Pleven: The Heartbeat of Bulgarian History and Culture

• HelloЗдравей
  [Zdravey]
• GoodbyeДовиждане
  [Dovizhdane]
• YesДа
  [Da]
• NoНе
  [Ne]
• Please/You're welcomeМоля
  [Molya]
• Thank youБлагодаря
  [Blagodarya]
• Excuse me/SorryИзвинете
  [Izvinete]
• 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 да видя менюто, моля
  [Bih iskal da vidya menuto, molya]
• I don't eat meatНе ям месо
  [Ne yam meso]
• Cheers!На здраве!
  [Na zdrave!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseБих искал да платя, моля
  [Bih iskal da platya, molya]

• Help!Помощ!
  [Pomosht!]
• Go away!Махай се!
  [Mahay se!]
• Call the Police!Обадете полицията!
  [Obadete politsiyata!]
• Call a doctor!Обадете доктор!
  [Obadete doktor!]
• I'm lostЗагубих се
  [Zagubi se]
• I'm illБолен съм
  [Bolen sam]

• I'd like to buy...Бих искал да купя...
  [Bih iskal da kupya...]
• I'm just lookingПросто гледам
  [Prosto gledam]
• How much is it?Колко струва?
  [Kolko struva?]
• That's too expensiveТова е твърде скъпо
  [Tova e tvurde skapо]
• 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)Половина на (10)
  [Polovina na (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/има...
  [Kade e/ima...]
• What's the address?Какъв е адресът?
  [Kakav e adresat?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Може ли да ми покажете (на картата)?
  [Moje 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 ...)]

The history of Pleven dates back to ancient times when it was a Thracian settlement known as Storgosia. Archaeological evidence suggests that the area was inhabited as early as the 5th century BC. The Thracians were known for their warrior culture and sophisticated metalwork, leaving behind artifacts that offer a glimpse into their way of life.

During the Roman era, Pleven became an important military and trade center. The Romans fortified the settlement and built significant infrastructure, including roads and bridges. The remains of Roman fortifications and buildings can still be seen in and around the city, serving as a testament to its historical importance.

In the medieval period, Pleven was a fortified town within the First Bulgarian Empire. The town played a crucial role in the defense against Byzantine and later Ottoman invasions. The medieval fortress in Pleven, although largely in ruins today, was a significant military stronghold that witnessed numerous battles and sieges.

Pleven fell under Ottoman rule in the late 14th century and remained part of the Ottoman Empire for nearly five centuries. During this period, the town developed as an important administrative and economic center. The Ottoman influence is evident in some of the architectural styles that can still be observed in Pleven.

The Siege of Pleven, also known as the Plevna Siege, was a critical battle during the Russo-Turkish War of 1877-1878. The siege lasted for five months and ended with the capture of the city by Russian and Romanian forces. This event was pivotal in the liberation of Bulgaria from Ottoman rule. The Pleven Panorama, a museum dedicated to the siege, offers a detailed and immersive experience of this historical event.

After the liberation, Pleven underwent significant changes and modernization. The city became a major cultural and industrial center in Bulgaria. Many of the buildings from this period reflect European architectural styles, illustrating the city's transition into a modern urban center.

Pleven is home to numerous cultural landmarks that reflect its rich history. The Pleven Epopee 1877, a large-scale panorama painting, and the Pleven Regional Historical Museum offer insights into the city's past. The Kaylaka Park, with its natural beauty and historical ruins, is another significant cultural site that attracts both locals and tourists.

Pleven is well-connected by various modes of transportation. The nearest major airport is Sofia Airport, located approximately 170 kilometers southwest of Pleven. From Sofia, you can take a direct train, bus, or rent a car to reach Pleven. The train journey takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, while the bus ride may take slightly longer. There are also regular bus services from other major Bulgarian cities, such as Varna and Plovdiv, to Pleven.

Pleven has a reliable public transportation system, including buses and trolleybuses. Tickets can be purchased from kiosks or directly from the driver. Taxis are also widely available and are relatively inexpensive. For a more flexible option, consider renting a car, especially if you plan to explore the surrounding areas. Pleven is a walkable city, and many of its attractions are within walking distance of each other.

The official currency in Bulgaria is the Bulgarian Lev (BGN). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops in Pleven. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and public transport. ATMs are plentiful throughout the city, and currency exchange offices are also available for converting foreign currency.

Pleven is generally a safe city for tourists. As with any destination, it is wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or unfamiliar areas. Keep an eye on your personal belongings, especially in crowded places like markets and public transport. There are no specific neighborhoods with high crime rates targeting tourists, but it is always best to stay vigilant.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance, which will connect you to police, fire, or medical services. Pleven has several medical facilities, including Pleven University Hospital, which offers emergency care. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available throughout the city for minor health issues.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do show respect for local customs and traditions. When visiting churches, cover your head and dress conservatively. Public Transport: Do respect elderly passengers by giving up your seat. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a firm handshake. A nod or bow of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it may be considered impolite.

To experience Pleven like a local, visit the local markets such as the Central Market Hall, where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Bulgarian goods. Engage with locals; they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city's history and culture. Don’t miss visiting the Pleven Panorama, a unique museum that provides an immersive experience of the Russo-Turkish War. For a leisurely activity, take a stroll through the Kaylaka Park, a favorite spot among locals for its natural beauty and recreational facilities.