We arrive at Asen’s Fortress in Asenovgrad shortly before it opens and there is not much to see from the car park. However, from the road, the approach to the Fortress reveals an imposing stronghold dating to Thracian times (around 500 – 300BC). It remained a settlement throughout Roman times and then, during Emperor Justinian I’s reign (527 – 565AD), the settlement was redesigned. The Byzantine Emperor repurposed the stronghold into two parts: an upper fortified feudal castle; and a lower settlement. Tsar Ivan Asen II further expanded and strengthened the fortress during the 12th Century.
Once we have our tickets are are able to enter and Asen’s Fortress is a sight to behold. Perched on the edge of a cliff we navigate the (modern) staircase around to the pedestrian approach, the only way to access the Church and castle ruins. Today, only the Church of St. Mary of Petrich (12th Century) still stands. The church consists of a square vaulted bell tower with the main church building, built in the typical Eastern Orthodox style, adjacent to the tower. The cylindrical ‘dormitory’ on top collapsed in an earthquake in 1928 and has since been reconstructed.
We climb the stairs to enter the ground floor where there is a plain room that may have been a cellar or storage. Then, one level up, on entering the small church we are greeted by its most impressive feature – the 14th century frescos. We pause to consider the simple icons and artworks.
Further up the stronghold on the hill behind the church is the remains of the castle. Although the ruins are still laid out in a pattern that indicates how impressive the castle may have been, really it is the views from the top that is the main attraction on this spectacular day. From this high up we have clear views of the church, the valley below, down the pass to Asenovgrad, over the mountains and up the pass to the north. It is evident that this location was chosen as the crossroads of the passes connecting the north with the west through the mountain ranges.
After taking in the views and the fresh mountain air for a good while, we make our way back down the path and out to the small visitor centre.
Good To Know
Asen’s Fortress is open every day from 9am to 6pm, closing time is later during the high summer season. Entrance fee for adults is 4BGN, there are discounts available for students and groups. Tours are available in English and Bulgarian for an additional fee. Allow 30 minutes to an hour to fully appreciate this historic site.
Check the website for further information.
We toured Bulgaria with Adriana from Private Guide Bulgaria. See also:
Would I Return?
No. Although this is a fascinating place with lovey views, there is not enough here to warrant a special trip.
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