The first Bulgarian capital – Pliska and The Great Basilica

The first Bulgarian capital – Pliska is located less than 30km from Shumen, towards Varna and if you are around, you should definitely visit it. Pliska was the capital of Bulgaria from the founding of the state in 681 by Khan Asparuh until 893 under Knyaz Boris.

The National Historical and Archaeological Reserve “Pliska” or the Old Town will take you centuries back and “tell” you how the Bulgarian state came into being.

What you will see?

The tour starts from the eastern gate, which was the main entrance to the fortress. A stone road leads to the “inner town”, which was the residence of the Bulgarian rulers and the most important part of the capital.

The first palace buildings were made entirely of wood. After they were burnt down by Nikephoros in 811, they were rebuilt entirely of hewn stone and brick. A brick enclosure wall also appeared to enclose the citadel. The construction techniques applied were of an extremely high standard. Thus, Pliska became one of the most representative and civilised capitals of early medieval Europe. This happened during the reign of Khan Krum and was followed by his sons Khan Omurtag, Malamir and Presian.

The last to rule from Pliska was Prince Boris-Mikhail, known as the “Conqueror of the Bulgarians”. Two of the most significant events for the Bulgarian people took place under his rule. The first was the conversion to Christianity in 864. The second was the conversion of the disciples of Cyril and Methodius in 886. This marked the beginning of the spread of Slavonic writing in Bulgaria. After Prince Boris dethroned his eldest son Vladimir-Rasate and it was decided that Simeon I should take his place (893), the capital was moved from Pliska to Preslav.

The National Historical and Archaeological Reserve “Pliska” is extremely well restored and I highly recommend a visit. There are comprehensive information boards in Bulgarian and English and, as well as the old town, visitors can also explore an exhibition of artefacts discovered during the excavations in the museum, as well as reach the Great Basilica along the paved road built more than 10 centuries ago.

The Great Basilica

The Great Basilica in Pliska was completed around 875 and was one of the largest and most beautiful basilicas of its time. It was deliberately built outside the walls of the Inner City to make it easily accessible to all. To this day, in addition to serving as a tourist attraction, it also functions as a location for wedding ceremonies and baptisms.

Translated with DeepL.com (free version)

Opening hours:
November – March 8:30h – 17:00h without day off
April – October 8:30h – 19:00h without day off

Admission Fee:
Adults – 7lv
Seniors – 5lv
Students – 3lv
Family ticket – 10lv / 12lv
Guided tour in Bulgarian – 15lv
Guided tour in a foreign language – 20lv