Petrich lies nestled at the foot of some of Bulgaria’s most beautiful and untouched mountains – Ograzhden and Belasitsa. This southwestern region has been inhabited since ancient times, as evidenced by numerous archaeological findings. During the Middle Ages, it played a crucial role in shaping the fate of the First Bulgarian Empire.

How to get to Petrich and where to stay

Getting to Petrich is very easy by car or train. Moreover, the town serves as an ideal base for your trip. You will find many great places to stay here. Also, staying in the center allows you to see everything at a relaxed pace. Specifically, you can enjoy local food and hospitality every day.

Ograzhden Mountain and Samuil’s Fortress

Just 15 km from Petrich, near the border with North Macedonia, stands the historic Samuil’s Fortress. Actually, the site was built between 1009 and 1013 during the reign of Tsar Samuil. Specifically, this place is tied to one of the most tragic moments in Bulgarian history. In 1014, during the Battle of Kleidion, Tsar Samuil’s army suffered a devastating defeat. Later the Byzantine Emperor Basil II captured and blinded 15,000 Bulgarian soldiers. The sight of his blinded troops caused Tsar Samuil to collapse and die of a heart attack.

Today, Samuil’s Fortress is a restored national park-museum. Initially, visitors pass through a picturesque park where they can explore replicas of medieval dugouts, once used as shelters for Tsar Samuil’s army. Furthermore, the site features a towering 5-meter bronze statue of Tsar Samuil, depicted holding a scepter—a symbol of Bulgaria’s enduring spirit. A reconstructed watchtower offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Heraclea Sintica: The Hidden Ancient City

Not far from Petrich, near the Rupite area, lie the impressive ruins of Heraclea Sintica, an ancient city founded in the 4th century BCE. It flourished as a major cultural and trade center during Macedonian and Roman rule. Archaeological evidence shows the city was buried by two catastrophic earthquakes.

One of the most significant findings is an inscription that proves the city’s identity. This discovery holds great cultural and historical value, as researchers mistakenly searched for Heraclea Sintica in neighboring Greece for over 150 years.

Rupite: A Spiritual Haven

Initially, the Rupite area offers a unique spiritual retreat. It lies at the base of the extinct Kozhuh volcano. Furthermore, the legendary prophetess Vanga lived and worked here. In 1994, she funded the nearby St. Petka church. Today, this serene area features a beautiful park with rare trees. Visitors also enjoy the natural mineral springs and streams. The peaceful atmosphere gives the place a unique energy. Therefore, it continues to attract many people from all over the world.

Churilov Monastery “St. George”

Located near the village of Gega, the Churilov Monastery St. George is another spiritual gem in the Petrich region. Believed to have been founded in the 14th century, the monastery is known for its rich history and distinctive frescoes. Surrounded by the untouched natural beauty of Bulgaria’s southwest, it remains a tranquil place of worship and reflection.

With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and spiritual significance, the Petrich region offers an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking a deeper connection to Bulgaria’s past and natural heritage

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Literally translated, the name of Svilengrad means “City of Silk”. In 1932, 25% of Bulgaria’s silk was produced here. This industry has long since died out in Svilengrad. But its development can be traced in the local history museum.

The medieval Neutzikon fortress

If you dream to get away from the noise and the stress and to take a walk in nature,  don’t miss the medieval Neutzikon fortress near the village of Mezek some 13 km from Svilengrad. It dates back to the 11th-12th century and the time of Byzantine emperor Alexius I Komnenos. However  the Thracian tribe of Odrysians also lived here. In front of the fortress tourists can take part in reenactments and historical games. But perhaps the…

Thracian domed tomb

…is even more interesting.  In fact the thomb is from the 4th-3rd century BC, and is also located near the village of Mezek. It has an almost 21-meter-long dromos /corridor/, followed by  two rectangular anterooms and a round funeral chamber with a beehive dome. Summing up the total length of the installation is about 31 meters. Tourists can see holograms of the artifacts found in the tomb.

The medieval fortress of Bukelon

The forteress is located in the outskirts of the village of Matochina (about 45 km from Svilengrad) . Therefore it played an important role in Bulgarian history. Here, on April 14, 1205, Bulgarian Tsar Kaloyan defeated the Latin army, led by Emperor Baldwin I. Our tsar captured  him and took him to the capital Tarnovgrad, where he was executed. The view from these hills in the direction of today’s Turkey and the city of Edirne is fantastic.

Ancient and mysterious Rock Churches near Svilengrad

In the villages of Matochina and Mihalich tourists can see two rock churches dating back to the 9th-10th century. Obviously the church near Mihalich is unique. It is cross-domed, carved deep into the rock,  by monks and used by followers of various heresies.

Not to mention the beautiful nature !

Definitely about 80% of the territory of the municipality is part of the European network of protected areas “Natura 2000”. In brief the hills of Sakar Mountain reveal their unique beauty and are home to an incredible variety of birds.

The old bridge of Svilengrad

And before you leave, do not forget to check  the old stone bridge of Svilengrad, connecting the two banks of the Maritsa River. It was built in 1529 as part of a complex, including a caravanserai (inn), a mosque, a bazaar and a hammam.

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