Medieval Town of Cherven
WORKING HOURS:
The site operates by prior appointment only during the winter period.
From April to November
9:00 to 18:00
No days off
CONTACTS:
Cherven
24 “Han Asparuh” Street
Phone: 082 825 002
TO THE VIRTUAL ROOM
HISTORY
The medieval town of Cherven is located about 30 km south of Ruse, in the canyon of the Cherni Lom River. The area has been inhabited since Thracian times, and in the 6th century a Byzantine fortress was established here. The town became especially significant during the 13th–14th century, in the period of the Second Bulgarian Empire, when it became an episcopal seat and an important administrative, military, and economic center.
In the 14th century, Cherven reached its peak — with fortress walls, a citadel, residential quarters, 13 churches, workshops, streets, and a water supply system. In 1388 it was conquered by the Ottoman Turks and gradually abandoned. Today the archaeological reserve is open to visitors, and excavations reveal a rich urban life. The impressive battle tower has been restored and is accessible.
INTERESTING FACTS:
Cherven was the second most important city after Tarnovo
In the 14th century, Cherven became the second most significant city after the capital Tarnovo, with strong fortifications and spiritual status.
It had secret water-supply tunnels to the river
Archaeologists discovered underground tunnels leading from the citadel to the Cherni Lom River — used during sieges to secure water supplies.
The tower of Cherven inspired the reconstruction of “Baldwin’s Tower” in Tarnovo
The only restored tower in Cherven served as a model for building the famous tower in the Tsarevets fortress during the 1930s.
GALLERY:
