The Targovishte province is the gateway to the eastern mountains where the forests hold hidden cities. Your main destination is the ancient fortress of Missionis which is hidden deep in the woods on a rocky hill. You can drive to the base and hike up a shaded trail to find the remains of massive stone walls and early Christian churches. This was a major trade center that connected the mountains to the sea in the medieval era. It is a quiet and atmospheric site where you can explore the ruins without the big crowds found in other cities.
The drive continues to the town of Targovishte which is known for its long history of trade and its famous spring fair. You can walk through the old quarter to see the traditional houses and the tall clock tower that marks the center of the town. The city is surrounded by low green hills that are perfect for a relaxed drive through the countryside. It is a place where the pace of life is steady and the people are proud of their local traditions. The area is also famous for its high quality white wines which you can find in the local shops.
Finish your trip by visiting the nearby Borovo treasure site where a beautiful silver set from the Thracian era was found. You can see the intricate cups shaped like animal heads in the local museum and learn about the kings who used them for wine rituals. The province is full of small historical markers and quiet spots where you can pull over and enjoy the view. It is an authentic and peaceful part of the country that is perfect for a slow exploration by car. This province offers a calm look at the hidden trade routes of the past.
Targovishte (province) highlights
- Missionis Fortress hides as a stone city in the woods located on a high and rocky hill. Walk the quiet trails to see the walls and the ruins of the ancient hilltop churches. Explore a very peaceful site where you can see history without any other crowds nearby.
- Targovishte Tower stands as a tall stone clock tower in the heart of the old town market. View this landmark of the city to see the history of the local trade and daily life. Start a walk in the center from this spot to see the best of the local architecture.
- Borovo Treasure displays intricate silver cups shaped like animal heads found in a northern field. See these fine items in the museum to learn about the kings who used them for wine. View some of the best silver work ever found in the country from the ancient times.
- Lomtsi Dam provides a quiet spot for fishing and a break during a drive through the north. Find many peaceful spots along the water to enjoy the view of the rolling green hills. Stop the car to enjoy a picnic in a place where nature stays calm and quiet.
- Vardun Fortress reveals ruins of a medieval stronghold tucked away in the green and quiet hills. Explore this hidden gem to see wild and overgrown stones without any other people around you. Feel the mysterious and old atmosphere of a site that once protected the local valley.
- Popovo Museum shows the history of the white town and the local land of the northern plains. Learn how the people lived and see the tools they used for farming and for their crafts. Visit this small and friendly museum to hear the story of the local people well.
- Dervent Gorge offers a scenic drive through a river gap in the eastern mountains with many rocks. Follow the winding road to see the wild side of the local nature and the rugged hills. Enjoy this beautiful part of a road trip which offers a look at the quiet mountains.
- Krumovo Lake exists as a small and peaceful lake surrounded by trees and quiet forest trails. Park the car and take a short walk in the fresh air around the calm blue water. Join the local people who come here on weekends to enjoy the simple beauty of nature.
- St. John Church stands as a beautiful stone church that serves as a symbol of the city and people. Sit in the quiet courtyard to see the local style of religious art and the old icons. Feel the peaceful and traditional atmosphere of this historic building in the center.
- Targovishte Spring provides a park where you can drink fresh and cold mineral water from the ground. Stop to fill a bottle during a long drive and enjoy a break in the quiet green area. Experience a popular local spot for health and for a rest in the northern land.
The local Four
History of Targovishte (province)
Targovishte is the City of the Fair. Its name comes from the Turkish word for marketplace, and for centuries, it was the site of the famous Eski Dzhumaya Fair, one of the largest trade events in the Ottoman Empire, drawing merchants from across Europe and Asia. This history of trade created a wealthy local merchant class, whose 19th century houses still stand in the city old quarter.
Deep in the hills lies the fortress of Missionis, an ancient and medieval city that was a vital strategic link between the capital of Veliko Tarnovo and the Black Sea. Archaeologists have discovered massive stone churches and a public bath system here, proving its importance as a regional hub. The province is characterized by the Dervent Gorge, a rugged natural pass that has been used by armies and traders for thousands of years.
A road trip through Targovishte offers a look at Hidden Northern History. You can explore the ruins of Missionis, visit the Popovo Museum to see the local Silver Hoards, or enjoy the quiet scenery of the Lomtsi Dam. It is a province of rolling green hills and quiet roads, where the history of the Great Fair and the mountain fortresses provides a glimpse into the commercial heart of the Balkans.