Understand

Welcome to the historical town of Sliven! This vibrant town has a rich and fascinating past that dates back to the 7th - 11th centuries. Arabian geographer, Idriss, was the first to document the town in 1153, referring to it as Intilifounos. Over the years, the town underwent various name changes, from Silimno to Slivno. In 1388, the Turks conquered Sliven, completely destroying it. However, the city was liberated in 1878 during the Russian-Turkish War, marking a significant turning point in its history. During the Bulgarian national revival, Sliven became a thriving center of crafts and trade, utilizing the power of its three rivers. It played a pivotal role in shaping Bulgarian identity, with many notable Bulgarians, including Hadzi Dimitar, Dobri Chintulov, and Ivan Seliminski, being born here. In fact, in 1836, the first woolen textile factory in Bulgaria was established in Sliven. Today, the town proudly preserves its rich history, offering a captivating experience for visitors to explore. Experience the unique climate and geography of Sliven, located in the sub-Balkan region, approximately 100km from the Black Sea. The mild climate features warm summers, a long autumn, wet spring, and mild winters. With average temperatures of 23.2°C in the summer and 1.2°C in the winter, Sliven is a destination that can be enjoyed throughout the year. Be prepared for the "bora" wind, which blows through Sliven for almost 50% of the time, adding a touch of natural wonder to your visit.

Get in

Discover the beauty of Sliven through an unforgettable train journey that showcases the stunning Bulgarian countryside. Sliven is conveniently located on the Sofia-Burgas railway, offering regular train services throughout the country. Embrace the charm of traveling by train as you witness the awe-inspiring vistas unfold before your eyes. Trains from Sliven connect to various destinations such as Sofia, Burgas, Stara Zagora, Ruse, Plovdiv, Kazanlak, and Varna. However, it is advisable to check the train schedules beforehand, as sometimes the train may be a faster option while other times it may take longer than a bus. The train station in Sliven is situated near the Nadezhda neighborhood, located in the southern part of the city. For more information and to plan your train journey, visit the National Train's website at http://bdz.bg/index-en.php. If you prefer exploring Sliven and its surroundings by bus, the city offers a small bus station that provides regular services to major cities and regional villages. Buses depart several times a day to popular destinations such as Sofia, Plovdiv, and Veliko Tarnovo, enabling you to delve into the rich culture and history of these remarkable places. Hourly buses are available for those looking to travel to Burgas and Stara Zagora, providing a seamless and convenient journey through breathtaking landscapes. To find the bus station in Sliven, head a few blocks south of the prominent Bila grocery store. Choose the mode of transportation that suits your preferences, and embark on an unforgettable adventure through the enchanting city of Sliven!

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

1. Shopska Salad (Шопска салата): This traditional Bulgarian salad is a vibrant mix of tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, onions, and garlic. It's often served with feta cheese and olive oil, giving it a tangy and refreshing taste. The ingredients are typically sourced locally and are found in abundance in the region.

2. Banitsa (Баница): A staple in Bulgarian cuisine, banitsa is a filled pastry traditionally made with a mixture of fresh and dried herbs, cheese, and butter wrapped in layers of thin dough. Often served warm as a breakfast or brunch item, it may also be enjoyed at any time of day accompanied by a side of yogurt, fruits, or a spoonful of sweetened compote.

3. Moussaka (Мусака): This hearty and comforting Greek-inspired dish consists of layers of eggplant or potato, ground meat (usually beef or lamb), and a rich béchamel sauce flavored with cinnamon, nutmeg, and other warm spices. The casserole is then topped with grated cheese, typically kashkaval, and baked until bubbling and golden brown.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing