Vratsa is one of the five Bulgarian cities that have received an invitation to participate in the International Tourism Exhibition in Paris in 2017. The recognition was given because of the very interesting presentation of the city during the Cultural Tourism Exhibition in Veliko Tarnovo. The program of the presentation of the city includes: "Legacy of the King" – wine ritual in which silver vessels, replicas of Thracian treasures, are used; "Bread of God" - an artistic demonstration and tasting of traditional dishes from the Vratsa region and ritual bread kneading with authentic tools that were used 8000 years ago.

People who are familiar with this region of the country know about the route to the Okolchitsa Peak that many take during Botev Days; about the Skaklya Waterfall (the second highest in Bulgaria) and the "Ledenika" cave. The Vratsa Balkan is an ideal place for tourism - rock climbing, cave hiking and paragliding. In recent years, however, the municipality has been actively developing cultural tourism. The focus of the tourist season this year has been placed on two anniversaries – 30 years since the finding of the main part of the Rogozen treasure and 140 years after the death of Bulgarian poet and revolutionary Hristo Botev. What else does the region have to offer? More from head of the Regional Museum of History in the town, Georgi Dimitrov:

“We know that the region of Vratsa is characterised by amazing natural beauty. The Balkan Mountains provide wonderful opportunities for hiking. Speaking about cultural tourism - it should be developed in combination with the other attractions that the region offers. A number of festivals related to folk customs, and local cultural traditions are traditionally organised in Vratsa But I can point out two particular festivals – the Vreme (Time) international festival, which is organized every two years and young people from nearly 8 countries take part in it. For the third consecutive year a festival that initially started as an experiment will also take place. This is a festival of ancient cultures "Sun of Todorka" related to the historical findings in the prehistoric settlement and ritual center of Ohoden. Among the innovations are a camp built next to the archaeological site and a stage where various historical re-enactments will take place. They are part of our experimental activities aimed at attracting people's attention and stimulating patriotism. Visitors at this festival show huge interest in the so-called Archaeological School in which young people and students can follow into the steps of Indiana Jones, discovering various artefacts.”

Unfortunately, the state does not provide support and it is the municipality that supports archaeological research and the development of cultural tourism in the region.

The picturesque region of Vratsa allows tourists to travel through time and find themselves at the most amazing places in different eras. Treat yourself with a walk through the Bulgarian National Revival, the medieval period, the times of ancient Thracians and the Neolithic Age that you will never forget.

English: Alexander Markov