for-money products. Finding the right consultant is worth the effort, even if it poses a challenge. If flawless skin is your goal, look for Bulgarian superior-quality cosmetics.

Challenges Facing the Industry

Despite its successes, the rose distillery sector in Bulgaria faces several challenges:

  1. Climate Change: Shifting weather patterns threaten rose cultivation, impacting both yield and quality.
  2. Labor Shortages: The physically demanding nature of rose picking has led to a decline in seasonal labor availability.
  3. Market Competition: Synthetic alternatives and rose oil production from other countries, including Turkey and Iran, create competitive pressures.

To mitigate these challenges, Bulgarian producers are investing in sustainable farming practices, automation, and enhanced quality controls.

Certainly,the best rose distillery owners value quality. Wellness and healthcare innovations are a priority for all. And they are really happy with their achievements.

The Cultural Significance of Roses

To start with, the rose is more than a crop in Bulgaria—it is a national symbol and a source of pride. Every year, the Rose Valley and the city of Kazanlak hosts the Rose Festival, a vibrant celebration featuring parades, traditional music, and the crowning of the “Queen of Roses.” The festival draws thousands of tourists and highlights the deep connection between roses and Bulgarian heritage.

Welcome-to-Rose-Valley-Karlovo

Bulgaria’s Rose Valley 2025 ->Innovations and the Future of the Industry

As global demand for natural and organic products grows, Bulgaria’s rose oil industry is thriving. Certainly, innovations in cultivation and extraction techniques are helping improve efficiency while preserving quality. Investments in marketing and branding are also strengthening Bulgaria’s reputation as a premium source of authentic rose oil.

Additionally, partnerships with universities and research institutions are driving scientific advancements. Studies on the therapeutic benefits of rose oil—such as its anti-inflammatory and mood-enhancing properties—are expanding its applications in wellness and healthcare.

Final words

In conclusion, the Bulgarian rose distillery industry is a unique blend of tradition, craftsmanship, and innovation. Of course, despite facing modern challenges, local produers continue to enchant the world with its exquisite rose oil. As global consumers increasingly value authenticity, sustainability, and natural beauty, Bulgaria’s “liquid gold” will undoubtedly remain a cherished commodity for generations to come.

Moreover, it’s never too late to visit Bulgaria’s Rose valley 2025 in May, hand-pick rose petals early in the morning, and feel the energy of the Rose Valley of Karlovo and Kazanlak.

BURGAS BEYOND THE CROWDS: The Ultimate Private Tour Experience

Burgas Private Tour Experience

Burgas is the second largest city on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast, located at the largest bay – the Gulf of Burgas. Incredibly, in recent years it has become a magnet for many – both Bulgarians and foreigners. And Burgas private tour experience is worth the effort.

At first, let’s start with a walk along the pedestrian streets of Burgas, starting at “Troika” Square. You will understand where the name of this iconic place for Burgas residents comes from. And the story is simple – in 1934 a tall pillar with three lamps was erected on this square, which gave it its present name “Troika”. The busiest pedestrian street in Burgas, which leads to the sea and is exactly 666 m long, is Stefan Bogoridi Street.

It is also home to the History Museum, which tells the story of the town’s origins as a fishing village in the 17th century. Burgas developed as an industrial centre after 1890, following the construction of the railway from Sofia.

Certainly, a private tour with a local will save you time and answer all your queries.

Start with the Sea Garden (Morska Gradina)

To start with, your Burgas private tour experience will take you to the Sea Garden. Begin at this iconic park, a symbol of Burgas. Stroll through its lush greenery, enjoy views of Burgas Bay, and take in the vibrant atmosphere with cafes, statues, and beach access. From the terrace of the Sea Casino you will enjoy a fascinating view. Surely, on a private tour there is always time for a rest and a coffee break.

Visit “The Bridge” (Mosta), a T-shaped pier offering scenic views and a chance to reconnect with the sea.

Continue to the harbour area. This part of Burgas has been renovated and is now a favourite place for walks, especially at sunset.

Explore the Lakes and Nature

Head to Lake Atanasovsko, known for its pink saltwater and flamingos. Carry on with your Burgas private tour experience. You can also explore the salt-pans to learn about traditional salt production.

Visit Poda Protected Area, a haven for birdwatchers with over 260 bird species.

