Located about 150 km southeast the country’s capital Sofia, Plovdiv certainly has had an illustrious past (Photo: Wikimedia Commons)
Ever since it was founded in 342 BCE as a polis or megacity by the father of Alexander the Great, Philip the Great, the King of ancient Macedonia, Plovdiv in Bulgaria has been continuously inhabited, making it one of the oldest cities in Europe, older than even Rome or Athens.
Located about 150 km southeast the country’s capital Sofia, Plovdiv certainly has had an illustrious past. For, it was once the domain of an alarmingly large swathe of empires. From the Persians, ancient Macedonians, Celts, and Romans, to the Byzantines, Goths and Ottoman Turks among others, Plovdiv was the jewel that they all coveted and many of them did manage to get it.
Despite the battles for the control of Plovdiv, that is built atop seven hills and lying by the banks of the Maritsa River, was never entirely destroyed and hence has earned the distinction of being one of the most ancient continuously inhabited cities on the European continent.
With a rich mélange of cultural influences over the past 2,400 years, it is little wonder then that today, Plovdiv stands proud as one of Bulgaria’s most enchanting and culturally rich cities. From its ruins to its thriving modern scene, it offers an unforgettable travel experience.
A walk through centuries
Plovdiv are a number of archaeological sites which constitute the main reason to make a pit stop here. As one of Plovdiv’s most iconic landmarks, the Roman Theatre sitting majestically atop Nebet Tepe Hill is a remarkable feat of ancient architecture. Constructed in the 1st century CE, this well-preserved amphitheatre could once accommodate up to 7,000 spectators. Today, it serves as a venue for cultural events, including concerts and theatrical performances, offering visitors a chance to experience history in a uniquely immersive way.
A short stroll from the Roman Theatre leads you to Plovdiv’s Old Town, where cobblestone streets wind through a warren of picturesque Revival-era houses. This architectural style, prevalent in the 19th century, reflects Bulgaria’s national awakening and pride. Many of the charming houses, with their colourful facades and ornate wooden details, now house museums, galleries, and quaint cafes. Noteworthy sites include the Ethnographic Museum, housed in the exquisite Kuyumdzhioglu House, and the Regional Historical Museum, which showcases artefacts from Plovdiv’s extensive history.
Roman stadium Plovdiv dates back to the 2nd century CE (Photo: Wikimedia Commons)
But perhaps, one of the most “in-your-face” of all the ancient monuments of Plovdiv has got to be the Roman Stadium dating back to the 2nd century CE. Situated beneath the modern city, this well-preserved structure once hosted athletic competitions and public events, reflecting the grandeur of Roman architectural skill. The stadium could accommodate around 30,000 spectators and was an integral part of the ancient city’s social and cultural life. It featured a semi-circular seating arrangement and an arena for various sports. Excavations have unveiled intricate details, including parts of the seating and the track. Today, the stadium stands as a testament to Plovdiv’s rich historical heritage and Roman influence.
Cultural connect
There is good reason why Plovdiv was chosen as the European Capital of Culture in 2019
There is good reason why Plovdiv was chosen as the European Capital of Culture in 2019, exactly 20 years after the city was a host of the Month of Culture in 1999. In recent years, the city has emerged as a centre for contemporary art and culture. The Kapana Creative District, once an industrial area, has been transformed into a lively hub for artists, designers, and entrepreneurs. The district’s narrow streets are now lined with eclectic shops, art galleries, and street art. Kapana also hosts regular cultural events and festivals, making it a dynamic space where tradition and modernity intersect.
Another highlight of Plovdiv’s cultural scene is the Plovdiv Regional Art Gallery, which boasts a diverse collection of Bulgarian art from various periods. For a taste of the city’s modern cultural pulse, visit the City Art Gallery, which focuses on contemporary works and often features exhibitions by both local and international artists.
Flavourful journeys
Famed as one of the best places to savour the delights of Bulgarian cuisine, Plovdiv has a food scene that is a reflection of its rich cultural tapestry, blending influences from the Balkans, the Mediterranean and the Middle East.
Banitsa is a flaky pastry filled with a mixture of eggs, cheese, and sometimes spinach or pumpkin
One of the quintessential Bulgarian dishes to try here is banitsa, a flaky pastry filled with a mixture of eggs, cheese, and sometimes spinach or pumpkin. It is a staple of Bulgarian breakfast tables and makes for a delightful snack throughout the day. Another must-try is kavarma, a savoury stew made with tender pieces of pork or beef, capsicum, onions, and a blend of aromatic spices. This hearty dish is often slow-cooked to perfection and served with a side of fresh bread.
Chopska, a refreshing mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, onions, and feta cheese, all drizzled with a splash of olive oil and vinegar (Photo: Wikimedia Commons)
The city has plenty of traditional mehanas or taverns that serve up hearty portions of Bulgarian comfort food in a cosy, often folkloric atmosphere. Here, you can enjoy dishes like gyuvech, a slow-cooked stew with various meats and vegetables, and chopska, a refreshing mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, onions, and feta cheese, all drizzled with a splash of olive oil and vinegar.
Bulgarian Rakia, a potent Bulgarian brandy made from fermented grapes or plums (Photo: Wikimedia Commons)
And one can wash it all down with a glass of rakia, a potent Bulgarian brandy made from fermented grapes or plums. It is a popular accompaniment to meals and is often enjoyed as an aperitif. For a less potent but equally enjoyable drink, try Bulgarian wines, which are increasingly gaining recognition for their quality. The country’s diverse climate allows for the cultivation of a variety of grape types and local wineries offer a range of red, white and rose wines that complement Bulgarian dishes beautifully.
Getting festive
Another cultural aspect that sets Plovdiv apart from other places in Bulgaria is its lively festival scene. The city hosts numerous events throughout the year, celebrating everything from music and dance to literature and film. The Plovdiv Jazz Festival, held annually in September, attracts jazz enthusiasts from around the world with performances by renowned musicians. Similarly, the International Folklore Festival showcases traditional Bulgarian music and dance, providing a vibrant display of the country’s cultural heritage.
Plovdiv is a place where the old merges with the new in a seamless manner. Whether one is wandering through its ancient ruins, exploring its creative districts, or indulging in its traditional cuisine, the city truly offers travellers an immersive experience that is as diverse as it is captivating.