Attractions and Places To See in Shumen Region - Top 13
Attractions and places to see in Shumen Region encompass a variety of historical landmarks, natural features, and cultural sites. The region is characterized by its plateau, dense forests, and karst formations, offering diverse landscapes for exploration. It holds significant historical importance with ancient fortifications and monuments marking key periods of Bulgarian history. Visitors can explore a range of sites from rock reliefs to archaeological reserves.
Best attractions and places to see in Shumen Region
- The most popular attractions is Madara…
Last updated: May 20, 2026
Madara Fortress Ruins
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Khan Krum Rock Monastery
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Madara Rider Relief
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Madara Caves
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Daul Tash (Kapishte) Ruins
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Shumen Fortress
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Yard of the Cyrillic Alphabet
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Shrine of Boris I of Bulgaria
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Saints Cyril and Methodius Monastery, Veliki Preslav
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Veliki Preslav Archaeological Reserve
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Huge rock and stone structures can be seen here.
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The construction of the monastery "St. St. Cyril and Methodius" in Old Preslav is connected with the 1000th anniversary of the Assumption of St. Methodius in 885, the conversion of the Bulgarians in 864, but subsequently also 1000 years from the reign of Simeon the Great. For the implementation of the idea, the Fourth Ordinary National Assembly in 1884 decided to erect a temple-monument. Construction began at the end of 1897, but was completed only in 1918. The works were finally completed in 1926 and the following year 1927, when the 1000th anniversary of the reign of Simeon the Great was completed, the temple was consecrated by Metropolitan Simeon of Varna and Preslav.
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The Veliki Preslav National Historical-Archaeological Reserve and Museum is located on the remains of the old Bulgarian capital Veliki Preslav and occupies about 500 hectares of the area. It was founded on October 26, 1906. The museum exhibits parts and objects from the city found during the excavations. There are numerous immovable monuments in and around the reserve, and the museum's exposition presents works of Middle Byzantine and Old Bulgarian art. Over 35,000 objects are stored here, and about 1,700 of them are on display for visitors. Among them, you can see unique items such as the Preslav golden treasure, the ceramic icon of St. Theodore Stratilatus and the Ceramic Iconostasis from the Palace Monastery.
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This rock monastery is located on the Shumen Plateau, near the village of Khan Krum, on the western slope of the Kalugera Boaz. The monastery is reached by a spiral staircase cut into the rock, which at the end passes into a corridor leading to the premises. For the rock monastery next to the village of Khan Krum, a natural cave was used, which was further adapted and finished for the needs of the monks. The temple is artfully and precisely carved right into the rock. The monastery church is distinguished from other rock churches in the region by having a conch shell. Besides the church there is another large room which was probably used as a bedroom.
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In the V-II centuries BC. the Thracians built the first fortified settlements. In the II-IV century period, it functioned as a dominant fortress guarding important Roman roads. In the 5th–6th centuries, it was a Byzantine stronghold, guarding the approaches to Stara planina. In the late Middle Ages (XII–XIV centuries), the Shumen fortress became one of the most important urban centers of the Second Bulgarian Kingdom. Captured by Ali Pasha in 1388, the fortress also existed in the early period of Ottoman rule. In 1444, during the clash of the crusaders led by Vladislav III Jagielo with the Turkish garrison, it was destroyed and burned. Today, the Shumen fortress is exhibited as an open-air museum.
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A rock staircase with 386 steps climbs the Madar Plateau. It leads to the Madar Fortress. It existed until 1386-1388, when it was conquered by the Ottomans. It is shaped like an irregular triangle with a gate on the north side. Its walls are high and built of hewn stone. Foundations of a church can be seen inside.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in the Shumen Region?
