On Saturday 11 April, I had the chance to visit the city of Stara Zagora, the capital of the region of the same name. The city offers a wealth of opportunities: from nature to culture to history, there’s something for everyone. It was a very enjoyable and enriching experience because, whilst I immersed myself in the culture and history of the city and of Bulgaria, I also savoured its natural beauty.

The first stop on the trip was the Defenders of Stara Zagora Memorial Complex and the Samara Flag Monument, impressive and gigantic architectural structures erected in remembrance of the heroic and tragic events that have befalled the city during the Russo-Turkish War of Liberation. The first thing that struck me was undoubtedly the sheer scale: standing at the foot of this gigantic memorial, I felt tiny; another aspect that struck me was the atmosphere of solemnity that pervades the place.

The second stop on the trip was a journey back in time: first to the amazing Antique Forum of Augusta Traiana, and then to the Regional Museum of History, where I saw numerous collections of archaeological finds dating from the Neolithic Age through the Roman Empire right up to the 19th century. As well as displaying ancient artefacts, this museum has a special feature: it is built on an original section of the ancient Roman road Cardo Massimo of Augusta Traiana, which can be visited in the building’s basement. Knowing that you are walking along a truly authentic Roman road and seeing capitals and columns dating back to the Roman Empire is a truly wonderful experience.

I then visited the beautiful Zagorka Lake, located in Bedechka Park, a dip in nature just a few kilometres from the city centre and an ideal spot for a stroll and some relaxation.

The day ended with a visit to the external part of Metropolitan Methodius Koussev Park, a huge and beautiful park where one can lose oneself in every sense, and a visit to the beautiful Saint Nicholas Church.

For me, it was certainly a wonderful and enriching day during which I was able to see, discover and learn new things about Bulgarian history and culture.

Chiara Novo

Italy