Gorna Oryahovitsa often remains undeservedly hidden from the eyes of tourists, even though it is only about 10 km away from Bulgaria's old capital, Veliko Tarnovo. This charming provincial town, which lies at the foot of the Balkans on the banks of the Yantra river, is blessed with beautiful nature and has a rich history. Its most famous historical landmark is the Ryahovets Fortress, from which modern-day Gorna Oryahovitsa originated. "For the past 10 years, we’ve been conducting archaeological research and showcasing fascinating discoveries to visitors, including 13th-4th century burial grounds linked to the old capital, Tarnovo," Plamen Mladenov, director of the town's History Museum, told Radio Bulgaria. During the April Uprising (1876), Gorna Oryahovitsa was the unofficial capital of the so-called First Revolutionary District and produced prominent figures in Bulgarian history, Plamen Mladenov said:

"We have exceptionally well-preserved exhibits from that period, especially the battle flag of Gorna Oryahovitsa, which was sewn by the young women of the town's women's society. The flag was saved by General Gurko during the liberation of Tarnovo. It is the only Bulgarian flag that took part in the battles of Shipka, as the famous Samara flag was not sewn in Bulgaria. The battle flag of Gorna Oryahovitsa later became part in some of the most important events in the modern history of Bulgaria".

Gorna Oryahovitsa has every chance of establishing itself as a culinary destination for connoisseurs of authentic flavours. Starting with the famous Gorna Oryahovitsa suzhduk (flat sausage), which has become the culinary emblem of the town. Every year in late May and early June, the city is transformed into a colourful festival dedicated to this delicious meat delicacy, with a rich folklore programme, culinary competitions and tastings.

"This is the first Bulgarian culinary product to receive a Protected Geographical Indication in Europe, back in 2011," says Mladenov. "To this day, it is produced exclusively in Gorna Oryahovitsa according to an authentic recipe. Our festival is a three-day celebration. We also present another culinary speciality, the so-called Gornooryahovsko garne (a Gorna Oryahovitsa pot). This dish is cooked overnight. It is prepared from beef tendons, which are slowly simmered over low heat with lots of vegetables. "The result is absolutely delicious! And, of course, the pot is enjoyed in good company with a complementary drink!" This remarkable dish has made the people of Gorna Oryahovitsa famous. The famous Gornooryahovsko garne has been sent as a gift to ministers, kings and members of parliament, making it an emblem that is "almost legendary, but completely real".

• Museum of flat sausage opens in Gorna Oryahovitsa
• Gornooryahovski sudzhuk is an example of preserved culinary and cultural traditions in Bulgaria

The town has several hotels and guesthouses. As well as tourists, they also welcome athletes. Five years ago, Gorna Oryahovitsa passed a rigorous European assessment and was officially awarded the title of "European City of Sport" for 2021, proving the high standard of its sports infrastructure. The city organises more than 70 national championships every year. It also welcomes many nature enthusiasts.

Just a short walk from the centre of Gorna Oryahovitsa - less than half a kilometre - begins a beautiful green area: a picturesque forest park, rich in wildlife, natural scenery and remnants from various historical periods. There, at an altitude of 500 metres, is the emblematic "Bozhur" Lodge and the "Bozhur Meadow" area, with protected peony habitats that enchant visitors. The area hosts various festivals, scout camps and more. 

This year, for the first time, a balloon festival will be held (3-7 September), giving people the opportunity to fly over the Yantra River and the Kamaka area," Plamen Mladenov concluded.