Melnik

Melnik is located in a mountain region in the southwest foot of Pirin Mountain. It is surrounded by amazing sand pyramids, which are among the most interesting nature phenomena not only in Bulgaria, but on the Balkans as well. The area was settled in the Thracian Age. During that time the Thracian tribe called Medi lived there. Later, in the 5-6th century, the Slav tribes settled the area and gave the name of the town. In the middle of the 9th century, during the reign of Khan Presian, the town was integrated with the Bulgarian state and became an important strategic point. About 1209, Melnik experienced great progress, when it was a capital of the independent feudal principality of Despot Aleksius Slav. Later, in the time of the Bulgarian Revival, the town became economical and spiritual center with more than 25 000 inhabitants, about 1300 houses and more than 70 churches. The old houses of Melnik impress with their architecture, size, decorations and wine-cellars. Among the most famous houses are the Kordopulova House, the Pashova House, Veleva House, etc. Also interesting sights are the ruins of St. Nikola Monastery from the 13th century, the Slavova Fortress from the 13-14th century, the Roman bridge, the old sweating-bath, and the remains of several churches.

Location