Nativity of Mary Cathedral

The Nativity of Mary Cathedral in Veliko Tarnovo

The cathedral dedicated to the Nativity of the Mother of God is one of the representative churches of Veliko Tarnovo, the former capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire and one of the most beautiful historic towns in Bulgaria. Set in the old centre, on the steep slopes above the Yantra River, it belongs to that townscape of houses clinging to the rock, churches and craft workshops that give Tarnovo its unmistakable charm.

What to see

As an active Orthodox church, the cathedral preserves the Bulgarian tradition of icon painting, with an iconostasis, icons and the contemplative atmosphere typical of the town churches of the region. The greatest reward of a visit, though, is the setting: the cobbled streets of the old quarter, the panorama towards the Tsarevets fortress and the nearness of the artisans of Samovodska Charshia street.

Practical

The cathedral stands in the historic centre of Veliko Tarnovo, easily reached on foot during a stroll through town. As an active place of worship, respect the service times, dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) and keep quiet inside. It is naturally combined with the Tsarevets fortress, the Asenova quarter and the town's other medieval churches. With a 4.5 rating, visitors value it as part of the authentic Tarnovo experience.