The reason I chose to stay in this area of the Bulgarian Riviera was because of Old Nessebar. I was not interested in beach resort area’s that are only there for tourism. I wanted history and to be surrounded by beauty. Well, I found the old world charm of Nessebar to be exactly what I was hoping for.
Old Nessy
This town has been around since the Thracian’s settled here in the 6th century BC. It has gone through vast transformation since then, depending on who the conqueror was. There are many old stone ruins from ages gone by, but what occupies this island now is predominately Bulgarian Revival architecture from the 18th and 19th centuries.
Old World
The Bulgarian Revival period brought about a very specific type of architecture that usually consists of houses having a stone base and wooden upper floors. I was able to view these houses extensively in Old Town Plovdiv. There, they have been preserved and made into museums so visitors can view not only the stunning exteriors but intricately painted interiors as well.
Here in Old Nessebar, the old wooden houses have remained unpainted. In fact, it doesn’t look like the wood was every covered at all. Many of the original buildings retain the ancient old timber that has developed a beautiful weathered patina. You know, the coastal dryness and heat of the sun that bleaches the wood, turns it shades of grey and brown and just looks soooo beautiful.
Paired with the vibrancy of the grape trellises and brightly coloured geraniums, and you have the makings for gorgeous old-world charm.
Streets
All of the streets in Old Nessebar are cobblestone, some newer than others. Walking can be a little hazardous especially since for me anyways, I am always gazing up and around at my surroundings.
Those stone streets though, paired with the buildings, take you back to a time of horse drawn carriages meandering through a seaside fishing village.
Everything about this place is utterly charming, quaint and lovely. I walked around town, once again this morning. Making sure to arrive before the masses. I had the place to myself. As I wandered through the empty streets and alleys, I was able to let my mind wander and soak in all of the magical history that flows through this village.
