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Neolithic Dwellings

The Geo Milev Drama Theater

The Ayazmoto Park

The Stara Zagora Region, located at the crossroads of multiple civilizations, has a particular glow coming out of its past - hidden in the depth of millennia. Inhabited by Thracians, Ancient Greeks, Romans, Slavs, Ottomans, and Bulgarians, this antique land bears the immortal historical testimony of its past civilizations. Stara Zagora's Neolithic dwellings (the earliest traces of human activity in Europe from the 7th - 6th millennium BC); the Karasura archaeological excavations near Chirpan; the ruins of the ancient Roman Forum at the center of Stara Zagora, and the Thracian tomb in Kazanlak are among its countless historical treasures.

The town of Stara Zagora has been burned to the ground and raised from ashes in a number of devastating fires. Less than 150 years ago, it was resurrected from ruins. Stone by stone and brick by brick, it was rebuilt. It has entered the modern era as an important cultural center and as a vital thriving community with tree-lined streets, lively cafes and beautiful parks.

CULTURE / LIFE STYLE

The Stara Zagora Region has a cultural tradition with an impressive number of talented poets, writers, artists, musicians, and actors. Stara Zagora's National Opera Theater, founded in 1925, is the first provincial opera company in Bulgaria and continues to provide world class operas. The Geo Milev Drama Theater presents outstanding classical theatrical productions. The State Puppet Theater has toured Europe and the Middle East performing with excellence.

Numerous cultural events take place throughout the year - the Festivals of the Opera and Ballet Arts, of the Old City Song, of the Children's Song, Thrace Sings and Dance Festival; and the St. Lazar's Days rituals of folk song and dance and many others.

The city's life style offerings include museums, libraries, art galleries, a brass band, cinemas, sport stadiums, an equestrian training center, Roman ruins, and many lovely parks. Eternally green, the Ayazmoto Park dominates the northern section of the city with 939 acres of exotic trees, an astronomy observatory, a zoo, children's playgrounds, a sports complex and an open-air theater, where the National Festival of Gypsy Music and Songs is held each summer. It is a popular weekend gathering place.

The Valley of the Roses is magically transformed with breathtaking blooms in May and early June each year when "The Festival of Roses" is celebrated. The capital of the rose growing region is Kazanlak where rose picking rituals and folklore displays are presented. The Museum of the Rose Industry is also located in Kazanlak.