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Varna Museum of Archaeology: A Treasure Trove of Bulgarian History

Explore Bulgaria's ancient past at the Varna Museum of Archaeology, home to the world-renowned Gold of Varna and a vast collection of historical artifacts.

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The Varna Museum of Archaeology, housed in a stunning Neo-Renaissance building, showcases the rich history of the Varna region from the Paleolithic Age to the Middle Ages. Its most prized possession is the Gold of Varna, the oldest worked gold in the world, dating back to 4600-4200 BCE.

A brief summary to Varna Museum of Archaeology

  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the museum's extensive collection.
  • Visit during the week to avoid weekend crowds.
  • Check the museum's website for information on temporary exhibitions and events.
  • Consider taking a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the exhibits.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Varna's city center (e.g., near the Varna Cathedral), the museum is easily accessible on foot. Head east on бул. „Княз Борис I“ (Knyaz Boris I Blvd) towards the Black Sea. Turn right onto бул. „Княгиня Мария Луиза“ (Knyaginya Maria Luiza Blvd), and you'll find the museum on your left. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    Varna has an extensive public transportation network. Several bus lines stop near the museum. Look for buses that stop at "Museya" or "Sevastopol". Bus lines 7, 9, 12, 14, 109, 148 and 409 are options. A single ticket costs 1 BGN and can be purchased on the bus.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Varna. A short taxi ride from the city center to the museum will typically cost between 5-10 BGN, depending on traffic and distance. Be sure the taxi is licensed and uses a meter.

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Discover more about Varna Museum of Archaeology

The Varna Museum of Archaeology, established in 1887, is a treasure trove of artifacts that narrate the story of human civilization in the Varna region. Located in a beautiful Neo-Renaissance building designed by architect Petko Momchilov, the museum itself is a historical landmark, initially constructed as a girls' school in the late 19th century. The museum's extensive collection spans various historical periods, from the Paleolithic Age to the Middle Ages. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring prehistoric tools, Thracian treasures, ancient Greek and Roman relics, and artifacts from the medieval Bulgarian and Byzantine Empires. The museum also boasts a significant collection of early Bulgarian belt decorations and jewels. However, the undisputed highlight of the museum is the Gold of Varna. Discovered in a necropolis in 1972, this collection of gold artifacts is the oldest worked gold in the world, dating back over 6,000 years. The sheer quantity and artistry of the gold objects, including bangles, necklaces, and earrings, are truly breathtaking. Beyond the Gold of Varna, the museum also houses a remarkable collection of icons from the 14th to 19th centuries, ranking second only to the National Museum of History in Sofia. The museum's diverse exhibits and well-preserved artifacts offer a fascinating glimpse into the region's past, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and anyone interested in exploring the rich cultural heritage of Bulgaria. During the summer, the museum's internal yard is used as an open-air space for cultural events like concerts, performances and film screenings.

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