Varna history

The history of Varna is rooted in deep antiquity, making it one of the oldest cities in Europe. Over the millennia of its existence, the city has lived through several eras, each leaving its unique mark on its cultural and architectural landscape.

Foundation and Antiquity

The city was founded in the 6th century BC by Greek colonists from the city of Miletus on the site of an older Thracian settlement. Initially, it was named Odessos. Due to its strategic location on the shores of the Black Sea, Odessos quickly transformed into a thriving trade and cultural centre (polis). During the Roman period, beginning in the 1st century BC, the city retained its significance, as evidenced by the ruins of the majestic Roman Thermae, one of the largest in the Balkans.

The Middle Ages and Modern Name

After the fall of the Roman Empire, the city became an important port of Byzantium. In the 7th century, Slavic tribes arrived here and gave the city its current name — Varna. During the periods of the First and Second Bulgarian Empires, Varna was a key trade and fortress city. In the 13th and 14th centuries, it conducted active trade with Genoa and Venice. Later, the city became part of the Ottoman Empire, and in 1878, it was finally liberated and became part of modern Bulgaria.

Key Factors of Development

• Geographical Location: Its location on the Black Sea coast determined Varna's destiny as an important seaport, commercial, and military-strategic centre throughout its entire history.
• Trade: The city has always been a crossroads of trade routes connecting it with Thrace, the Mediterranean, and other regions.
• Cultural Influence: Varna has absorbed the traditions of Thracians, Ancient Greeks, Romans, Slavs, and Bulgarians, creating a rich and diverse cultural heritage.

Chronology of Key Events in the History of Varna

Varna, one of the most ancient cities in Europe, possesses a rich and multi-layered history. Key moments of its past reflect the changing of eras, cultures, and empires that have shaped the modern appearance of this Black Sea city.

Ancient World and Antiquity

• 5th millennium BC — The prehistoric "Varna Culture" flourished in this territory, leaving behind the Varna Necropolis with the oldest processed gold in the world.
• 6th century BC — Greek colonists from Miletus founded a city-polis named Odessos on the site of a Thracian settlement.
• 15 BC — Odessos was incorporated into the Roman Empire, becoming part of the province of Moesia.
• 2nd–3rd centuries AD — The city reached its peak during the Roman period, evidenced by the construction of monumental public buildings, including the famous Roman Thermae.

The Middle Ages

• 395 AD — After the division of the Roman Empire, the city became a vital port and defensive centre for Byzantium.
• 7th century — Slavs arrived in the region, and the city gradually acquired its modern name — Varna.
• 681 — Varna became part of the newly formed First Bulgarian Empire, serving as one of its key centres.
• 1393 — The city was conquered by the troops of the Ottoman Empire and turned into an important coastal fortress.
• 10 November 1444 — The famous Battle of Varna took place at the city walls, where the united army of Crusaders suffered defeat against Ottoman forces.

Modern and Contemporary History

• 27 July 1878 — As a result of the Russo-Turkish War, the city was finally liberated and became part of independent Bulgaria.
• 1886 — The first railway line in Bulgaria was opened, connecting Varna with the city of Ruse on the Danube and, consequently, with Central Europe.
• 1949–1956 — During this period, the city temporarily bore the name Stalin.
• 1972 — During construction works, the Varna Chalcolithic Necropolis was accidentally discovered, becoming an archaeological sensation of a global scale.

Key Milestones in the Development of Varna

The history of Varna is not merely a change of eras, but a continuous process of transformation, where each period left an indelible mark on the economy, culture, and appearance of the city. Below are the main stages that defined the modern character of Bulgaria's "Maritime Capital".

• Transformation into a Transport and Trade Hub (End of 19th Century): After the liberation in 1878, the rapid development of Varna began. The construction of Bulgaria's first railway line Varna–Ruse (1866) and the subsequent connection with Sofia, as well as the modernization of the port in 1906, turned the city into the country's main maritime and railway hub. This gave a powerful impulse to economic growth, trade, and international relations.
• Establishment as a Major Seaside Resort (Early 20th Century): In 1921, Varna was officially declared a seaside resort. The construction of central sea baths, hotels, and the development of the Sea Garden attracted the Bulgarian and European elite to the city, laying the foundations of the tourism industry, which remains one of the key economic sectors today.
• Architectural Flourishing and Formation of a European Look: At the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries, the city experienced a construction boom. During this period, iconic buildings in Neoclassical, Art Nouveau, and Art Deco styles were erected, forming the aristocratic appearance of central Varna. Many of these structures, created by Bulgarian and foreign architects, are still architectural monuments and symbols of the city.
• Industrialization (Mid-20th Century): In the socialist period, Varna became a major industrial centre. Shipbuilding (creating one of the largest shipyards in the Balkans), mechanical engineering, and the chemical industry received particular development. This led to population growth and the construction of new residential districts, radically changing the social and urban structure of the city.
• Discovery of the Varna Necropolis (1972): The accidental discovery of a necropolis from the 5th millennium BC with the world's oldest processed gold became a global archaeological sensation. This discovery not only rewrote the understanding of prehistoric Europe but also turned Varna into an important centre for scientific research, significantly raising its cultural significance on the world stage.
• Development of an Educational and Cultural Centre: The founding of key higher education institutions, such as the University of Economics, the Medical University, and the Naval Academy, affirmed Varna's status as a leading educational hub in Bulgaria. The establishment of prestigious cultural events, for example, the International Ballet Competition, brought the city worldwide fame in the sphere of arts.
• Modern Transformation (Late 20th – Early 21st Century): With the transition to a market economy, Varna is actively modernizing. The development of the international airport, logistics centres, the IT sector, and the service industry has diversified the city's economy. Varna has established itself as a dynamic business and tourism centre, attracting international investment and becoming one of the fastest-developing cities in Bulgaria.

