Nova Zagora: Archaeology, History and Places to Visit

Those choosing Nova Zagora as a travel destination can shape their stay around history, archaeology and activities in the surrounding area. The Historical Museum has a wide-ranging collection; the nearby Karanovo settlement mound represents a long prehistoric period. A reservoir, mineral bath and marked ecological hiking trail offer options for different leisure interests.

Cultural History and Archaeology

The Historical Museum in Nova Zagora was founded in 1921 by the Zagorie Archaeological Society and history teacher Nikola Stefanov Koychev. Its collection comprises more than 40,000 objects, including archaeological, numismatic, historical-documentary, ethnographic and palaeontological materials. The range of fields provides broad access to history and culture, while the individual areas of the collection appeal to different interests.

The Karanovo settlement mound lies about ten kilometres from Nova Zagora and is considered one of Europe’s oldest prehistoric mounds. Its cultural layers cover all prehistoric periods from the Neolithic to the Bronze Age; the site was inhabited for approximately 3,000 years. The museum’s diverse collection areas and the sequence of archaeological layers at the settlement mound thus offer two different ways to explore the past. Artefacts from Karanovo are exhibited in museums in Sofia and Nova Zagora. If you would like to see specific finds, check the current exhibition arrangements before your visit.

Culture and Samardala

A National Amateur Theatre Festival was held in Nova Zagora in 2025. The 2025 Samardala Festival included a bazaar featuring products seasoned with samardala, as well as a culinary exhibition and a competition for dishes made with samardala. The festival thus combined the local connection to the herb with a culinary programme. If you plan to attend a festival, check the dates and programme in advance.

Excursions and Activities in the Surrounding Area

The Korten mineral baths are located in the Tundzha Valley, approximately 15 kilometres north of Nova Zagora. The spa resort is associated with 57°C mineral water and balneological treatment and prevention programmes. If you are planning a treatment, check the current offerings before your trip.

The nearby Zhrebechevo Reservoir offers facilities and opportunities for relaxation, fishing and water sports; its arms include fishing areas. Sport-fishing and canoe-kayak competitions have been held at the reservoir. This makes it a different focus for leisure activities than the archaeological sites. Check local conditions if you are planning specific activities on the water.

The peaks of Zubcheto and Kurt Kaya form the highest point in the municipality; Kurt Kaya reaches 542 metres. A marked ecological hiking trail leads along the ridge and is also suitable for inexperienced hikers. Check the trail conditions and markings locally before setting out. Compared with the reservoir, hiking is the focus along the ridge, while fishing and water sports are among the activities mentioned there.

Getting There and Finding Accommodation

Nova Zagora Municipality is served by both road and rail transport. Timetables and transport services may change, so check suitable connections for your travel dates. When comparing hotels, you can first decide whether museums and archaeology, a cultural event or an excursion will be the main focus of your trip. Then compare the location of the specific hotel and transport connections with your plans.

Discover more destinations: Sliven, Tvarditsa, Kotel, Ichera.

For the broader travel overview: Sliven Province.