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Tower of Baldwin: A Medieval Sentinel

Explore the reconstructed Tower of Baldwin in Veliko Tarnovo's Tsarevets Fortress, a landmark of medieval Bulgaria with panoramic views.

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The Tower of Baldwin, located within the Tsarevets Fortress in Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria, is a reconstructed medieval tower with a storied past. Named after Baldwin I, Emperor of Constantinople, it stands as a reminder of Bulgaria's medieval power and conflicts.

A brief summary to Tower of Baldwin

  • 5800, ul. Tsarevets, Veliko Tarnovo, Tsarevets, BG

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain within Tsarevets Fortress, including the approach to Baldwin's Tower, can be uneven.
  • Visit in the late afternoon for stunning sunset views over Veliko Tarnovo from the tower.
  • Combine your visit to Baldwin's Tower with the Tsarevets Fortress Sound and Light Show for a magical evening experience.
  • Check for combination tickets that include entry to Tsarevets Fortress, Trapezitsa, and other historical sites to save money.
  • Consider visiting during weekdays or off-season for a less crowded and more serene experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Veliko Tarnovo, walk towards Tsarevets Fortress. Follow the signs to Tsar Asen Square, which marks the entrance to the fortress. The walk to the top of the hill takes approximately 20-30 minutes. Once inside Tsarevets, follow the path along the southern fortified wall to Baldwin's Tower. Note that the terrain can be uneven.

  • Public Transport

    Take bus lines 5, 20, 40, 50, 100, 4, 13, or 30 to Tsarevets Fortress. These buses stop near the Velchova Zavera Square, a short walk from the fortress entrance. Purchase a single-ride ticket on the bus for approximately 0.70 BGN.

  • Taxi

    From anywhere in Veliko Tarnovo, take a taxi to Tsarevets Fortress. A short taxi ride to the fortress entrance will typically cost between 2-3 BGN. Taxis are readily available throughout the city.

  • Driving

    Drive towards Veliko Tarnovo and follow the signs to Tsarevets Fortress. Park in the designated parking area near Kraybrezhna Street at the foot of Tsarevets Hill. Parking costs approximately 2 BGN per hour. From the parking area, walk up the path to the fortress entrance.

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Discover more about Tower of Baldwin

The Tower of Baldwin, a prominent feature of the Tsarevets Fortress in Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria, is steeped in history and legend. The original tower was part of the fortress's defenses, guarding the Frenkhisar Gate, the southern entrance to Tsarevets. The tower's name is derived from Baldwin I of Flanders, also known as Baldwin IX, the Latin Emperor of Constantinople, who was reportedly imprisoned and possibly died here after being captured by Tsar Kaloyan in the Battle of Adrianople in 1205. However, the tower that stands today is a reconstruction, built in 1930 by architect Alexander Rashenov, modeled after a preserved medieval tower in the Cherven Fortress near Rousse. Visitors can climb the 15-meter-high stone tower and enjoy panoramic views of Veliko Tarnovo and the Yantra River. The tower connects to a walking path from the city center, allowing tourists to explore the medieval defense systems and water reservoir protection. The tower is a symbol of the Second Bulgarian Empire and its clashes with the Crusader forces. Legend has it that Queen Tselguba fell in love with the imprisoned Baldwin, adding a romantic, albeit tragic, layer to the tower's history. While exploring Tsarevets Fortress, don't miss the opportunity to visit Baldwin's Tower and immerse yourself in the rich history and breathtaking scenery of this medieval Bulgarian capital.

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