Boldly embarking on a second act, Boyadzhiev's left hand began painting scenes that looked nothing like the ones his right hand had produced. Rick: You know, frankly, this is more interesting than what I would expect. But that didn't stop him. Built at about the same time as the Eiffel Tower, it's newer than it looks--with a steel frame clad in limestone veneer, and invisible buttresses that hold up its cascading gold and copper domes. From ancient Greeks and Romans to fearsome Slavic warriors, from Ottoman pashas to Cold War communists, each left its mark. This beautiful place has been a holy site and refuge for over a thousand years. Rick: How many springs in Sofia like this? ©2021 Rick Steves' Europe, Inc. | As a treat for those who've enjoyed over a hundred episodes of Rick Steves' Europe, Rick packed along an extra cameraperson to document the creative process that turns into a finished TV show. Its cascading gold and copper domes are striking from every angle. Today, these statues seem to preach their outdated ideology only to each other. This special episode is a sonnet to travel — an introspective love story, set in Europe, that vividly celebrates the rewards of exploring our world and the joy that awaits those who travel. Rick: Nazdráve! They mark the site of the heavily fortified headquarters of a long-gone Bulgarian kingdom. Between the Thracian Plain and Veliko Tarnovo run the Balkan Mountains. It has an airy, open street plan, fine old architecture, lush parks, and a relaxed pace of life. Plan your own trip or take one of Rick's value-packed European tours and vacations. And today, it remains the country's revered national treasure. The peaceful beech forests seem a world away from the big city. Many have already been removed and are displayed here at Sofia's Museum of Socialist Art. The Thracians were an impressive civilization. Experience the fun, conviviality, intimacy, and spontaneity as Rick hosts a travel happy hour on Zoom from his living room. The stage wall is mostly intact. I'm joined by my Bulgarian friend and fellow tour guide, Stefan Bozadzhiev, who's my teacher for all things Bulgarian — including some fun little insights. These bricks were a gift from Austria's Emperor Franz Josef — who, after what must have been a muddy visit in 1907, wanted to encourage Sofia to pave its streets. Stepping inside, you enter a world of glittering icons, a rich haze of incense, and hundreds of tall, skinny candles. Go behind the camera with Rick and his crew for the shoot of his 2006 Milan and Lake Como episode as Rick shares all the tricks of his trade in TV production. Join Rick's live Monday Night Travel party! Finally, we reach Rila Monastery: fortress on the outside…spiritual sanctuary inside. Dozens of these tombs are scattered across this valley, along with hundreds of decoy mounds designed to fool grave robbers. Rick Steves was born in Barstow, California, United States. Under the arcade, vivid 19th-century frescoes depict Bible stories, peopled by angels and devils, saints and sinners. This was a golden age for Bulgaria — the 13th and 14th centuries — when its empire dominated the Balkan Peninsula, and stretched all the way to Ukraine. Relatively unknown and underappreciated, Bulgaria is a country I've long enjoyed for the surprises it offers the curious traveler. His second show, Rick Steves' Europe , debuted in September 2000, and has aired episodes through 2020, though because he does not produce a season every year, this accounts for 11 seasons. A mountain monastery cradles Bulgaria's spiritual soul. DVD Currently unavailable. As if stowing away on an actual shoot, you'll meet the crew and hear in their own words how America's most popular travel show is made. Rick: You come here and celebrate Bulgaria. A fattened pig being slaughtered for Christmas; above the victim, each weathered face could tell a story. Down in the valley, golden domes mark Shipka Church, which honors the sacrifice of those Russian and Bulgarian troops. Crossing over this range, you'll pass several worthwhile sights. Are you ready for some virtual travel? Hindliyan House was decorated to the taste of its merchant owner. Folk traditions are alive and well. At the distillery, millions of blooms are quickly unloaded. 2. The streets are lined with bars, cafés, and creative galleries (look for PLOVEdiv, with prints that put a whimsical pop-culture spin on old communist icons). Stefan: …to your health. Kick off 2021 with a festival bash — Europe's biggest parties and festivals with an insider's look at the fun and craziness! As the second course arrives it's clear that Bulgarian cuisine is a tasty mix of the many cultures that have influenced this country. Even amid a pandemic that has hit the travel industry hard, Steves … Rick Steves' Europe Egypt’s Nile, Alexandria, and Luxor. Is that typical in Bulgaria? This church was built to honor the Russian soldiers who died to free Bulgaria from the so-called "Turkish yoke.". One of the largest Orthodox churches in Christendom--and the only national church I can think of that's named for an important saint of a different country: Russia. Sofia may be the capital of one of the poorest countries in the European Union, but you wouldn't know it strolling its vibrant boulevards. A block away is one of Europe's largest synagogues. The monastery was founded in the 930s by Bulgaria's patron saint, St. John of Rila (or Ivan Rilski, as Bulgarians call him), who came here seeking a hermetic way of life. The town is shaped like a natural amphitheater. For coronavirus (COVID-19) travel information, This time I'm surrounded by Slavic culture…it's Bulgaria! After registering through Zoom, you'll receive a confirmation email with a link to the event. And with its ethnic diversity came different religions. Rick Steves' Europe. We've learned a lot about them through their tombs. 