Discover Shumen Province

In Shumen Province, historical themes range from the early history of the Bulgarian state to music, architecture and extensive museum collections. Archaeological sites, museums and memorials each offer a distinct focus. When planning your trip, consider which interests you want to shape it: early history, exhibitions or perhaps a wine tour.

Pliska, Veliki Preslav and Madara

Pliska was the capital of the First Bulgarian Empire from 681 to 893. In 893, following the Church and People’s Council of Preslav, Veliki Preslav was declared the capital of the Bulgarian state. The two dates offer a clear point of comparison: Pliska remained the capital until 893; that same year, Veliki Preslav was declared the capital.

The National Historical and Archaeological Reserve of Veliki Preslav preserves the remains of numerous churches, monasteries, workshops, studios and palaces. The Archaeological Museum of Veliki Preslav displays, among other things, the Preslav Gold Treasure, a ceramic iconostasis and a unique collection of lead seals. Archaeological remains and selected museum objects thus offer different ways to explore the history of Veliki Preslav.

The Madara Rider, in the village of Madara in Shumen Province, has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1979. This enduring international recognition is a reason in its own right to include the site in your travel plans. The region brings together clearly identified historical sites with distinct points of reference in time.

Museums and cultural memorials

The Regional History Museum in Shumen preserves more than 150,000 museum objects dating from the 5th millennium BC to the 20th century. Its broad time span makes it a destination for travelers who want to explore different eras in a single collection.

The Lajos Kossuth House Museum combines the restored interior of a prosperous Bulgarian home from the National Revival period with a documentary exhibition about the Hungarian Revolution of 1848–1849. Two distinct subjects come together here: the furnishings of a home and an exhibition about a historical upheaval.

The Pancho Vladigerov Museum Complex traces the musical history of Shumen. This history extends from the founding of the first European music orchestra in the Bulgarian lands in 1850 to the achievements of Shumen’s musicians today. Visitors looking beyond archaeological and historical subjects to explore the history of music will find another regional focus here.

Shumen Fortress and the memorial complex

The first fortification at the site of Shumen Fortress is believed to have been built about 3,200 years ago. Guided tours of the fortress are offered in Bulgarian, Russian and English; check availability before your visit.

An asphalt road leads to Shumen Fortress from the direction of the Tombul Mosque, with signs along the way. As road conditions can change, it is advisable to check the route before setting out.

The Founders of the Bulgarian State memorial complex is located on a hill at an elevation of 450 meters. It forms a visual centerpiece for Bulgaria’s ancient sites of Pliska, Preslav, the Madara Rider and Shumen Fortress. The complex also presents Bulgaria’s cultural and social development from the 7th to the 10th century. Its elevation, named points of reference and historical period give this memorial a distinct place in the region’s history.

Wine tours and planning your visit

Tsarev Brod Winery offers wine tours that can be booked and paid for through its website. Check tour dates and availability before your trip. This makes it easy to include the experience in your plans.

A phone reservation is required in advance for a visit to Kabiyuk Stud Farm. Keep this requirement in mind when planning, and check it before your trip. Alongside its historical sites and museums, the region offers a variety of ways to tailor your stay to your interests.

Discover more destinations: Shumen, Kaspichan, Venets, Veliki Preslav, Preselka, Varbitsa, Kaspichan, Shumen, Veliki Preslav

Go to the main travel overview: Bulgaria.