© Photo: Veneta Nikolova

Remains of the bishop's complex with an early Christian basilica - one of the most frequently visited sites in Sandanski

According to historical data, the famous leader of a slave rebellion against the Roman Empire was born in the town of Medius, where Sandanski was later built. That is why Spartacus has turned into a tourist logo for the region. A beautiful monument of the Thracian welcomes the guests to the town and a whole neighborhood was named after him, as well as the local stadium and a number of hotels and restaurants. A number of historical artifacts have survived to show us the rich history of Sandanski. The ancient Christian basilica downtown Sandanski is one of the popular tourist sites. The archaeological museum is nearby, as well as 550-year-old plane tree growing near an old marble fountain.

© Photo: Veneta Nikolova

The 550-year-old plane tree growing near an old marble fountain

Actually, there are a number of healthy mineral springs in Sandanski, which have made the town popular throughout the centuries. The soft climate and fresh air is also very good for those suffering from asthma. There are a number of places where you can stay in Sandanski, as the town offers about 3000 hotel beds during the whole of the year. Spa hotels offer different therapeutical programmes that are also attractive to visitors. Sandanski is also just 2-hours away from the sea beaches in Greece.

© Photo: Veneta Nikolova

There are many tourists who stop in Sandanski on their way to Greece, or just make one-day trips to the beaches, Maria Taushanova of the local association of tour operators and hotel owners says and adds:
“There are good opportunities for adventure tourism, for example rafting in the Struma River during the spring and autumn. There are 7-8 routes for mountain biking. One can get the information they need at the hotel receptions or the tourist information center in the town. Those who are more creative can learn about icon painting according to the old traditions or take some classes in woodcarving with local masters.”

The region of Sandanski is also famous for the rich folklore. Classes in dancing and singing are also organised for tourists and one can pay a visit to the villages of Pirin and Levunovo, where old traditions can be observed. Bulgarian cuisine and the culinary traditions in the region are also very popular among tourists.

“We found out that Scandinavians and guests from Germany show considerable interest in local art, while visitors from France are more interested in the local wine and cuisine. All tourists enjoy the local folk, including the Greek neighbors, who enjoy reenactments of marriage rituals in the villages of Pirin and Levunovo. Actually, when a foreigner marries a Bulgarian, they often prefer doing it according to old Bulgarian traditions,” Ms. Taushanova says.

English: Alexander Markov