During the period of the Second Bulgarian Kingdom, from the year 1185 to 1395, Bulgaria was the largest and the most powerful state in Southeastern Europe, and Tsarevets Hill was the main fortress of the medieval capital – Veliko Turnovo.

During the first centuries of the Roman rule the ancient settlement was deserted, but had been inhabited even as early as the 2^nd millennium B.C. After the abandonment, in once again became populated during the 4^th century, and by the 5^th century it had already become a strongly fortified early Byzantine town. During the 12^th century, the medieval fortress was raised on top of the foundations of this early Byzantine stronghold. Today there is partial restoration, although the entire fort has been well-studied. You can see how this fort was able to withstand many different periods throughout history as it consists of massive stonewalls, gates and towers. The official way to enter Tsaravets was through three huge gates which are located at the central entrance and situated on a narrow rocky isthmus. Here there was a draw-bridge, which was where the fortified King’s Palace was. An inner stonewall surrounded this area, and the Throne Hall, the Royal Church, and the royal chambers were situated behind this wall. At the top of the entire hill was the complex of the Patriarch’s Palace, which was restored in 1981 in honour of 1300 years from the creation Bulgaria and was painted in 1985 in honour of 800 years from the liberation of Vizantia. These paintings represent various moments during the history of Medieval Bulgaria.