During the 13th – 14th centuries Sofia (then known as Sredets) were gilded with a “necklace” of monasteries, referred to as the “minor Holy Mount” of Sofia, with deference to Holy Mount Athos. Today it is assumed that it originally consisted of fourteen hierarchically administered monasteries, among which the major one was that of St George in the village Bistritsa, while the others were subordinated to it. Today nothing remains of the original mediaeval Bistritsa monastery, except the name of the locality – “Obrochishte”, meaning “consecrated ground”. The parish church of the village of Bistritsa now stands there, having been built much later, at the end of the 19th century.
The others are thought to be: Dragalevtsi Monastery of the Holy Virgin of Vitosha Mountain; German Monastery of St John of Rila, founded in 10th century and to which a privilege was granted by the Byzantine Emperor Alexius Comnenus; Osenovlag Monastery of the Seven Altars; Lozen Monastery of The Lord Our Savior; Kokalyane Monastery of St Archangel Michael, which was closely connected to the mediaeval Bulgarian fortress town of Urvich; Kremikovtsi Monastery of St George; Seslavtsi Monastery of St Nicholas of Myra; Kourilo Monastery of St John the Precursor; Eleshnitsa Monastery of the Assumption of the Most Holy Virgin; Alino Monastery of the Lord Our Savior; Ilientsi Monastery of St Prophet Elijah; Bilintsi Monastery of St John of Rila in the town of Sredets, which was mentioned in 1108 by Theophilactus, Archbishop of Ohrid. According to some researchers the eminent Boyana Church is the only surviving part of a mediaeval monastery that once belonged to the congregation of the Holy Mount of Sofia. All of these monasteries maintained active relationships with Holy Mount Athos, and German Monastery was already a convent of the Zograph Monastery there in the early middle ages.
The heyday of the Minor Holy Mount came at the end of 16th and the early 17th century thanks to the dedication of Pimen of Zograf, a highly educated and devoted monk and painter who came from Mount Athos. Following tradition, he built and decorated with sacred murals nearly forty cloisters in the region, and trained a group of local people to form the so called “Sofia literally and artistic school”, consisting of his adherents and assistants. Pimen of Zograf, who was later canonized by the Bulgarian Orthodox Church, was among the most distinguished religious on the Balkans in the early 17th century, and throughout the history of Orthodox art. The jewel of his heritage is the Church of St Nicholas of Myra of the Seslavtsi Monastery.
The number of cloisters and hermitages that originated in the vicinity of Sofia during the 10th – 13th centuries grew to nearly 140 by the middle of the 19th century. Many of them are no longer in existence, and the only clue that anything holy ever existed in a particular locality is its name, such as “Manastirishte” (meaning monastic ground) and “Tsarkvishte” (church ground), or the scant remains of a building. But several surviving monasteries still safeguard the spiritual glory of the Holy Mount Sofia.
Monday, April 13, 2009
Monday, April 6, 2009
Smederevo
Smederevo is located on the south coast of the Panonian see and on the north-east slopes of Sumadija hills. It is surrounded by the Danube in the north and by the Velika Morava in the east. This area is under the influence of mild continental climate, the average annual temperature is 11-12 C. Dominant wind is Kosava. The town consists of 27 rural and 11 urban communities. The total area is 480 km2 and it has 110.000 inhabitants of which about 65.000 live in the central town area.
Diversified town traffic net enables good connectivity of Smederevo with its road, railway and water lines. Smederevo is 45 km away from Belgrade. The town is connected to Belgrade and to the north of the country by its railway, and to the south parts of the country through Mala Krsna. There is a highway that runs through Smederevo, it is 30 km long.
Smederevo is one of the oldest settlements in the Serbian District Podunavlje. The settlement which was located on the current position of Smederevo was mentioned for the first time in 1019 in the charter of Byzantine Emperor, Vasilije II, and the present name of Smederevo is mentioned in 1381 in the charter of Monastery Ravanica. In the 15th century Despot Djuradj Brankovic chose this very place on the Danube to be capital of the Serbian state. In the period between 1428 and 1430 “mali grad” was built as a ruler’s castle at the lower end of the river Jezava into the Danube, and then looking up to the Fortress of Carigrad the construction of “Veliki grad” on an area of 10,5 ha was continued in the period between 1430 and 1439. During the time of Despot’s reign Smederevo was the centre of political, economical and cultural life of Medieval Serbia. In the beginning of the 20th Smederevo’s opulent agricultural area with significant production of fruits and wines with the famous “Smederevo’s vineyard”, its excellent geographic position on the Danube and growing trade made the basis of its further development.
