Stara Zagora: Museums, Opera and Ayazmoto Park

Stara Zagora brings together archaeological heritage, performing arts, green spaces and attractions relating to the history of beer. The municipal Tourist Information Centre provides information about municipal tourist sites, including museums and natural attractions, as well as transport information for journeys to, from and within Stara Zagora. When planning your trip, you can decide what you would like to focus on during your stay: historical collections, cultural events, walks or activities with children.

Archaeology and Religious History

The centrally located Museum of Religions architectural complex preserves several archaeological layers: a cult pit from the Early Iron Age, a sanctuary of the Thracian Horseman, a medieval Christian cemetery church and a Muslim temple. The complex also includes the Eski Mosque. Its architecture is considered a national cultural monument from antiquity and the Middle Ages; its wall paintings are of national importance. Preserved elements of the cults are displayed in the complex. The site was fully conserved and restored in 2011. The different religious and historical traces can thus be viewed as parts of a multifaceted place.

The Museum of Neolithic Dwellings offers another glimpse into the past. It displays exceptionally well-preserved remains of a two-storey dwelling from the beginning of the 6th millennium BC. The exhibition also includes prehistoric pottery, figurines, jewellery and tools, as well as human figures made of marble. The dwelling and the objects on display each provide a distinct focus on early architectural history and the craftsmanship of the time.

The Museum of Horses and Horse Sports displays authentic carriages and wagons used by Prince Alexander of Battenberg, Prince Ferdinand and Tsar Boris III. If you are interested in historical modes of transport, this collection offers a different perspective on the past, complementing the city's archaeological and religious themes.

Performing Arts and the History of Beer

The Stara Zagora State Opera was Bulgaria's first opera outside the capital. Its programme includes opera, operetta, ballet, children's performances and concerts. The offerings range from musical theatre to dance and events for younger audiences. You can check in advance which performances are taking place during your trip.

The history of beer is also part of the cultural offering. The Zagorka World of Beer Museum presents the history of one of Bulgaria's oldest breweries and explains beer production techniques and technologies. The World of Zagorka beer tour ends with a tasting of unfiltered live beer. The museum and tour have different focuses: the former explores history and production, while the latter concludes with a tasting.

Ayazmoto, the Zoo and Outdoor Activities

The Metropolitan Methodius Kusev Park, also known as Ayazmoto, covers 3,200 decares and is used for walks, relaxation and recreation. Its features include centuries-old cypress trees, an avenue of fountains and the Chapel of St. Theodore Tyron. The park combines paths through a green space with notable trees and a religious building.

The park is also home to a ropes course, a children's attraction with a mandatory safety briefing and professional supervision. For horse-riding activities, Ahal Horse Base offers riding lessons and trail rides. These activities differ considerably: the ropes course combines the activity with a required briefing and supervision, while Ahal focuses on lessons and trail rides.

Stara Zagora Zoo is home to more than 400 specimens from around 80 mammal, bird and amphibian species. Its offerings include school trips and programmes for children's birthday parties. This means there are opportunities both to observe animals and to take part in programmes specifically designed for groups of children.

Which Focus Suits Your Trip?

For a culture-focused stay, the museums offer a range of subjects: religious layers and wall paintings, Neolithic dwellings or historical carriages. The opera adds a programme of stage performances to these attractions. If you would rather spend time outdoors, Ayazmoto, the ropes course, the zoo and horse-riding activities offer a variety of options. The municipal Tourist Information Centre provides information about municipal tourist sites and transport options to, from and within Stara Zagora.

Discover more destinations: Chirpan, Kazanlak, Radnevo, Shipka, Pavel Banya.

Return to the regional travel overview: Stara Zagora Province.