Shumen Plateau Park: A Natural and Historical Haven

Shumen Plateau Park, a protected area since 1980, is a captivating blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Located on the Shumen Plateau, near the city of Shumen, the park spans nearly 4,000 hectares and offers a diverse landscape of forests, karst formations, and panoramic views. The park's landscape features unique geological formations, including numerous caves like Biserna Cave (Pearl Cave) and Taynite ponori Cave, sinkholes, and picturesque valleys. Approximately 90% of the park is covered in forests, with mixed deciduous trees like beech, hornbeam, and oak dominating the landscape. The park is home to over 350 invertebrate and over 240 vertebrate species, including red deer, wild boar, and various reptiles and birds. Shumen Plateau has been inhabited since ancient times, with Thracian, Roman, and medieval settlements leaving their mark. The Shumen Fortress, a significant archaeological site, showcases the area's rich history. The Founders of the Bulgarian State Monument, built in honor of Bulgaria's 1300th anniversary, is also located within the park. Visitors can explore cave monasteries dating back to the Second Bulgarian Empire. The park offers various activities, including hiking, cycling, rock climbing, and paragliding. Marked tourist routes guide visitors to rock formations, forests, and historical landmarks. The park also features a Forest School with interactive ecological activities.