The Shumen Region is rich in history. You can visit the Madara Rider Relief, a UNESCO World Heritage Site carved into a 100-meter-high cliff. Another significant site is the Shumen Fortress, an archaeological site with a history spanning 3200 years, now an open-air museum. Don't miss the Veliki Preslav Archaeological Reserve, which showcases the remains of the old Bulgarian capital, and the Khan Krum Rock Monastery, a unique cave monastery carved into the rock.
What natural attractions are there in the Shumen Region?
The Shumen Region offers diverse natural beauty. The Shumen Plateau Nature Park features dense forests, meadows, and eco-trails. You can explore the Madara Caves, which have been used since ancient times, or seek out the unique rock formations like The Eye of Osmar (Okoto Rock form) and The Stone Forest, known for their mystical atmosphere.
Are there family-friendly activities in the Shumen Region?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Yard of the Cyrillic Alphabet is a cultural site celebrating the creation of the Cyrillic alphabet, which can be an engaging educational experience. The Veliki Preslav Archaeological Reserve also offers plenty of space for exploration and learning about ancient history.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near the attractions?
The Shumen Region is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous hiking and mountain biking trails. For hiking, consider routes like the 'Madara Fortress Ruins – Madara Rider Relief loop' or the 'Shumen Fortress loop'. If you're into mountain biking, there are trails such as 'View of Shumen – Mermaid Cave loop'. You can find more details and routes in the Hiking in Shumen Region and MTB Trails in Shumen Region guides.
What is the best time of year to visit the Shumen Region?
The Shumen Region is enjoyable throughout the year, but spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for exploring historical sites and hiking in the Shumen Plateau Nature Park. These seasons provide comfortable weather for outdoor activities and sightseeing without the peak heat of summer or the chill of winter.
How long should I plan for a visit to Shumen Fortress?
The Shumen Fortress is an extensive archaeological site. To fully explore the open-air museum, including its restored sections and unearthed artifacts, you should plan for at least 2-3 hours. This allows time to appreciate its 3200-year history and the panoramic views it offers over the city of Shumen.
Is there parking available near the Madara Rider Relief?
Yes, parking is generally available near the Madara Rider Relief. It is a popular tourist destination, and facilities are typically provided for visitors to access the site. It's advisable to arrive earlier in the day during peak season to secure a spot.
Are there any significant religious sites in the area?
Beyond the Khan Krum Rock Monastery, the Shumen Region is home to the Tombul Mosque (Sherif Halil Pasha Mosque) in Shumen, which is the largest mosque in Bulgaria and one of the largest in the Balkans. Its unique 18th-century architecture is a notable cultural highlight.
What is the Monument to 1300 Years of Bulgaria?
The Monument to 1300 Years of Bulgaria, also known as the Founders of the Bulgarian State Monument, is an imposing Cubist-style concrete structure located on a plateau above Shumen. Erected in 1981, it commemorates the 1300th anniversary of the First Bulgarian Empire, featuring towering sculptures and a mosaic illustrating Bulgarian history and culture.
Can I find easy hiking trails in the Shumen Region?
Absolutely. The Shumen Region offers several easy hiking trails, perfect for a relaxed walk. Examples include shorter loops like 'Madara Fortress Ruins – Madara Rider Relief loop' and 'Hiking loop from Shumen'. For more options, consult the Easy hikes in Shumen Region guide.
What is the significance of the Veliki Preslav Archaeological Reserve?
The Veliki Preslav Archaeological Reserve is highly significant as it preserves the remains of Veliki Preslav, which was the second capital of the First Bulgarian Empire. It spans about 500 hectares and houses numerous monuments and over 35,000 artifacts, offering a deep dive into medieval Bulgarian history and art.
Are there any museums worth visiting in Shumen?
Yes, the Regional Historical Museum in Shumen is a prominent cultural institution. It traces its origins back to 1857 and houses over 150,000 items, including a Thracian tomb, collections of Bulgarian and Byzantine seals and coins, and a golden Thracian treasure, covering the region's history from ancient times to the present.
Most popular attractions in Shumen Region
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