Many events take place in Smederevo during the whole year and certainly the most important of them is “Smederevo’s autumn”. This touristic and business manifestation take place every year at the end of September, it is devoted to fruits of autumn (fruits, grapes and vine) with carnival of medieval knights and a rich cultural and artistic program. One cannot talk about Smederevo without mentioning “Smederevka”, one of leading autochthonous types of grapes from Smederevo’s vineyard. Presence of vines on Smederevo’s area date from ancient history. Illyrian, Thracians and Celtic tribes were raising grapes in these areas before the arrival of Roman conquerors who forbid raising grapes in provinces on Balkan during the emperor Domitian. Marcus Aurelius Probe abolished this prohibition and started, with soldiers from his legions to plant vines again on these areas. After the prohibition, numerous conquers and wars, viticulture and growing of Smederevka still keep the Smederevo’s tradition. Many people wrote about their grapes and wines but the name Smederevka as the name of the brand can be found in written sources from the 19th century. From 1879 merchants from European countries are buying wine from Smederevo and selling it in Switzerland, France and other countries. In 1882 on World Fair in Bordeaux, wines from Smederevo received significant recognition. Winegrowers from Smederevo still keep the tradition of growing Smederevka and still produce quality wines that can be tasted in their cellars.
If you are visiting Smederevo, don’t miss the following tourist’s destinations and historical and cultural monuments:
Smederevo’s Fortress (Serbian capital from 15th century, the biggest plain fortress in Europe)
Museum in Smederevo (learn about Smederevo’s history from ancient times until today)
The main city square (in this area are many cultural and historical monuments)
Orthodox temple of St George (the third biggest temple in Serbia, built as a Monastery Manasija)
Community Court building
Former Community House building
Assumption of Holy Mother of God Church (built in 15th century, is on Smederevo’s old cemetery, and it is believed that it was the family tomb and the church of Despot Djuradj Brankovic.
Diversified town traffic net enables good connectivity of Smederevo with its road, railway and water lines. Smederevo is 45 km away from Belgrade. The town is connected to Belgrade and to the north of the country by its railway, and to the south parts of the country through Mala Krsna. There is a highway that runs through Smederevo, it is 30 km long.
Smederevo is one of the oldest settlements in the Serbian District Podunavlje. The settlement which was located on the current position of Smederevo was mentioned for the first time in 1019 in the charter of Byzantine Emperor, Vasilije II, and the present name of Smederevo is mentioned in 1381 in the charter of Monastery Ravanica. In the 15th century Despot Djuradj Brankovic chose this very place on the Danube to be capital of the Serbian state. In the period between 1428 and 1430 “mali grad” was built as a ruler’s castle at the lower end of the river Jezava into the Danube, and then looking up to the Fortress of Carigrad the construction of “Veliki grad” on an area of 10,5 ha was continued in the period between 1430 and 1439. During the time of Despot’s reign Smederevo was the centre of political, economical and cultural life of Medieval Serbia. In the beginning of the 20th Smederevo’s opulent agricultural area with significant production of fruits and wines with the famous “Smederevo’s vineyard”, its excellent geographic position on the Danube and growing trade made the basis of its further development.
Many events take place in Smederevo during the whole year and certainly the most important of them is “Smederevo’s autumn”. This touristic and business manifestation take place every year at the end of September, it is devoted to fruits of autumn (fruits, grapes and vine) with carnival of medieval knights and a rich cultural and artistic program. One cannot talk about Smederevo without mentioning “Smederevka”, one of leading autochthonous types of grapes from Smederevo’s vineyard. Presence of vines on Smederevo’s area date from ancient history. Illyrian, Thracians and Celtic tribes were raising grapes in these areas before the arrival of Roman conquerors who forbid raising grapes in provinces on Balkan during the emperor Domitian. Marcus Aurelius Probe abolished this prohibition and started, with soldiers from his legions to plant vines again on these areas. After the prohibition, numerous conquers and wars, viticulture and growing of Smederevka still keep the Smederevo’s tradition. Many people wrote about their grapes and wines but the name Smederevka as the name of the brand can be found in written sources from the 19th century. From 1879 merchants from European countries are buying wine from Smederevo and selling it in Switzerland, France and other countries. In 1882 on World Fair in Bordeaux, wines from Smederevo received significant recognition. Winegrowers from Smederevo still keep the tradition of growing Smederevka and still produce quality wines that can be tasted in their cellars.
