Shumen Province

Shumen Province in northeastern Bulgaria is rich in early Bulgarian history. It is home to the Madara Rider UNESCO site, the first Bulgarian capitals Pliska and Preslav and the town of Shumen with its fortress and museum.

Reasons to Visit

• See the Madara Rider bas-relief of a knight carved into a cliff
• Visit the ruins of Pliska, the first Bulgarian capital
• Explore Veliki Preslav Archaeological Reserve
• Climb to Shumen Fortress for panoramic views
• Experience local life at Shumen’s Regional History Museum

Things to Avoid

• Touching or climbing on rock reliefs
• Removing artifacts from archaeological sites
• Straying off marked trails at fortress sites

Local Transportation Tips

Buses connect Shumen to Varna and Sofia. A car is recommended for exploring archaeological reserves.

Travel Etiquette

• Respect barriers and signs at historical sites
• Refrain from making loud noises near archaeological monuments
• Dress modestly when visiting religious sites

Did You Know?

• The Madara Rider depicts a knight triumphing over a lion and includes inscriptions dated AD 705-801【365331629868744†screenshot】
• Pliska was the capital of the First Bulgarian Empire in the 8th and 9th centuries
• Shumen Fortress has remains from the Thracian, Roman, and Bulgarian periods

Cool Stats

• Madara Rider is carved 23 meters above the ground on a cliff 100 meters high
• Pliska archaeological reserve covers over 23 km²
• Shumen province has more than 500 historical monuments

Recommended Age Group

Shumen is most suitable for Adults, Teens and Seniors due to its mix of cultural heritage, outdoor activities and relaxing settings.

• Babies (0-2 years) - Not recommended: uneven terrain, long tours, and limited facilities
• Kids (3-12 years) - Recommended: museums, parks, and easy trails
• Teens (13-19 years) - Highly recommended: adventure activities and cultural sites
• Adults (20-64 years) - Highly recommended: diverse culture, cuisine, and nature
• Seniors (65+ years) - Recommended: accessible attractions and a slower pace

Accessibility Level: Medium

• Many attractions offer step-free access and accessible restrooms, though some historic sites may have stairs
• Book accessible rooms in advance as not all hotels have roll-in showers
• Use low-floor buses and trams where available to avoid steps
• Check individual attractions for sensory aids like audio guides or tactile displays
• Verify current accessibility details directly with providers before travel.