Veliki Preslav

Preslav was a spiritual and literary centre and is associated with the development of the Slavic script and Bulgaria’s Golden Age. Veliki Preslav is one of Bulgaria’s 100 national tourist sites. Themes that may shape a stay here include the National Historical and Archaeological Reserve, the Archaeological Museum and Patleyna Protected Area, 4 km south of the city.

The Ethnographic Kartalova House focuses on rural life in the 19th and early 20th centuries. It offers a different historical perspective from the site’s monumental and archaeological remains: here, the focus is on everyday life in the countryside, while the reserve brings the history of older buildings and workshops to light.

The Round Church is considered an expression of the highest achievements of Old Bulgarian monumental art. Its rich decoration includes marble carvings, painted ceramics and glass mosaics. The Golden Church also reflects the country’s history: it was built during the reign of Tsar Simeon I (893–927).

Preslav’s historical importance extends beyond individual buildings. The city is associated with the development of the Slavic script and Bulgaria’s Golden Age. Those interested in these cultural connections can find further points of interest in the National Historical and Archaeological Reserve.

The Archaeological Museum of Veliki Preslav displays a monumental ceramic icon of Saint Theodore and has a collection of lead seals. Together, these different objects invite visitors to consider both visual art and material evidence of history.

The National Historical and Archaeological Reserve preserves remains of churches, monasteries, workshops, studios and palaces. The remains of the Great Palace have survived in the palace complex. The throne room was a three-aisled hall divided into three sections. Information boards and a tourist information centre are located in the reserve.

The churches also offer different historical perspectives: St Peter and Paul in Veliki Preslav dates from the 18th century. St Michael the Archangel is in the city centre. The Church of St Cyril and Methodius stands in a centuries-old pine forest in the Archaeological Reserve. These different sites help visitors consider sacred and architectural history from several perspectives.

Patleyna Protected Area lies within the territory of Veliki Preslav, 4 km south of the city. It protects Bulgaria’s largest natural stand of wild carob, and a visitor trail runs through the area. For nature lovers, Patleyna is a destination in its own right alongside the town’s cultural and historical attractions.

Remains of a craft workshop with kilns dating from the First Bulgarian Empire, from the late 9th to the early 10th century, are also located in the Patleyna area or its immediate vicinity. The medieval Monastery of St Panteleimon, dating from the 10th century, is also located there. These remains link natural and cultural history in the area, without needing to be combined into a single walk or a specific route.

Another natural destination is Dervisha Protected Area, 3 km from Veliki Preslav on the northern slope of the Preslav Mountains. It is classified as a “maintained reserve” and protects Bulgaria’s only natural stand of horse chestnut trees. Patleyna and Dervisha therefore differ in both the natural stands they protect and their locations.

When comparing hotels in Veliki Preslav, the cultural and historical sites and natural areas can provide a thematic framework for your trip. For a wider selection of other destinations, you can also explore Shumen, Kaspichan, Varbitza and Venetz. You can also include Kochovo in your search for a suitable destination.

How far is Patleyna from Veliki Preslav?

Patleyna Protected Area lies 4 km south of the city.

What is protected in Patleyna Protected Area?

Patleyna protects Bulgaria’s largest natural stand of wild carob. A visitor trail runs through the area.

What makes Dervisha distinctive?

Dervisha lies 3 km from Veliki Preslav on the northern slope of the Preslav Mountains. This protected area, classified as a “maintained reserve”, protects Bulgaria’s only natural stand of horse chestnut trees.

What historical remains are found in the reserve?

The National Historical and Archaeological Reserve preserves remains of churches, monasteries, workshops, studios and palaces. These include the remains of the Great Palace.

For the broader travel overview: Shumen Province.