Varna, Bulgaria

We arrived in Varna at 8am to a clear and sunny sky (YEA!!). Varna is the second largest city in Bulgaria, and sit’s on the eastern coast on the Black Sea. Modern Varna is fast becoming the gateway to the Bulgarian resort area as they struggle with the trials of becoming an independent nation. While there isn’t really a lot to see in Varna, to stroll around the city and see the people and how they live can be interesting.

We had another private tour booked and met our guide and driver outside the port terminal. The first place we went was outside the city to an area of ruins. These ruins are of unknown origin and are somewhat unique. The area consists of beach type sand complete with seashells, and numerous rock formations that appear to be collapsed columns suggesting a city/town environment. We were told that several geologists have visited the site and studied it but still have not confirmed it’s origin.

From there we went to the Aladja Monastery which provides a fascinating look at a traditional religious retreat. The monastery is a collection of cave dwellings that were carved from the limestone cliff face. Originally approximately 100 monks lived there until hunted down by the Turks and killed. It was very interesting walking through the dwellings and trying to imagine what life was like for the monks that lived there.

From there it was off to the remains of the Roman Thermae or Baths. Built in the 2nd century it was quite intriguing trying to imagine what the original structure looked like. It is a very large area and was one of the largest baths built.

After visiting a few other areas of the city, it was time for lunch. Once again, it was taken at one of the local restaurants where tourists rarely find. Located on the oldest street in the city, it was very nice and the food was superb. The picture today is from inside the restaurant.

As a general note, the prices of things in Varna appear to be very reasonable. We tasted some local wine at the restaurant and enjoyed it very much. I asked where we could purchase a bottle, and they took me around the corner to a very small grocery type store where I bought two bottles of it for about $3.75 per bottle.

Tomorrow we are in Sevastopol Ukraine. I have hopes that we have time to see the Russian submarine pens during our tour there but there may not be enough time to get there.

Until tomorrow, Cheers!!