The region around Burgas, Bulgaria, is a paradise for nature lovers, offering a stunning blend of lakes, wetlands, and coastal beauty. The Burgas Lakes—Atanasovsko, Vaya, Mandrensko, and Pomorie—are rich in biodiversity. They attract thousands of migratory birds. The Poda Protected Area is a must-visit for birdwatchers, home to rare species like the Dalmatian pelican and pygmy cormorant. Nearby, the Burgas salt mines provide a unique landscape where salt extraction supports both industry and wildlife. The area’s pink-hued salt pans also offer healing mud baths. This natural wonderland is perfect for eco-tourism, photography, and peaceful outdoor escapes.

The best seasons for birdwatching in the Burgas region, especially in the Poda Protected Area and the Burgas Lakes, are spring (March-May) and autumn (August-October). These are peak migration periods when thousands of birds pass through the region on the Via Pontica migration route.

Burgas Birdwatching

Birds You Can See on a Private Tour

Spring/Summer: Dalmatian pelican, pygmy cormorant, white-tailed eagle, black-winged stilt, spoonbill, glossy ibis

Autumn: Storks, pelicans, honey buzzards, eagles, and falcons

Winter: Red-breasted goose, greater white-fronted goose, smews, and various ducks

In short, the diversity makes Burgas a year-round birdwatching destination!

Discover the Lye and Healing Mud SPA with a Private Tour

  • Location: Lye and mud pools at Atanasovsko Lake are located North of Burgas, a 20-minutes’ drive away.
  • Experiences: Are you ready to spend some time floating in the salt lake, covering oneself in healing mud?  And then wash off in the nearby Black Sea? This natural spa is no longer free of charge, as it used to be. For a small fee you will be able to feel the magic of 4 natural factors: Sun – Sea – Lye – Mud
  • Lye  info: Lye is a product of salt extraction and contains only inorganic substances – sodium chloride, magnesium, potassium, sulphur etc. It is obtained after evaporation and concentration of the salts in the lake water during the salt extraction process.
Burgas Private Tour Experience

The Black Sea lye has a proven medical effect. It is used in the treatment and prophylaxis of conditions related to the locomotor system, skin inflammations, varicose veins and colds. It is recommended for arthrosis, arthritis tendinitis, discopathy, joint dislocation.

MUD SPA – A Presious Resourse

  • Mud info: The healing mud is a sediment product of the closed salt lake. It is clean and homogenous, with dark grey to black colour and smell of hydrogen sulphide. It contains inorganic compounds such as silicates, sands, gypsum, iron and aluminium compounds, various hydroxides and salts. This composition has been formed for millennia by the putrefaction of unicellular organisms, algae, fish, crayfish, mussels. One centimetre of healing mud is formed for a minimum period of one year.

The essence of the healing mud treatment is its complex effect on the entire peripheral nervous system. Thus, mud treatment reduces swelling and pain, heals scars, improves the metabolic and regenerative processes.

In addition to healing, the mud is beautifying and rejuvenating. All the minerals, i.e. calcium, iodine, phosphorus are absorbed by the skin. You will see for yourself why local people often visit the pools daily, after work.

BURGAS Mud Baths

Dive into History at Aquae Calidae

Discover the ancient baths and thermal springs at Aquae Calidae. (In translation – hot springs) Aquae Calidae is an ancient settlement with a rich history spanning millennia. It has been a renowned spa and healing center since antiquity, drawing visitors due to its mineral springs.

Located just 14 km northwest of Burgas, Aqua Calidae is an interesting site for all those tempted by ancient and mediaeval history. You can see the fully restored Baths of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent. He visited Aquae Calidae in 1562 and ordered the construction of a Turkish bath. The culrative waters here helped the Sultan gwt rid of a gout . Beautuful marble and cermics, typical of Ottoman architecture, make this bath a key attraction today.

A Private Tour Visit to St. Anastasia Island

Getting to this mysterious island requires a boat trip from Burgas. Regular boat services connect the island to Burgas, making it easily accessible for day trips.

Visiting St. Anastasia Island offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. It is an attractive destination for travellers. Here are some compelling reasons to visit:

Historical Significance

  • Monastery and Church. The island is home to the oldest church in the Burgas region, the ”Ascension” church. It dates back to the 12th – 14th centuries. It features beautiful frescoes and an impressive iconostasis (1802)
  • Former prison: The monastery was converted into a prison during the early 20th century.

Cultural attractions:

  • Interactive museum: The former monastery building now houses and interactive museum showcasing the island’s history .
  • Lighthouse: Built by a French company in 1889q the lighthouse offers a stunning views and is a notable landmark.

Natural Beauty and Legends

  • Rock Formations: The island is famous for its unique rock formations. You will see “The Mushrooms” and “The Fossilized Pirate Ship” and hear the local legendaty stories.
  • Herbal Garden: It’s fun to explore a healing garden. You can learn how to grow herbs and prepare aromatic teas.

