History

Explore Bulgaria's Heritage of UNESCO

Bulgaria has a rich cultural and historical heritage, which is recognized by UNESCO through its World Heritage sites. World Heritage sites in Bulgaria provide invaluable insights into the country’s ancient civilizations and artistic achievements, attracting visitors from all over the world to admire their beauty and historical significance.

Bulgaria has 10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. We will list these ten and then add eight expressions of intangible heritage.

Cliff churches in the village of Ivanovo, UNESCO sites Bulgaria

Heritage selection for CULTURAL

Embark on a journey through Bulgaria’s cultural UNESCO heritage, where ancient civilizations, architectural marvels, and artistic treasures await. Explore iconic sites like the Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak and the Rila Monastery, showcasing the country’s rich history and unique cultural identity. Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Bulgaria’s cultural heritage and uncover the stories of its past.

UNESCO has 9 declared World Heritage sites in Bulgaria

Rila Monastery

Is the most important spiritual and literary centre of the Bulgarian national revival, with an uninterrupted history.

Cliff churches in the village of Ivanovo, UNESCO sites Bulgaria

Churches of Ivanovo

A complex of rock-cut churches, chapels, and cells. The first hermits dug their cells and churches here in the 12th century.

Boyana church from the outside

Boyana Church

The frescoes in this church, painted in 1259, make it one of the most important collections of medieval paintings.

Tumba tracia Sveshtari

Sveshtari Thracian Tomb

Discovered in 1982, this 3rd-century BC tomb reflects the fundamental structural principles of Thracian cult buildings

Thracian Tomb Kazanlak inside

Kazanlak Thracian Tomb

Discovered in 1944, this tomb dates from the Hellenistic period, around the end of the 4th century BC.

Madara Rider

Madara Rider

The inscriptions beside the sculpture tell of events that occurred between AD 705 and 801.

Nessebar old town. Urban Tourism

Old Town Nessebar

Situated on a rocky peninsula on the Black Sea, the more than 3,000-year-old was originally a Thracian village.

Heritage selection for NATURAL

Discover Bulgaria’s natural UNESCO heritage, where majestic mountains, pristine forests, and diverse ecosystems harmonise. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of places like Pirin National Park and the ancient beech forests of the Balkans, showcasing the country’s rich biodiversity and natural wonders

Picture from the National Park Pirin

Pirin National Park

Glacial lakes, waterfalls, caves, and coniferous woods dot the limestone mountain landscapes of the park.

Bird's-eye view over Srebarna National Reserve as part of the UNESCO Wolrd Heritage

Natural Reserve Srebarna

It is the breeding ground of almost 100 species of birds, many of which are rare or endangered.

Heritage selection for INTANGIBLE

Discover Bulgaria’s intangible UNESCO heritage, which includes rich traditions, music, dance, and craftsmanship. Engage with the cultural legacy passed down through generations, highlighting the country’s unique identity and creativity.

Chiprovski carpets Unesco Heritage

Chiprovtsi Carpets

Chiprovtsi women hand-woven carpets. Carpet weaving involves beliefs, rituals, and verbal formulae.

Nestinarstvo Bulgarian tradition

Nestinarstvo

Fire-dancing is the climax of Bulgari’s annual Panagyr celebration on Saints Constantine and Helena’s feast days.

The Grannies from Bistritsa

Bistritsa Grannies

These lovely elderly women perform traditional dances and polyphonic singing in the village of Bistritsa.

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