If you are visiting Smederevo, don’t miss the following tourist’s destinations and historical and cultural monuments:
Smederevo’s Fortress (Serbian capital from 15th century, the biggest plain fortress in Europe)
Museum in Smederevo (learn about Smederevo’s history from ancient times until today)
The main city square (in this area are many cultural and historical monuments)
Orthodox temple of St George (the third biggest temple in Serbia, built as a Monastery Manasija)
Community Court building
Former Community House building
Assumption of Holy Mother of God Church (built in 15th century, is on Smederevo’s old cemetery, and it is believed that it was the family tomb and the church of Despot Djuradj Brankovic.
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Paxi Island – Greece
The Island of Paxi, having a big mythology, is bathing, like another Venus, just very close to Corfu, in the Ionian Sea.
Paxi is an island full of natural beauties, capturing any visitor. Saint Nikolas castle, Madonna’s cloister on the homonym island, Erimitis, Karama, Ypapanti, Ellinospita, Ortholithos, Graves, Ahai, the Museum, the Gallery, the Mills, the Basins, the Lighthouses, Vatoumi, Vrika are some of the sightseeing the visitor may enjoy.
Paxi is an island full of olive trees, its population survived for centuries on this blessed tree, which used to be not only a source of living but also a mean for development and evolution. Today, tourism is the major source of income at Paxi local economy.
Now on, transport from and to Corfu and Igoumenitsa is daily. Among the island’s customs which survive until today are: the stock on 15th of August, which is distributed for free on the small island of Madonna Koulouma at Lakka with pagan dances and songs, the First Resurrection at Saint Giakoumo of Fountana, where they hit regularly the pews, the Processions after Easter, Labates of Sent John etc.
Certainly the island offers many enjoyable choices and the visitor shall be fully satisfied.
Paxi is an island full of natural beauties, capturing any visitor. Saint Nikolas castle, Madonna’s cloister on the homonym island, Erimitis, Karama, Ypapanti, Ellinospita, Ortholithos, Graves, Ahai, the Museum, the Gallery, the Mills, the Basins, the Lighthouses, Vatoumi, Vrika are some of the sightseeing the visitor may enjoy.
Paxi is an island full of olive trees, its population survived for centuries on this blessed tree, which used to be not only a source of living but also a mean for development and evolution. Today, tourism is the major source of income at Paxi local economy.
Now on, transport from and to Corfu and Igoumenitsa is daily. Among the island’s customs which survive until today are: the stock on 15th of August, which is distributed for free on the small island of Madonna Koulouma at Lakka with pagan dances and songs, the First Resurrection at Saint Giakoumo of Fountana, where they hit regularly the pews, the Processions after Easter, Labates of Sent John etc.
Certainly the island offers many enjoyable choices and the visitor shall be fully satisfied.
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Roman “Villa Urbana”
Whole territory of today’s town Risan, from the spring Sopot till the monastery Banja, represents very rich and important archaeological site where are created the pages of the earliest history of Montenegrin Littoral. The Bay of Boka Kotorska was for the first time mentioned under the name of “Rison River” in the middle of 4th century BC. In the year 230 BC Illyrian fortress Rison on the hill Gradina over Risan become the war capital of Illyrian state of the tribe Ardiei under the king Agron and his heiress, very known queen Teuta, who began the first in the series of wars with the powerful state of Rome, which termined with the final decline of the Illyricum under the king Genthius, in the year 167 BC.
Immediately after the submission began the hurried Romanization of Risinium, which become a typical Roman town enclosed by “cyclopean” city walls and urban center or Forum on the field Carine at the right side of small creek Spila. Out of ramparts were the cemeteries or necropolis, and on the southern side the residential part of the town with the villas of rich merchants and landowners of Risan.
The mosaics cover the floors in 4 of 5 rooms in the east part and in 2 rooms in the west tract of villa, while in other rooms were discovered only the traces of mosaic floors. In the west part of villa, toward the sea, the mosaics were made in the technical of large cubes of local grey and black stone, with the motif of “labrys”, the double battle ash from Crete. Between the mosaics in the east part of villa the best is the mosaic floor in the north corner room, made by the stone cubes of different sizes and colors (red, yellow, green, blue, black, white), with stylized floral motifs wreathed in a certain geometric rhythm, but in the middle is the round medallion bordered with meander and on them, by very miniature cubes and skilful blended shades, presented the Greek god of dreams Hypnos in the shape of young winged boy, leaned on the pillow. By this figure and the fact of the absence of ornaments on one part of the floor in the size of a bed, it is concluded that it is the sleeping room (dormitories) of the owner. In the next room toward south the mosaic floor is made in the form of chess board by black and white stone cubes, while the subsequent one had the mosaic floor made in ceramics, destroyed in earlier excavations. The following two rooms have the mosaic floors, in the first one decorated by geometric ornaments and stylized examples of sea fauna, while in the last on the south the floor is divided in 8 rectangles, also with geometric motifs and stylization of sea fauna, but as here one part of the corner is without ornamentation, it is presumed that was the dining room of the villa, with typical Roman couches, for diner.
