The National History Museum stands as one of the most extensive and opulent historical institutions on the Balkan Peninsula. Boasting a repository of over 700,000 cultural artifacts, it narrates the narrative of Bulgaria’s territories from 8,000 years ago to the present day. However, only a fraction, merely 10%, of this vast treasure trove finds a place within the museum’s exhibition halls. Established in 1973, the National History Museum is a testament to Bulgaria’s rich and diverse past.
The museum’s primary exposition unfolds across five halls, each delving into distinct historical periods. The journey through time begins in the Prehistory hall, showcasing bone and flint tools, idol figurines, ornaments, and ceramics from the VII-II millennium BC. Another hall is dedicated to the remarkable treasures of the Thracian era, including the renowned Panagyur, Rogozen, and Letni treasures, alongside discoveries from the village of Duvanlii and various grave goods and ornaments found across the country.
Medieval history takes center stage in a special hall, dividing the era into the First (VII-XI centuries) and Second Bulgarian Kingdoms (XII-XIV centuries). Visitors encounter an array of jewelry, coins, decorative ceramics, icons, and reliquaries. Transitioning to the period of Ottoman rule (1396-1878), the museum narrates the Late Middle Ages (XV-XVII century) and the Bulgarian Revival (XVIII-XIX century), covering the struggle for independence, revolutionary activities, the April Uprising of 1876, and the liberation of Bulgaria in 1878.
Continuing the historical journey, a dedicated space elucidates Bulgaria’s history post-Liberation until 1946, showcasing over 600 exhibits that elucidate the evolution of the new Bulgarian state. A poignant section is devoted to Bulgarian monarchs, displaying personal belongings and material evidence from the period of renewed statehood (1878-1946).
A separate hall houses ancient coins, including treasures from the time of Tsar Ivan Assen II (1218–1241) and Tsar Ivan Alexander (1331–1371), along with Byzantine coins. The museum’s ethnographic collection features a meticulous reconstruction of a revival school. In the courtyard, a diverse collection of stone columns and monuments from different periods, including Greek, Roman, and Byzantine, adds an architectural dimension to the historical narrative. Visitors can explore the museum’s library and indulge in souvenirs, information materials, and specialized literature. The National History Museum offers a comprehensive exploration of Bulgaria’s rich heritage.
Prices:
Adults: BGN 10.00.
Pupils and students: BGN 2.00.
Visitors accompanied by children – BGN 4.00, and for children over 7 years – BGN 2.00.
Work time:
April – October:
Monday – Sunday:
09:30 – 18:00
November – March:
Monday – Sunday:
09:00 – 17:30
