Nessebur
Nesebur, the ancient Mesembria, has a long and interesting history dating back more than 2,000 years. It prospered through trade with the Thracians but declined after the Roman conquest in the 1st century BC. Under Byzantine rule, Nesebur regained some of its former importance. Remains of the many churches built during this time can still be seen.
During the 9th century, Nesebur passed back and forth between Byzantium and Bulgaria, but the town remained unscathed. As the rest of Bulgaria grew, other cities took Nesebur’s place, resulting in a decline in active trading. Today, most residents of Nesebur make their living from fishing, tourism and a wine producing industry.
The town sits on a small peninsula connected to the mainland by a narrow isthmus. Scattered through town are several medieval churches.Winding, cobblestone streets are lined with stone and timber houses. Characteristic of their architecture is a style of horizontal strips of white stone and red brick, offset by striped arches that rest on vertical pilasters.The façades are highlighted by ceramic discs and rosettes. Nesebur, appearing like a small island, is compact enough to make exploration on foot an easy and pleasurable activity.
Varna
Situated on the Black Sea, a favourite with tourists from the former Eastern Bloc and home to half a million dolphins, Varna is one of Bulgaria’s principal cities. The seaside resorts of Drouzhba and Zlatni Pyassatsi are well worth a visit though the city itself has plenty to offer the visitor. Druzki Street is full of very reasonably priced restaurants and bars whilst there are numerous museums, a zoo, an art gallery and a Roman Thermae to explore.