Immediately after the submission began the hurried Romanization of Risinium, which become a typical Roman town enclosed by “cyclopean” city walls and urban center or Forum on the field Carine at the right side of small creek Spila. Out of ramparts were the cemeteries or necropolis, and on the southern side the residential part of the town with the villas of rich merchants and landowners of Risan.
The mosaics cover the floors in 4 of 5 rooms in the east part and in 2 rooms in the west tract of villa, while in other rooms were discovered only the traces of mosaic floors. In the west part of villa, toward the sea, the mosaics were made in the technical of large cubes of local grey and black stone, with the motif of “labrys”, the double battle ash from Crete. Between the mosaics in the east part of villa the best is the mosaic floor in the north corner room, made by the stone cubes of different sizes and colors (red, yellow, green, blue, black, white), with stylized floral motifs wreathed in a certain geometric rhythm, but in the middle is the round medallion bordered with meander and on them, by very miniature cubes and skilful blended shades, presented the Greek god of dreams Hypnos in the shape of young winged boy, leaned on the pillow. By this figure and the fact of the absence of ornaments on one part of the floor in the size of a bed, it is concluded that it is the sleeping room (dormitories) of the owner. In the next room toward south the mosaic floor is made in the form of chess board by black and white stone cubes, while the subsequent one had the mosaic floor made in ceramics, destroyed in earlier excavations. The following two rooms have the mosaic floors, in the first one decorated by geometric ornaments and stylized examples of sea fauna, while in the last on the south the floor is divided in 8 rectangles, also with geometric motifs and stylization of sea fauna, but as here one part of the corner is without ornamentation, it is presumed that was the dining room of the villa, with typical Roman couches, for diner.
Monday, March 9, 2009
Dvorovi Spa
Settled in Northeastern part of Republic of Srpska – Bosnia and Herzegovina, Dvorovi Spa is situated between rivers of Sava and Drina, on 93 m height above sea level, and roads running across Raca and Pavlovic Bridge from Serbia to Bijeljina and farther to Banja Luka and other cities in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
By its Semberia meekness, grand parks, swimming pools, good hotel accommodation in St Stephan Hotel, and above all by good host hospitability, Dvorovi Spa is right place for vacation, prevention and curing for different diseases.
History
First perception about medical thermal water in Dvorovi Spa comes from 1956th, a time oil-field workers, looking for an oil southern from Sava River, made a well in Dvorovi village, near to Bijeljina. From the same gushed forth starting to stream out with no control. Careful and inventive native citizens of Dvorovi village gave warm water for an analyzes – results showed mineral water with important characteristics crucial for rheumatics patients therapy, with clearly expressed mineral ingredients in its resource.
After warm mineral water is discovered and its quality analyses is made, construction works on bath and spa building with a reservoir for warm water, that needed firstly to be cooled due to its too high temperature for direct usage, was started. By spa building, in 1968th an Olympic swimming pool with warm water was made, what was very rare and unique case in Bosnia and Herzegovina in that time, a place for sincere enjoyment of swimmers in a pool and relaxing. Later on a restaurant of Stara banja namely Izvor nowadays, was made just next to thermo mineral water origin. In 1981st a small children swimming pool was built as well. Planed spa development and infrastructure construction, and organized activities on tourist-catering offer development has started in 1986th by new company Spa-recreation centre Dvorovi establishment, when spa managing was transferred from local community of Dvorovi to newly established company. In last ten years, thanks to clear business plan and management, infrastructure construction and creation of good ambient made this spa recognized today. Two more swimming pools, fields for small sports are already made; new hotel is in construction, one well more is found with water temperature of 80 C, unfortunately not exploited yet.
Healing power of mineral water
The water is sodium-calcium-hydro carbonate- chloride one. Its analyzes proved that water usage gives very good results in curing chronic rheumatic diseases, lighter forms of diabetes, chronic gastritis, posttraumatic injuries of extremities and some forms of eczemas, chronic gynaecological diseases, lumbago, spondilosis, spondilitis and lumboistialgia.