4.0 out of 5 stars 42. Rick: I'm feeling better already. Todor the silversmith — with his strong hands and distinctive technique — transforms strips and strands of metal into exquisite jewelry. Our next stop is Bulgaria's medieval capital, Veliko Tarnovo. Although the couple is separated, Rick is … 2:17. Sicily serves up a full-bodied and tasty travel experience. Stefan: Because actually our most favorite, most beloved saint, Saint Ivan Rilski, was buried nearby. Travel with Rick on this video guide up the Nile River in Egypt and find out what to do on your next trip. The church is dedicated to Russian soldiers lost in that fight.) This event was recorded on January 11, 2021. [nods] Boyadzhiev — this is a self-portrait, with his wife — was already a well-established artist when his health took a terrible turn. Join Rick on a fascinating voyage, exploring four of Europe's most intriguing islands: Malta, Capri, Skye, and Orkney. 6. 4. All over Bulgaria, controversy swirls around crumbling communist-era monuments — like this one. Although the communists are gone, their architectural heritage still looms large. Stefan: This is very traditional way in Bulgaria. Rick Steves, America's leading authority on European travel, returns to transport viewers to the continent's bustling cities, quaint villages and picturesque countryside. Stefan: And a lot of Bulgaria. One of Europe's most dramatically set cities that bunny-hops through a misty gorge at a sharp bend of the Yantra River. Boyadzhiev's best works feature timeless slices of peasant life: People praying not in temples, but under trees. And we're here just in time for the rose harvest. Stefan: This is a traditional Bulgarian drink, and it is called "rakia." With Rick Steves, Andreas Clemens, Georg Reichlmayr, Holger Zimmer. OK. Rick Steves takes a walk with his girlfriend, Shelley Bryan Wee, and her two dogs, Gracie and Jackson, in downtown Edmonds. Over the next 25 years, he reveled in bright colors with a childlike exuberance, slapping thick, Van Gogh–like brushstrokes onto the canvas. It's fascinating to explore and easy to enjoy. One of Europe's most dramatically set cities, it winds through a misty gorge at a sharp bend of the Yantra River. Rick: So what is this drink then? Today you'll see a ruined acropolis, a well-preserved ancient theater, gorgeous 19th-century homes filled with the art of local painters, Bulgaria's most thriving pedestrian boulevard, and a hipster zone with creative restaurants and even more creative graffiti. Today, one in every 10 Bulgarian citizens is Muslim, whose ancestors came from Turkey. And we'll enjoy an intimate taste of contemporary culture: the yellow brick road of Sofia; the gregarious craftspeople of the medieval capital, Veliko Tarnovo; and the thriving pedestrian zones of cosmopolitan Plovdiv. In Plovdiv, as in many European cities, local leaders understand that buildings are going to be tagged anyway. Elegant in its day, it still feels lived-in, with opulent sitting rooms, fine furnishings, even a rose water fountain. Rick: Now, this is funny in Bulgaria — you went "yes," like… [swivels head around] Rick takes you behind the scenes as he films Italy's Cinque Terre, five charming villages hidden in the rugged Italian coast. And many of the parks come with heavy reminders of a tough 20th century. Buried deep under those piles of earth, the tombs were impressive engineering feats from 300 years before Christ. And we happened to drop in on a national holiday. Exploring the Nile Valley from north to south, we see the highlights of Egypt. The Bulgarians feel a Slavic kinship with Russia — which, in 1878, helped liberate them from centuries of Ottoman rule. Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube. When people ask Rick where his travel dreams take him, you'll see why it is the Cinque Terre. Nina skillfully turns clay into art. A walk along Veliko Tarnovo's craft street reveals a thriving folk culture with opportunities to watch artisans at work. Freshness is critical. Rick and wife. And, nearby, a folkloric dance troupe shares their traditional music. The 175-foot-tall steeple, flanked by bulbous golden onion domes that shimmer in the sunshine, holds a giant bell cast from discarded artillery cartridges after the battle. Bulgaria is a great place to travel. Rick Steves’ Europe is public television’s most-watched, longest-running travel series. Throughout the country, school's out — and people are celebrating. see our FAQ. With the end of the Cold War and the arrival of capitalism, Buzludzha was abandoned. In this town that's more vertical than horizontal, going for a walk around the block feels like climbing a ladder. He picked up the brush in his left hand and learned to paint brilliantly — in a completely different style. Centuries later, the Roman Emperor Trajan built this 5,000-seat theater. Within its walls, you feel something special — both sacred and timeless. Rick Steves’ Europe is an empire, with 100 U.S.-based employees and 150 freelance tour guides around the world. Rick Steves Classroom Europe® is a free online video library for teachers, students, and parents. Deep in the depth of winter, join Rick for a visit to his favorite stretch of Mediterranean coastline, the Italian Riviera. 