The architectural appearance of Varna is a fascinating journey through the centuries, reflecting its rich history from antiquity to the present day. The greatest influence on the formation of the modern city centre was exerted by three key eras, each of which gifted Varna its unique styles and iconic structures.

The "Golden Age" of Varna Architecture (Late 19th – Early 20th Century)

After the Liberation in 1878, Varna experienced a true construction boom, striving to acquire a European appearance. This period gave the city an eclectic mix of styles that formed its aristocratic centre. On the streets, especially on the former main street "Preslav", one can see elegant buildings combining Neoclassicism, Neo-Baroque, Art Nouveau (also known as Secession), and Art Deco. Many projects were created by talented Bulgarian and foreign architects.

• Iconic Buildings: Bright examples of this era include the Stoyan Bachvarov Dramatic Theatre, designed in the French Renaissance style with elements of Viennese Baroque, the Navy Club, and the elegant Hotel Royal (1905). Many revenue houses and mansions in the centre are adorned with exquisite decor, bay windows, and turrets characteristic of Art Nouveau.

The Era of Socialist Modernism (1944 – 1989)

With the arrival of the socialist regime, the architecture of Varna changed radically, adhering to principles of functionality and mass construction. This period is characterized by the appearance of large residential complexes ("panel blocks") on the outskirts, built to solve the housing issue due to rapid population growth. In the city centre, monumental public and administrative buildings in the spirit of Socialist Modernism and Brutalism also appeared.

• Iconic Objects: The most recognizable symbol of the era is the Palace of Culture and Sports — an example of bold modernist architecture with futuristic forms. Also belonging to this period is the grand Monument of the Bulgarian-Soviet Friendship, rising on one of the city's hills.

The Modern Period (From the 1990s to Present)

Modern architecture in Varna is distinguished by diversity and pragmatism. The city is actively building new business centres, hotels, and residential complexes, the appearance of which is dominated by glass, metal, and modern composite materials. Developers strive to create multi-functional spaces combining residential, office, and retail zones. Parallel to new construction, the gradual restoration of historical heritage is underway, although many old buildings still await their renewal. The city continues to develop, implementing ambitious projects aimed at creating a comfortable urban environment.

Distinguished Personalities Associated with Varna

Throughout its rich history, Varna has been the birthplace or place of activity for many talented and significant figures who have left a mark on science, art, and public life.

• Władysław III of Varna (1424–1444) — King of Poland and Hungary. His name is forever linked to the city thanks to the Battle of Varna in 1444, where he led the Crusader army in a campaign against the Ottoman Empire and heroically perished. A large park-museum has been created in the city in his honour.
• Fritz Zwicky (1898–1974) — A Swiss astronomer and physicist born in Varna. He is one of the greatest scientists of the 20th century, who first advanced hypotheses about the existence of dark matter and neutron stars, revolutionizing astrophysics.
• Nikola Obretenov (1849–1939) — A Bulgarian revolutionary, participant in the national liberation movement, and associate of Hristo Botev. Although born in Ruse, Obretenov was appointed as an apostle of the revolutionary district that included Varna, and he spent the last years of his life in this city.
• Georgi Velchev (1891–1955) — One of the most significant Bulgarian artists, a recognized master of the seascape. He was born in Varna and, after studying and working in Europe and the USA, returned to his hometown, to which he dedicated the majority of his work. Today, an art museum is open in his house.
• Anton Strashimirov (1872–1937) — A famous Bulgarian democratic writer, playwright, and publicist born in Varna. His works, such as the novel "Horo", are considered classics of Bulgarian literature and reflect the social and political realities of his time.
• Philipp Kirkorov (born 1967) — A popular Soviet and Russian pop singer, actor, and producer. He was born in Varna into an artistic family and is one of the most well-known modern celebrities associated with the city.