It is recommended to the guests to use thermo mineral healing water in a form of baths, efficiently curing following diseases:
Inflammation of rheumatic diseases in resigned clinical and lab phase
Degenerative rheumatic diseases
After the injuries states
After direct surgery on locomotors systems
Scoliosis and kifoscoliosis
Peripheral arterial blood vessels diseases
Paresis and paralysis of peripheral nerves
Light skin diseases
Caries prevention by water drinking
Stomach, bile and bile ducts diseases – by water drinking
In Dvorovi Spa, full medical team consisted of doctors, specialist, physiotherapists, masseurs, medicine personnel, takes care about guests’ health.
The Spa gives medical services whole around the year, whereas tourist-catering services are mostly given over the summer time. Swimming pools usage is seasonal.
In summer time, a season of vacations, school holidays, excursions, organized sports events, 120.000 guests visit spa complex coming from Bijeljina, region and other parts of Republic of Srpska, Croatia, Serbia.
Congress tourism
In Dvorovi Spa, there are halls suitable for holding different seminars, symposiums, presentation etc.
Its favorable geographical position, its nearness to Belgrade, Novi Sad, Zagreb and Banja Luka make it suitable for congress tourism development.
Hotels
St Stephan Hotel is categorized as high B category, with 42 two-bed rooms and 2 apartments. The rooms are with bathrooms, phone line and TV; over the winter, heating is made by thermo mineral water.
Within the hotel, there is a restaurant with 400 sits. Proleter Restaurant is with 300 sits, and Izvor Restaurant is with 120 sits and 200 sits outside on the terrace, a place the guests can enjoy in pleasant atmosphere and domestic cuisine prepared by culinary masters.
In St Stephan Hotel, there is a medical block with medical rehabilitation services. There is a lift in a hotel, too.
By its Semberia meekness, grand parks, swimming pools, good hotel accommodation in St Stephan Hotel, and above all by good host hospitability, Dvorovi Spa is right place for vacation, prevention and curing for different diseases.
History
First perception about medical thermal water in Dvorovi Spa comes from 1956th, a time oil-field workers, looking for an oil southern from Sava River, made a well in Dvorovi village, near to Bijeljina. From the same gushed forth starting to stream out with no control. Careful and inventive native citizens of Dvorovi village gave warm water for an analyzes – results showed mineral water with important characteristics crucial for rheumatics patients therapy, with clearly expressed mineral ingredients in its resource.
After warm mineral water is discovered and its quality analyses is made, construction works on bath and spa building with a reservoir for warm water, that needed firstly to be cooled due to its too high temperature for direct usage, was started. By spa building, in 1968th an Olympic swimming pool with warm water was made, what was very rare and unique case in Bosnia and Herzegovina in that time, a place for sincere enjoyment of swimmers in a pool and relaxing. Later on a restaurant of Stara banja namely Izvor nowadays, was made just next to thermo mineral water origin. In 1981st a small children swimming pool was built as well. Planed spa development and infrastructure construction, and organized activities on tourist-catering offer development has started in 1986th by new company Spa-recreation centre Dvorovi establishment, when spa managing was transferred from local community of Dvorovi to newly established company. In last ten years, thanks to clear business plan and management, infrastructure construction and creation of good ambient made this spa recognized today. Two more swimming pools, fields for small sports are already made; new hotel is in construction, one well more is found with water temperature of 80 C, unfortunately not exploited yet.
Healing power of mineral water
The water is sodium-calcium-hydro carbonate- chloride one. Its analyzes proved that water usage gives very good results in curing chronic rheumatic diseases, lighter forms of diabetes, chronic gastritis, posttraumatic injuries of extremities and some forms of eczemas, chronic gynaecological diseases, lumbago, spondilosis, spondilitis and lumboistialgia.
It is recommended to the guests to use thermo mineral healing water in a form of baths, efficiently curing following diseases:
Inflammation of rheumatic diseases in resigned clinical and lab phase
Degenerative rheumatic diseases
After the injuries states
After direct surgery on locomotors systems
Scoliosis and kifoscoliosis
Peripheral arterial blood vessels diseases
Paresis and paralysis of peripheral nerves
Light skin diseases
Caries prevention by water drinking
Stomach, bile and bile ducts diseases – by water drinking
In Dvorovi Spa, full medical team consisted of doctors, specialist, physiotherapists, masseurs, medicine personnel, takes care about guests’ health.