Romantic experiences

  • Enjoy breathtaking sunset from the island, which are particularly popular during summer evening.

Sea-side and Beaches

There are several beautiful beaches close by, each offering unique experiences.

It’s up to you to choose between the Central Beach Burgas, the Northern Beach Burgas, Kraymorie or Sarafovo. You might find it strange, but the sand at some areas is black. This dark coloration is due to the presence of minerals such as iron and manganese, which are common here.

Should you need golden sands, just drive 40 km south to Sozopol, or 40 km north, to the resort area of Sunny beach. You will find long sandy beaches in Obzor, too.

Indulge in Local Cuisine

Enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants offering dishes like vine-wrapped trout or mussels in tomato sauce. Pair your meal with traditional Bulgarian sides for an authentic experience.

As the restaurant business nowadays is quite dynamic, the best advice to follow is to ask the locals. The best restaurants provide a blend of local Bulgarian cuisine and international flavours, catering to various tastes and preferences.

My personal experience from last summer was quite positive. We spend hours at “Al Mare” beach restaurant and bar, enjoying the sea view. “Doc 5” is another fine place, located at Burgas Port, with gorgeous sunset vibes. Walking downtown, stop at “Oreha” or at “Di Verso “. Each place offers quality food and friendly service.

Summer FestivalsBurgas Private Tour Experience

Burgas is a coastal city that comes alive in the summer with an exciting lineup of festivals. From music and arts to food and film, Burgas offers a festival for every taste. With the Black Sea as a backdrop, these events attract locals and tourists alike, creating an unforgettable summer atmosphere.

For example, to name only the most popular:  Spirit of Burgas (SPICE Music festival), Burgas Sand Festival, Burgas Jazz Festival , International Folklore Festival,  Kite Festival, Puppets Festival.

With its diverse and exciting festivals, Burgas is a summer hotspot for music, art, and cultural experiences. Actually, whether you love live concerts, artistic displays, or traditional folklore, this beautiful seaside city has something special to offer.

All things considered, only few of us are the lucky ones who can stay in Burgas longer. No matter how much time you have, you will always be able to explore Burgas and feel the spirit of this vibrant city.

SURVA 2025

SURVA Mummers’Festival 2025 in Pictures

Surva 2025

The SURVA Mummers’ Festival is one of our favorite winter festivals. It is a vibrant showcase of folk culture and traditions. Typically held in January, this festival draws thousands of visitors eager to immerse themselves in a unique atmosphere filled with music, dance, and elaborate costumes.

Surva 2025

History and Significance of The Surva Mummers Festival in Pernik

First, let’s start with some history. Rooted in ancient rituals, the festival marks the transition from winter to spring, originally serving as a protective measure against evil spirits. Participants don intricate masks and costumes believed to ward off malevolent forces. Over time, Surva has transformed into a significant cultural event that highlights Bulgaria’s rich folklore heritage. Surva Mummers Festival gained international recognition since its inception in 1966.

Atmosphere and Activities of Surva Mummers Festival

The atmosphere during the Surva Festival is electric and festive. Here are some key elements that contribute to its unique vibe:

Colorful Costumes and Masks

Participants, known as “mummers,” wear striking costumes and masks that often represent various mythical creatures, animals, or characters from folklore. The diversity of designs showcases the creativity of Bulgarian artisans and adds a visual feast for attendees.

Processions and Performances

The festival features grand parades where mummers march through the streets of Pernik, accompanied by traditional music played on folk instruments. Various groups perform folk dances and reenactments, allowing visitors to experience Bulgaria’s cultural heritage firsthand.

Culinary Delights

The Surva Festival celebration is also a time for indulging in traditional Bulgarian cuisine. Food stalls and local vendors offer a variety of dishes, including hearty stews, pastries, and rakia, a popular Balkan alcoholic beverage. The aromas and flavors enhance the communal spirit of the festival.

Community Involvement

Surva is not just a tourist attraction; it is deeply rooted in community participation. Local families, schools, and cultural organizations come together to prepare for the event, fostering a sense of pride and camaraderie among residents.

Why Visit The Surva Mummers Festival

Actually, the Surva Mummers Festival in Pernik is a captivating blend of tradition, celebration, and community spirit. Visitors can expect an unforgettable experience filled with enchanting performances, stunning costumes, and a vibrant atmosphere that truly captures the essence of Bulgarian folklore.

In conclusion, whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply looking for a unique cultural experience, Surva is an event not to be missed.