The city of Shoumen is established 3200 ago. For centuries it was the cradle of a rich spiritual and material culture – Thracian, Roman, Byzantine, Bulgarian. Near Shoumen are the remains of the first and the second Bulgarian capital cities – Pliska and Veliki Preslav as well as the Madara center. From its establishment until XV Century the city was situated in the region of Shoumen fortress which is a sophisticated complex of fortifying facilities, living and spiritual buildings. After the crusade of Vladislav Varnenchik in the year 1444, Shoumen was demolished by the Turks. The new city was built at the foot of Ilchov slope.
Tombul Mosque is the biggest one in Bulgaria and is the second on the Balkan Peninsula. ‘Sherif Halil Pasha’ Mosque and the surrounding complex were built in 1744. it is known as Tombul Mosque because of the round shape of the dome. The whole complex is spread on 1730 square meters. It is a cultural monument and also a main tourist attraction in the region.

‘Laiosh Koshut’ Museum-house
The museum was found in 1949 in the house of the local tradesman hadji Dimitraki hadji Panov, where the leader of Hungarian revolution /1848-1849/ Laiosh Koshut had lived during his exile. The exhibition represents Koshut’s revolutionary activity.
The interior that was traditional for the rich tradesmen’ homes has been restored. There is a new building in the courtyard representing the ‘Bulgarian-Hungarian cultural relations’ exhibition.

‘Dobri Voinikov’ Museum-house
Dobri Voinikov – one of the most famous Bulgarians from the time of the Bulgarian national revival was born in Shoumen. What is most interesting about his house is its unusual architecture. Inside the house you will find native household goods, some of which belonged to Voinikov itself. The documentary part of the exhibition represents Dobri Voinikov’s encyclopedic activity as a teacher, an author of textbooks, a dramatist, a musician and an editor.

The Madara Rider
This is the most remarkable monument at the ‘Madara’ historical-archaeological complex. The unique relief of the rocks, a sign for Bulgarian medieval art symbolizing the power of the Bulgarian state from its khan period, is the only one in Europe. There are inscriptions excavated around the rider’s figure. The Madara Rider is promulgated a monument of world importance by UNESCO because of its great importance.