Travel Guide Arbanassi (Арбанаси)

This village, 5 km from Veliko Tarnovo, was the summer residence of the Tarnovo aristocrats. But its golden age was between the 16th and 18th centuries, when it was a rich craft and trade center. During this period monumental houses were built, the interior of the churches was richly decorated with carved wood and murals. Today there are three colorful museum-churches (entrance fee), two monasteries and several churches. The houses of the Konstantsaliev and Hadjiyliev families, which have been transformed into museums, are also worth a visit. The riding club, at the eastern exit of the village, offers horseback riding.