The Spa gives medical services whole around the year, whereas tourist-catering services are mostly given over the summer time. Swimming pools usage is seasonal.
In summer time, a season of vacations, school holidays, excursions, organized sports events, 120.000 guests visit spa complex coming from Bijeljina, region and other parts of Republic of Srpska, Croatia, Serbia.
Congress tourism
In Dvorovi Spa, there are halls suitable for holding different seminars, symposiums, presentation etc.
Its favorable geographical position, its nearness to Belgrade, Novi Sad, Zagreb and Banja Luka make it suitable for congress tourism development.
Hotels
St Stephan Hotel is categorized as high B category, with 42 two-bed rooms and 2 apartments. The rooms are with bathrooms, phone line and TV; over the winter, heating is made by thermo mineral water.
Within the hotel, there is a restaurant with 400 sits. Proleter Restaurant is with 300 sits, and Izvor Restaurant is with 120 sits and 200 sits outside on the terrace, a place the guests can enjoy in pleasant atmosphere and domestic cuisine prepared by culinary masters.
In St Stephan Hotel, there is a medical block with medical rehabilitation services. There is a lift in a hotel, too.
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Plovdiv
Ancient history
Plovdiv is one of the most ancient towns not only in Bulgaria, but also in Europe. It was a contemporary of Troy and far exceeded the system of chronology in Rome, Athens and Constantinople. Its system of chronology started as far back as 6000 BC with the formation of some Neolithic settlements that existed until the Bronze era. From the year 2000 BC on, the settlement of Nebet hillock was surrounded by a stone wall and some 1000 years later was established the most ancient town in region – Evmolpiya. It stretched over 82 acres and encompassed the present Three-Hillock and the archaeological traits of the town was connected with the Roman Emperor Phillip II – 341 BC and the Thracian king Sevt III. From the 1st century BC the town was included in the Roman province of Thracia. It then became known as Pulpudeva, Philipolis, and Trimontzium. More than a century later, it turned into a metropolis with the right to cut coins. The preserved ruins of the Stadium for 30000 people, theatre, Forum, temples, stronghold wall, and two aqueducts of 23 kilometers in length are all symbols of its flourishing history.
Middle Ages
After the subsequent destructions by Huns and Goths, from the north towards Thracia came the Slavs and the Bulgarian armies of Khan Krum reached in the year 812. Plovdiv was under Bulgarian rule at the time of prince Malamir. In the year of 970 Prince Vladimir of Kiev destroyed the town and killed 20000 of its citizens. In the XI-XII centuries Plovdiv was under Byzantine rule. In the year of 1189, the armies of the Third Crusade headed by Fridrich I Barbosa remained for six months. The Fourth Crusade settled the so-called “Plovdiv Dukedom” in the year of 1204. Only a year after the victory of the Bulgarian king Kaloyan the town fell prey to the Byzantines and then to the Latin’s. This struggle continued from 1206 until 1344. A few decades later the armies of the Ottoman sultan entered.
Revival
The 18th and 19th centuries turned Plovdiv into a centre of the Bulgarian National Revival. Until this day, when one starts climbing the Three-Hillock area on the side of the Djumaya mosque one needs to make only a few steps on the cobbled streets, before he/she gets into the Bulgarian National Revival atmosphere of ancient Plovdiv. Up to the famous Hissar Gate, one can see many houses and churches, all unique in their architecture and picturesque look. Most houses in Plovdiv have their own names – the house of Hindliyan, Balabanov, Kuyumdjiev, and in the latter is located the Ethnographic museum and in its yard is held the International Festival of Chamber Music. One can also be captured by the enormous beauty of the ancient church “St Constantine and Elena” and the Cathedral temple “St Mother of God”. It is now clear to see why Ancient Plovdiv was honored with the UNESCO gold medal for contributions in the cultural monuments preservation.
Ancient Theatre
It was found by chance, a few decades ago, while executing strengthening work upon the southern stronghold wall. The Antique Theatre unfolded for the audience an impressive construction of the Roman times. The amphitheatre consists of two or three rings of 14 rows, each with the capacity to host close to 7000 spectators. A curious fact is that the names of the town headquarters have been carved onto the benches of each sector. The stage is on two levels with rich architecture and decoration. After all the exhausting restoration work and conservation it has been turned today into the Antique Theatre of Plovdiv, a cultural focus for a great number of Bulgarian and foreign festivals, concerts and spectacles. Its most common everyday function is as a place for relaxation for tired tourists who can sit on the benches and enjoy the magnificent panoramic view.
