Nessebar History

The very pituresque town of Nessebar in Bulgaria is one of the oldest towns in Europe. It is believed that the town has existed for more than 9,000 years and is the successor of the Tharacian settlement who gave the town its original name Messambria. It was then turned into a Greek colony by Dorian settlers and there was a theatre and a temple of the Greek God Apollo in it, followed the occupancy of a Roman garrison.

What gives Nessebar town its stunning features and quirky character today are the building that date from the 11th to the 14th centuries. It was ruled either by the Bulgarians or the Byzantines during this time. The peak of this development was during the reign of King Alexander I when the town was one of the most important centres in the Bulgarian State. The building are mainly churches with beautiful fascades and interioirs and are among the best perseved ones on the Balkan Peninsula.

In 1371, the town was enslaved by the Turks. During this time it was kept as an important harbour and after its liberation it was turned into a small fishing town, what it is known as today.

In 1956, the town was proclaimed an architectural and archeological reverve. The remanants of an antique fortified wall with a gate still stands and is truly breathtaking as you enter the old town. The churches in the old town, which are the fine works of the medival Bulgarian and Byzantine architecture, amongst the narrow cobblestone lanes give the town it's unique appearance and romantic atmosphere.

More Historical Information on Nessebar