Assen Fortress or known in the past as Petrichka Fortress renamed in honor of Tsar Ivan-Asen II

Asenov Fortress is one of the most frequently visited tourist attractions near Asenovgrad. Without a doubt, one of the most attractive and interesting cultural monuments in the city. Located in the Rhodopes, 2 kilometers south of the city, on a rocky peak, by the left bank of the Asenitsa River.

Located on a rocky massif with an area of 12 acres, with steep slopes overhanging the river, it was difficult to pass from three sides. The strategic location was a natural defense of the area, which existed since the time of the Thracians, to guard the door of the Belomorski Pass.

The fortress was restored during the reign of the Roman Emperor Justinian, as one of the 300 fortresses prepared to defend against the offensive of Slavic tribes entering the empire.

The fortress tower was originally built by the Byzantines and grew over time, and subsequently two villages – Petrich and Stenimachos – were established nearby.

One of the first information about the fortress dates back to the 11th century, from the charter of the nearby Bachkovo monastery, created in 1083. Byzantine military commander Grigoriy Bakuriani laid the foundations of the monastery and gave him the village of Petrich and the nearby villages around it.

At that time, the fortress was in the possession of Romans, Byzantines, Thracians, Crusaders, Bulgarians and Ottomans, as evidenced by the archaeological excavations found during all periods of occupation, preserved in the Historical Museum – Asenovgrad. The discovered finds make the medieval Assen fortress one of the most visited and preferred places in the area. Among the long-term archaeological excavations and studies of the medieval fortress, the foundations of the feudal castle were discovered, consisting of a complex of residential buildings, a sacred temple of the church manager, a fortress tower with 2 reservoirs connected by stone staircases. Under the feudal palace, the so-called church yard with a well-preserved two-story church “St. Virgin Petrichka”, which remains one of the most remarkable symbols in the Middle Ages.

Visit one of the biggest landmarks of the city – Asenovgrad Fortress, a must-do on any excursion to Asenovgrad and its surroundings.