Under the Hillocks
From the Three-Hillock area one has the opportunity to see that Plovdiv has three other big hills around it – Bunardjik, Sahat Hill and Djendem Hill. In the past there was also a smaller hill, called Markovo Hill. Beside the hills is the large river “Maritza”. A walk alongside its bridges will bring you into the newest part of the city, or in front of the gates of the Plovdiv Fair.
Plovdiv can show you many more sites of interest – the Archaeological museum with invaluable antique collections of the Museum of the Unification, dated back to 1885 when the Kingdom of Bulgaria joined Eastern Roumelia, the rich Arts gallery, the exposition of “Zlatyo Boyadjiev”, the church “St Marina”, the Catholic church “St Ludwig” from 1863. passing through the tranquility of the Town Garden formed by Swiss gardeners in the beginning of the last century you will find yourselves in the bustling and most favorite place for the citizens of Plovdiv – the pedestrian Main street.
Plovdiv is one of the most ancient towns not only in Bulgaria, but also in Europe. It was a contemporary of Troy and far exceeded the system of chronology in Rome, Athens and Constantinople. Its system of chronology started as far back as 6000 BC with the formation of some Neolithic settlements that existed until the Bronze era. From the year 2000 BC on, the settlement of Nebet hillock was surrounded by a stone wall and some 1000 years later was established the most ancient town in region – Evmolpiya. It stretched over 82 acres and encompassed the present Three-Hillock and the archaeological traits of the town was connected with the Roman Emperor Phillip II – 341 BC and the Thracian king Sevt III. From the 1st century BC the town was included in the Roman province of Thracia. It then became known as Pulpudeva, Philipolis, and Trimontzium. More than a century later, it turned into a metropolis with the right to cut coins. The preserved ruins of the Stadium for 30000 people, theatre, Forum, temples, stronghold wall, and two aqueducts of 23 kilometers in length are all symbols of its flourishing history.
Middle Ages
After the subsequent destructions by Huns and Goths, from the north towards Thracia came the Slavs and the Bulgarian armies of Khan Krum reached in the year 812. Plovdiv was under Bulgarian rule at the time of prince Malamir. In the year of 970 Prince Vladimir of Kiev destroyed the town and killed 20000 of its citizens. In the XI-XII centuries Plovdiv was under Byzantine rule. In the year of 1189, the armies of the Third Crusade headed by Fridrich I Barbosa remained for six months. The Fourth Crusade settled the so-called “Plovdiv Dukedom” in the year of 1204. Only a year after the victory of the Bulgarian king Kaloyan the town fell prey to the Byzantines and then to the Latin’s. This struggle continued from 1206 until 1344. A few decades later the armies of the Ottoman sultan entered.
Revival
The 18th and 19th centuries turned Plovdiv into a centre of the Bulgarian National Revival. Until this day, when one starts climbing the Three-Hillock area on the side of the Djumaya mosque one needs to make only a few steps on the cobbled streets, before he/she gets into the Bulgarian National Revival atmosphere of ancient Plovdiv. Up to the famous Hissar Gate, one can see many houses and churches, all unique in their architecture and picturesque look. Most houses in Plovdiv have their own names – the house of Hindliyan, Balabanov, Kuyumdjiev, and in the latter is located the Ethnographic museum and in its yard is held the International Festival of Chamber Music. One can also be captured by the enormous beauty of the ancient church “St Constantine and Elena” and the Cathedral temple “St Mother of God”. It is now clear to see why Ancient Plovdiv was honored with the UNESCO gold medal for contributions in the cultural monuments preservation.
Ancient Theatre
It was found by chance, a few decades ago, while executing strengthening work upon the southern stronghold wall. The Antique Theatre unfolded for the audience an impressive construction of the Roman times. The amphitheatre consists of two or three rings of 14 rows, each with the capacity to host close to 7000 spectators. A curious fact is that the names of the town headquarters have been carved onto the benches of each sector. The stage is on two levels with rich architecture and decoration. After all the exhausting restoration work and conservation it has been turned today into the Antique Theatre of Plovdiv, a cultural focus for a great number of Bulgarian and foreign festivals, concerts and spectacles. Its most common everyday function is as a place for relaxation for tired tourists who can sit on the benches and enjoy the magnificent panoramic view.
Under the Hillocks
From the Three-Hillock area one has the opportunity to see that Plovdiv has three other big hills around it – Bunardjik, Sahat Hill and Djendem Hill. In the past there was also a smaller hill, called Markovo Hill. Beside the hills is the large river “Maritza”. A walk alongside its bridges will bring you into the newest part of the city, or in front of the gates of the Plovdiv Fair.
