Assens’ Monument & The Boris Denev State Art Gallery

The Monument of Assens can be seen from most angles of the old Tarnovo town, from purpose built viewpoints to the many cafes and bars whose terraces overlook this giant landmark. It represents the victory of the four Bulgarian kings: Peter, Assen 1st, Kaloyan and Ivan Assen 2nd who regained Veliko Tarnovo from the Ottomans.

Flanked on horseback, it was built in 1985 to honour the 800^th anniversary of their victorious achievement of returning vt into the great city it once was back in the 12^th and 13^th Second Bulgarian Empires.

Arriving at the art Gallery takes a walk over the Yantra via the Stambolov Bridge which was built in 1892. The gallery opened in 1934, was named after Boris Devov, famous Bulgarian artist and depicts artists’ impressions of Veliko Tarnovo through the decades. Although the collections are relatively small, the gallery hosts over 5000 paintings, sketches and sculptures with the second floor is dedicated to visiting artists and exhibitions.

In the summer months there are various concerts and festivals including a jazz festival and a rock festival and even if you don’t participate, you’ll still be able to hear the music from the town.

Open: every day except Monday, 10am – 6pm

Admission: adults 3lv; kids and students 1lv

As with all museums and tourist sites, admission is free on the last Thursday of every month.