Kyustendil is a city in southwestern Bulgaria, located in the Kyustendil Province. It is the administrative center of the province and the largest city in the region. Kyustendil is known for its hot springs, its ancient ruins, and its stunning mountain views. Here are the top 20 places to see in Kyustendil, Bulgaria.
1. Rila Monastery – This 10th century monastery is one of the most important cultural and historical sites in Bulgaria. It is situated in the Rila Mountains and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The monastery is known for its stunning architecture, frescoes, and religious artifacts.
2. The Old Town – Kyustendil’s old town is full of historical and cultural attractions. The old town is home to the Kyustendil Museum, the Kyustendil Art Gallery, and the Kyustendil Historical Museum.
3. The City Park – The City Park is a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery. The park is filled with lush gardens, fountains, and sculptures.
4. The Kyustendil Fortress – The Kyustendil Fortress is a 12th century fortification that was built to protect the city from invaders. The fortress is open to the public and offers stunning views of the city.
5. The Hot Springs – Kyustendil is known for its hot springs, which are believed to have healing properties. The hot springs are located in the city center and are a popular attraction.
6. The Church of St. George – This 12th century church is one of the most important religious sites in Bulgaria. The church is home to stunning frescoes and is open to the public.
7. The Roman Baths – The Roman Baths are a set of ancient baths located in the city center. The baths are open to the public and are a great way to learn about the history of Kyustendil.
8. The Stone Bridge – The Stone Bridge is an impressive bridge that spans the Struma River. The bridge is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
9. The Roman Forum – The Roman Forum is a public square located in the city center. The forum is home to several ancient ruins and is a great place to learn about the history of Kyustendil.
10. The Kyustendil Fortress Museum – The Kyustendil Fortress Museum is located inside the Kyustendil Fortress. The museum is home to a collection of artifacts and documents related to the history of Kyustendil.
11. The Church of St. Dimitar – This 12th century church is located in the city center. The church is home to stunning frescoes and is open to the public.
12. The Kyustendil Art Gallery – The Kyustendil Art Gallery is home to a large collection of art from the region. The gallery is a great place to learn about the art of Kyustendil.
13. The Monument of Freedom – The Monument of Freedom is a memorial to the victims of the Bulgarian-Ottoman War. The monument is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
14. The Kyustendil Zoo – The Kyustendil Zoo is a great place to learn about the wildlife of the region. The zoo is home to a variety of animals, including lions, tigers, and bears.
15. The Monastery of St. John the Baptist – This 13th century monastery is located in the city center. The monastery is home to stunning frescoes and is open to the public.
16. The Kyustendil Natural History Museum – The Kyustendil Natural History Museum is home to a collection of artifacts and documents related to the natural history of Kyustendil. The museum is a great place to learn about the region’s flora and fauna.
17. The Monument of the Unknown Soldier – The Monument of the Unknown Soldier is a memorial to the victims of World War I. The monument is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
18. The Church of St. Dimitar – This 12th century church is located in the city center. The church is home to stunning frescoes and is open to the public.
19. The Monastery of St. Nicholas – This 13th century monastery is located in the city center. The monastery is home to stunning frescoes and is open to the public.
20. The Kyustendil Mineral Baths – The Kyustendil Mineral Baths are a set of hot springs located in the city center. The baths are believed to have healing properties and are a popular attraction.