Plovdiv can show you many more sites of interest – the Archaeological museum with invaluable antique collections of the Museum of the Unification, dated back to 1885 when the Kingdom of Bulgaria joined Eastern Roumelia, the rich Arts gallery, the exposition of “Zlatyo Boyadjiev”, the church “St Marina”, the Catholic church “St Ludwig” from 1863. passing through the tranquility of the Town Garden formed by Swiss gardeners in the beginning of the last century you will find yourselves in the bustling and most favorite place for the citizens of Plovdiv – the pedestrian Main street.
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Visiting the Centre of Florence
At one end of this part of Florence is the main railway station-a rare example of modern architecture in the city centre. At the other end, a magnet for visitors and Florentines alike, is the Ponte Vecchio, the city's oldest bridge. It is lined with jewellery's shop, here since 1593, and presents a scene little changed since. Between these two focal points there is something to interest most people, from the frescoes of Santa Maria Novella and Santa Trinità to the awesome Palazzo Strozzi. Nearby is Piazza della Repubblica, originally laid out as part of the grandiose plans to remodel Florence when it was briefly the nation's capital. Most locals may consider it an eyesore, but the cafès here have always been very popular. This is also the part of Florence in which to shop, from the leather goods, silks and woolens of the Mercato Nuovo to elegant showrooms of the top couturiers in Via della Vigna Nuova and Via de' Tornabuoni. In the smaller streets off these, local artisans still continue Florence's proud tradition of craftsmanship, from stone cutting to restoration work.
Around Piazza della Repubblica.
Underlying the street plan of modern Florence is the far older pattern of the ancient Roman city founded on the banks of the Arno. Nowhere is this more evident than in the rectilinear grid of narrow streets lead north from the river Arno to the Piazza della Repubblica, once the site of the forum, the main square of the ancient Roman city. It later became the city authorities decided to tidy it up in the 1860s, building the triumphal arch that now stands in today's cafè- filled square. The most elegant Florence apartments are located here.
Ponte Vecchio.
The Ponte Vecchio, or Old Bridge-indeed, the oldest bridge in Florence was built in 1345. it was the only bridge in the city to escape being blown up during World War II. There have always been workshop on the bridge, but the butchers, tanners and blacksmiths who were here originally (and who used the river as a convenient rubbish tip) were evicted by Duke Ferdinando I in 1593 because of the noise and stench they created. The workshop were rebuilt and let to the more decorous goldsmiths, and the shops lining and over hanging the bridge continue to specialize in new and antique jewellery to this day.
Santa Maria Novella
The Gothic church of Santa Maria Novella contains some of the most important works of art in Florence. The church was built by the Dominicans from 1279 to 1357. Beside the church is a cemetery walled in with avelli (grave niches), which continue along the facade and the wall beyond. The cloisters form a museum. Here , the frescoes in the Spanish Chapel show the Dominicans as whippets – dominicanes or hounds of God-rounding up the “stray sheep”. The most important Florence hotels are located here.
Around Piazza della Repubblica.
Underlying the street plan of modern Florence is the far older pattern of the ancient Roman city founded on the banks of the Arno. Nowhere is this more evident than in the rectilinear grid of narrow streets lead north from the river Arno to the Piazza della Repubblica, once the site of the forum, the main square of the ancient Roman city. It later became the city authorities decided to tidy it up in the 1860s, building the triumphal arch that now stands in today's cafè- filled square. The most elegant Florence apartments are located here.
Ponte Vecchio.
The Ponte Vecchio, or Old Bridge-indeed, the oldest bridge in Florence was built in 1345. it was the only bridge in the city to escape being blown up during World War II. There have always been workshop on the bridge, but the butchers, tanners and blacksmiths who were here originally (and who used the river as a convenient rubbish tip) were evicted by Duke Ferdinando I in 1593 because of the noise and stench they created. The workshop were rebuilt and let to the more decorous goldsmiths, and the shops lining and over hanging the bridge continue to specialize in new and antique jewellery to this day.
Santa Maria Novella
The Gothic church of Santa Maria Novella contains some of the most important works of art in Florence. The church was built by the Dominicans from 1279 to 1357. Beside the church is a cemetery walled in with avelli (grave niches), which continue along the facade and the wall beyond. The cloisters form a museum. Here , the frescoes in the Spanish Chapel show the Dominicans as whippets – dominicanes or hounds of God-rounding up the “stray sheep”. The most important Florence hotels are located here.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
