Bizarre and Interesting Things to See and Do in Eastern Europe Part 4

Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria- Tsarevec Fortress

This is an original medieval fortress during the second Bulgarian kingdom. It was notably raided by barbarians who raided and destroyed the whole city. Today it is known for its extraordinary sound and light display that tells the story of what happened throughout history within its walls.

Brno, Southern Moravia, Czech Republic- Spilberk Castle

Created in the 13th century, Spilberk Castle was a stronghold and prison for the Austro-Hungarian Empire. During war conflicts, prisoners of war were tortured in the prison. Nazis took over Spilberk Castle during World War II and made it a station between checkpoints and concentration camps. In 1960 Spilberk Castle was turned into Brno City Museum.

Nagyrev, Hungary

Nagyrév was a village long ago abandoned because the Szamos River flooded it in 1970. The whole town was evacuated and not allowed to return or rebuild for 20 years. Residents moved on to other nearby towns and settlements, and nature took over and overran the town. Although restrictions for returning and rebuilding Nagyrév were lifted in 1993, it still remains abandoned.

Istra, Russia- Experimental Grounds for High-Voltage Generation Tesla Coil

This is an open air operating Tesla Coil at a massive scale. It resides in a darkened forest near Istra and it randomly has lightning bolts shooting across the coils that light up the whole forested area.

Chernigov, Ukraine- Ancient Chernigov caves

In Chernigov, Ukraine there are ancient caves that contain a monastery and an underground church. This is also a place for burial and it is thought to be haunted.

Saint Petersburg, Russia- The Winter Palace

The Winter Palace was erected to reflect the might and power of imperial Russia. In 1905, the palace was the scene of the Bloody Sunday Massacre. Today it also houses the Hermitage Museum.

Moscow, Russia- Red Square

The most important and well known square in Russia, the Red Square is the central area for government establishments in Russia. The tomb of Soviet Union founder Vladimir Lenin also resides in the Red Square and can be visited.

Soledar, Ukraine- Salt Symphony

An abandoned salt mine in Soledar, Ukraine is used yearly to host the area’s Art Festival and Salt Symphony. A whole classical symphony orchestra performs here underground every year on the 6th through the 7th of October.

Varna, Bulgaria- The Roman Thermae in Varna

This is the largest ancient Roman building ever found in Bulgaria. It was once made up of massive stone blocks and still holds remnants of what it once was.

Malko Turnovo, Bulgaria- City of The Deceased

This “City” consists of four tombs on a hill at the border of Bulgaria and Turkey. It is known to be a Thracian Necropolis.

Learn more about their impressive heritage by choosing an Eastern European city-break for your next holiday!