The Mediaeval Town of Cherven
Cherven was one of the biggest towns of Bulgaria in the period of 12th-14th century. Its inhabitants were Thracians (4th - 2nd century B.C.) and Byzantines (4th - 6th century A.D.). It had been a bishop’s residence and a craft centre. The mediaeval town is situated on a high hill in the canyon of the river Cherni Lom, 35 km south of Rousse. There are different historical and archaeological sites in its surroundings - prehistoric, ancient and medieval fortresses, settlements and necropolises. The most impressive are the numerous Christian rock monasteries. Mediaeval frescos are preserved in some of them.