Plovdiv – history and entertainment

Plovdiv is the second-largest city in Bulgaria after the capital Sofia, and also is one of the oldest European settlements, founded 4000 years B.C. from the ancient Thracian tribes. Later on Plovdiv has become an important city in the Roman Empire. There were many bloody battles followed by diplomatic issues until at last, by 72 BC the Roman army leader Terentius Varro Luculus took control over the Maritza River Valley and the Romans began calling it Trimontium ( The Three Hills City ). Later Trimontium became center ef the vast Trakia Romana Province. In The 2 and 3 centuries the city was declared metropolis of the province with a Senate of its own and was authorized to collect taxes and cut own coins. The Romans were quick in realizing the strategic location of Trimontium and began building strong  roads, administrative buildings, temples, public baths, stadiums and theatres as well. Trimontium had modern water supply and sewage systems. It was famous  with its large stadium, amphitheatre, public baths, but the most important building was the Roman Preatorium - the Residence of the Imperial Governor of the Thrace Province, where the Emperor when visiting.

The city is full with cozy restaurants, pubs and bars where you can taste a local dishes and traditional alcohol drinks. Bulgarian cuisine represents Southeastern Europe and share common characteristics with other Balkans cuisines. Famous for its rich salads required at every meal, it’s also noted for the diversity and quality of dairy products. Most Bulgarian dishes are oven baked, steamed, or in the form of stew. Deep-frying is not very typical, but grilling - especially different kinds of meats - is very common. Pork meat is the most common meat in the Bulgarian cuisine. Oriental meals do exist in Bulgarian cuisine with most common being moussaka, gyuvetch, and baklava. A very popular ingredient is the Bulgarian white brine cheese called "sirene". Bulgaria is significant wine producer and exporter of variety of red and white wines. No doubt that the visitors are most impressed from the famous local alcoholic drink “rakia” - made of grape, peaches or other fruits (usually homemade).

In the very center of the Old Town is situated “Plovdiv Guesthouse” It is elegant property in historic hub, just a few minutes away from the ancient Roman Stadium. The hostel offers cheap and comfortable accommodation combined with all you can eat continental breakfast, many facilities and warm ambience. There are variety of rooms decorated in cool tones and natural materials and the prices starts from 10 Euro per bed including breakfast. Plovdiv Guesthouse welcomes you with 5 twin rooms, 2 x 4-bed rooms, 3 x 8 bed dorms and 1 x 10 bed dormitory. Additionally there are common room with TV and DVD, wireless Internet access, reception service 24 hours, modern fully equipped kitchen, laundry services and more.

It is highly recommended to make a reservation in advance!

Information and reservation:
Bulgarian Youth Hostel Association
19 Patriarh Evtimii blvd
Sofia, Bulgaria
www.bghostels.com