The village of Arbanassi is an unique monument of Bulgarian architecture and has been proclaimed an architectural reserve and is included in the UNESCO's world heritage list of valuable cultural sites.
     Located in immediate proximity to the former Bulgarian capital Veliko Tarnovo (only at a distance of 4km northeast), with its unique tradition in architecture, marvellous nature and specific Aegean climate, Arbanassi definitely has to be a part of your itinerary in the country. It offers all a unique experience, but also tranquillity, comfort and relaxation.
     Christians who had come from the southwestern parts of the Balkans founded this unique settlement at the end of the 15th century. In 17-18th centuries the village reaches its "Golden age".Arbanassi attracts thousands of tourists from all over the world each year by its old fortress type of dwellings from the 16th and the 17th centuries. The Arbanassi houses have no equivalent in building and style in other parts of the country. They impress with their austere external architecture with solid stone walls and heavy gates that contrasts the cosiness and comfort of the interior - beautifully decorated ceilings, doors, cupboards, fireplaces, windows and walls. In the village of Arbanassi there are 80 preserved houses, 36 of which has been proclaimed national monuments of culture. The most interesting amongst them are the Kostanzalieva House and the Hadjiilieva.
     The church played a very significant role in the social life of Arbanassi. So another architectural treasure of the village is the existence of five preserved churches and two monasteries from the 17th century. Almost deprived of decoration on the outside, their insides are richly decorated with beautiful carvings and wall paintings. The oldest and the most interesting one is "Nativity" church hiding a genuine art gallery with over 3500 stunningly realistic figures and Biblical scenes, painted by unknown artists throughout the ages.
     The church played a very significant role in the social life of Arbanassi. So another architectural treasure of the village is the existence of five preserved churches and two monasteries from the 17th century. Almost deprived of decoration on the outside, their insides are richly decorated with beautiful carvings and wall paintings. The oldest and the most interesting one is "Nativity" church hiding a genuine art gallery with over 3500 stunningly realistic figures and Biblical scenes, painted by unknown artists throughout the ages.
     Other landmarks that are worth mentioning are the St. Virgin Mary convent which can be found at the very beginning of Arbanassi and the monastery of St Nikola which lies at the other end of the village and can complement a visit in the neighbourhood.