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Church of Saint Paraskeva: A Medieval Gem in Nessebar

Discover a beautifully preserved medieval church in Nessebar, showcasing intricate architecture and a rich history as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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The Church of Saint Paraskeva, located in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Nessebar, Bulgaria, is a partially preserved medieval Eastern Orthodox church dating back to the 13th-14th century. Featuring a single-nave design and rich exterior decorations, it offers a glimpse into the area's rich religious history. Today, it functions as a museum showcasing art from other destroyed churches.

A brief summary to Church of Saint Paraskeva

Local tips

  • Visit in the late afternoon or early evening for a less crowded and more serene experience.
  • Check out the museum exhibition showcasing surviving murals from lost Nessebar churches.
  • Take your time to admire the intricate exterior decorations, including the blind arches and ornamental details.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Church of Saint Paraskeva is located in the heart of Old Nessebar, making it easily accessible on foot from most points within the old town. From the entrance of the old town, near the Archaeological Museum, walk straight ahead along the main street, 'ul. Mitropolitska'. After approximately 200 meters, turn left onto 'ul. Mesambria'. The church will be on your right, a short distance down the street. There are no specific costs associated with walking to the church.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving in Nessebar by bus from Sunny Beach or Burgas, disembark at the bus stop in New Nessebar. From there, you can take a local bus (lines 1, 2, 3, 4) to the Old Town. The ride is short, and the ticket costs approximately 4 BGN. Once in the Old Town, follow the walking directions above to reach the church.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in both New and Old Nessebar. A short taxi ride from New Nessebar to the Church of Saint Paraskeva in the Old Town will typically cost between 7.6 BGN to 15 BGN, depending on the distance and traffic. Ensure the taxi meter is running or negotiate the fare beforehand.

  • Parking

    If driving, parking is available near the entrance to the Old Town. However, parking can be limited, especially during peak season. Several parking lots charge around 2 BGN per hour or 12-20 BGN per day. From the parking area, walk into the Old Town and follow the walking directions to the church.

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Discover more about Church of Saint Paraskeva

The Church of Saint Paraskeva is a captivating medieval church located in the heart of Old Nessebar, a town brimming with history and charm. Likely constructed in the 13th or 14th century, this Eastern Orthodox church is a significant part of the Ancient Nessebar UNESCO World Heritage Site. While its original dedication remains uncertain, the church stands as a testament to the rich religious and architectural heritage of the region. The church features a single-nave design with a wide, pentagonal apse on its eastern side. Built with a mix of bricks and smoothed stones, incorporating a pseudo-opus mixtum technique with wooden beams, the structure showcases the architectural styles prevalent during its time. The exterior is adorned with two rows of richly ornamented blind arches, adding to its visual appeal. Over the arches, you'll find decorative ornaments, including round and glazed saucers. The entrance to the church is located on the south wall. Though the dome and belfry that once topped the narthex are no longer present, remnants of a stone staircase hint at the tower's past existence. Inside, the walls bear traces of original frescoes. Today, the Church of Saint Paraskeva functions as a museum, hosting exhibitions such as "Surviving murals from lost Nessebar churches". This exhibit displays recovered mural paintings from other churches, like St. George “the Elder” Church, offering visitors a chance to appreciate the artistry of the past. Visiting the Church of Saint Paraskeva provides a unique opportunity to step back in time and immerse yourself in Nessebar's medieval atmosphere. Its well-preserved architecture and historical significance make it a must-see attraction for history enthusiasts and anyone seeking to explore the cultural treasures of this ancient town.

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