Haskovo: A Hidden Gem in Bulgaria's Heartland

• HelloЗдравей
  [Zdravey]
• GoodbyeДовиждане
  [Dovizhdane]
• YesДа
  [Da]
• NoНе
  [Ne]
• Please/You're welcomeМоля
  [Molya]
• Thank youБлагодаря
  [Blagodarya]
• Excuse me/SorryИзвинявайте
  [Izvinyavayte]
• How are you?Как си?
  [Kak si?]
• Fine. And you?Добре. А ти?
  [Dobre. A ti?]
• Do you speak English?Говориш ли английски?
  [Govorish li angliyski?]
• I don't understandНе разбирам
  [Ne razbiram]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseБих искал/а да видя менюто, моля
  [Bih iskal/a da vida menuto, molya]
• I don't eat meatАз не ям месо
  [Az ne yam meso]
• Cheers!На здраве!
  [Na zdrave!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseБих искал/а да платя, моля
  [Bih iskal/a da platya, molya]

• Help!Помощ!
  [Pomosht!]
• Go away!Махай се!
  [Mahay se!]
• Call the Police!Обадете се на полицията!
  [Obadete se na politsiyata!]
• Call a doctor!Обадете се на лекар!
  [Obadete se na lekar!]
• I'm lostЗагубен съм/съм загубен
  [Zaguben sam/sam zaguben]
• I'm illБолен съм
  [Bolen sam]

• I'd like to buy...Бих искал/а да купя...
  [Bih iskal/a da kupya...]
• I'm just lookingСамо разглеждам
  [Samo razglezhdam]
• How much is it?Колко струва?
  [Kolko struva?]
• That's too expensiveТова е твърде скъпо
  [Tova e tvyrde skapo]
• Can you lower the price?Можете ли да намалите цената?
  [Mozhete li da namalite tsenata?]

• What time is it?Колко е часът?
  [Kolko e chasat?]
• It's one o'clockЕдин час е
  [Edin chas e]
• Half past (10)Половин след (10)
  [Polovin sled (10)]
• MorningСутрин
  [Sutrin]
• AfternoonСледобед
  [Sledobed]
• EveningВечер
  [Vecher]
• YesterdayВчера
  [Vchera]
• TodayДнес
  [Dnes]
• TomorrowУтре
  [Utre]
• 1Едно
  [Edno]
• 2Две
  [Dve]
• 3Три
  [Tri]
• 4Четири
  [Chetiri]
• 5Пет
  [Pet]
• 6Шест
  [Shest]
• 7Седем
  [Sedem]
• 8Осем
  [Osem]
• 9Девет
  [Devet]
• 10Десет
  [Deset]

• Where's a/the...?Къде е...
  [Kade e...]
• What's the address?Какъв е адресът?
  [Kakav e adresat?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Можете ли да ми покажете (на картата)?
  [Mozhete li da mi pokazhete (na kartata)?]
• When's the next (bus)?Кога е следващият (автобус)?
  [Koga e sledvashtiyat (avtobus)?]
• A ticket (to ....)Билет (до ...)
  [Bilet (do ...)]

Haskovo's history can be traced back to the Neolithic period. The area was initially settled by the Thracians, an ancient civilization known for their rich culture and advanced metallurgy. Archaeological finds, such as the ruins near the village of Aleksandrovo, showcase the Thracian presence and their burial practices, including the famous Thracian tomb with its intricate frescoes.

During the Roman era, Haskovo became a significant part of the Roman province of Thrace. The Romans established roads, fortifications, and settlements, enhancing the region's strategic importance. Artefacts from this period, including coins and pottery, have been unearthed, revealing the extent of Roman influence in the area.

In the medieval period, Haskovo was integrated into the First Bulgarian Empire under the rule of Khan Krum. The city flourished as a trade and cultural hub. The construction of fortresses and monasteries during this time highlights the city's strategic and religious significance. Notable sites include the ruins of the medieval fortress near the village of Klokotnitsa.

Haskovo fell under Ottoman rule in the late 14th century, which lasted for nearly five centuries. During this period, the city underwent significant cultural and architectural transformation. Ottoman architecture, such as mosques and baths, became prominent. The Eski Mosque, one of the oldest in the region, was constructed during this era and remains a testament to the city's Ottoman heritage.

The 19th century marked a period of national revival for Haskovo. The city became a center for Bulgarian cultural and educational activities. Schools and churches were built, and local resistance against Ottoman rule grew stronger. The liberation of Bulgaria in 1878 was a pivotal moment, leading to Haskovo's integration into the newly established Bulgarian state.

In the 20th century, Haskovo experienced rapid industrialization and modernization. The city expanded with new infrastructure, including factories, schools, and hospitals. The Monument of the Virgin Mary, erected in 2003 and recognized by the Guinness World Records, symbolizes Haskovo's cultural and spiritual heritage. This era also saw the city's population grow and its economy diversify.

Today, Haskovo is known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant community. Annual festivals, museums, and historical sites attract visitors from around the world. The Regional Historical Museum of Haskovo offers extensive exhibitions on the city's past, from ancient Thracian artifacts to modern history. Haskovo continues to celebrate its diverse cultural legacy while embracing contemporary developments.

Haskovo is located in southern Bulgaria, approximately 230 kilometers from Sofia, the capital city. The nearest major airport is Plovdiv Airport, which is around 80 kilometers away. From Plovdiv, you can take a bus or rent a car to reach Haskovo. Regular bus services also connect Haskovo to other major Bulgarian cities like Sofia and Burgas. If you prefer train travel, there are train services from Sofia to Dimitrovgrad, which is just a short bus or taxi ride away from Haskovo.

Public buses and taxis are the most common forms of transportation within Haskovo. Buses are frequent and cover most parts of the city, making them a convenient option for short distances. Taxis are also readily available; make sure to use licensed taxis and ensure the meter is running. For exploring the surrounding areas, renting a car is advisable, as it offers flexibility and ease of travel.

The official currency in Bulgaria is the Bulgarian Lev (BGN). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops in Haskovo. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments, markets, or in case of technical issues with card machines. ATMs are readily available throughout the city for cash withdrawals.

Haskovo is generally a safe city for tourists. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and be cautious with your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but always stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are well-equipped to handle emergencies. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available throughout the city where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches, dress conservatively and cover your head if required. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers or mothers with children. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a firm handshake and maintain eye contact. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food and drink offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it may be considered impolite.

To experience Haskovo like a local, consider visiting the local markets, particularly the Haskovo Market, where you can buy fresh produce and handmade goods. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the Monument of the Holy Mother of God, the world's tallest statue of the Virgin Mary, and the nearby Uzundzhovo Church, which has a fascinating history as both a mosque and a church.