5. Its capital has a stunning cathedral. Bulgaria is a land of rich culture, with a modern vitality. Like much of the Slavic world, Bulgaria uses the Cyrillic alphabet. Stefan: We have more than 40, and this is just one of them. Every day commuters walk by reminders of Sofia's distant past. Here in Sofia, within a few steps, you've got mosques, churches, and a synagogue. According to legend, the Asen brothers planted a sword on this spot and said, "Here shall be Bulgaria.". Capping a nearby ridge — miles from anything — is one of the most bizarre sights I've seen anywhere: Buzludzha, an abandoned monument to the Bulgarian Communist Party. Russian architects designed the church with a mix of Russian and Neo-Byzantine styles. Party with Rick at one of Europe's most exuberant spectacles (Running of the Bulls in Pamplona), Italy's answer to Mardi Gras (Carnevale in Venice), the wildest horse race on the planet (The Palio in Siena), the biggest beer party anywhere (Oktoberfest in Munich), and more. Rick: It's confusing for a tourist, because we go "yes." Credits: Rick: Hi, I'm Rick Steves, back with more of the Best of Europe. Most Bulgarians — like Russians and Greeks — are Orthodox Christians, and the Orthodox tradition stretches from here far to the East. And Georgi Dimitrov, the "Bulgarian Lenin," is simply ignored. Stefan: Yes. And the city even has an actual yellow-brick road. The heart of every single Bulgarian belongs to this place, belongs to this monastery here. This gigantic conference hall was built in the 1980s, in the waning days of communist rule. This zone also has more than its share of creative, government-subsidized graffiti. In 1951, he suffered a stroke, which made his right hand useless. It was ruled by the Asen dynasty. Peasant women clustered around a fire, knitting as they eke out warmth. Registration is open to everyone but only 3,000 can join the live event. Fun to see Youtube video with Rick Steves and Fred Plotkin . Each week he'll share his personal, inspirational, and sometimes hilarious behind-the-scenes commentary, followed by a Q&A — your chance to ask questions and interact with Rick. Go behind the camera with Rick and his crew for the shoot of his 2006 Milan and Lake Como episode as Rick shares all the tricks of his trade in TV production. It's the only national church I can think of that's named for a sainted military hero of a different country: Alexander Nevsky, of Russia. Stefan: We celebrate Bulgaria, and the Bulgarian experience. Posted on June 4, 2020 by Rick Steves Rewatching The Story of Fascism in Europe One summer evening, the American president ordered a park next to the White House to be cleared of peaceful protesters. RICK STEVES ’ EUROPE: French Alps And Lyon Stream now or tune in Saturday, Nov. 7, 2020 at 4 p.m. & 10:30 p.m. on KPBS TV Thursday, November 5, 2020 It's dinnertime, and Stefan's taking us out for a meal of updated Bulgarian classics. She proudly tops a column marking the center of town. Today--with 70,000 inhabitants, and a prestigious university with around 18,000 students — it's called Veliko (Great) Tarnovo to honor its illustrious past. Rick: And what is "no"? View the daily YouTube analytics of Rick Steves' Europe and track progress charts, view future predictions, related channels, and track realtime live sub counts. The bricks lead to Sofia's cathedral — one of the largest Orthodox churches in Christendom. And to this day, these perpetually flowing water taps are appreciated by the locals. Even though Bulgaria was famously docile under Russian rule, life under communism wasn't easy here. I'm Rick Steves. This bell tower, the oldest surviving part of the monastery, served as a final refuge in case of attack. However, it is inaccurate to assume him as gay as he is a proud father of two grown-up children. It's the Day of Slavic Culture. Steves' first television show, Travels in Europe with Rick Steves, debuted on public television in April 1991 and ended production in 1998. see our FAQ. Fred Plotkin, who wrote Italy for the Gourmet Traveler, has a Youtube series called Fred Plotkin on Fridays. Vast fields of roses bloom overnight. The Thracian Plain, defined by Bulgaria's two major mountain ranges, was a busy funnel of trade throughout ancient times. They kick off Plovdiv's liveliest pedestrian boulevard, where people promenade in style — past inviting parks and sidewalk cafés. Stefan: Yes, a little bit sulfur, probably. Bulgaria, so mysterious to most Americans, has a vivid identity as a crossroads of the Balkans. Commission only the best street artists to create art, rather than eyesores. The church — completed in 1902 by some of the leading Russian architects of the day — is exuberant "Muscovite-style"…over-the-top Baroque-meets-Byzantine. Our final stop is Bulgaria's most enjoyable city, Plovdiv — with a history going back centuries before Christ. Everything you need is here. With glittering treasures from ancient tombs and decrepit monuments to a difficult 20th century, it's a surprising land where this means yes…. The city is named for "holy wisdom," represented by this statue of Sveta Sofia. Prices are low here, making even a splurge like this surprisingly affordable. With a million people, Sofia is delightfully livable. But the couple gets divorced in 2010. Rick: So, "no" [nods]…"yes" [shakes head] — yes? Should they be allowed to stand, or should they be torn down? Travel with Rick on this video guide to Israel and find out what to do on your next trip. Hi, I'm Rick Steves back with more of the best of Europe. The monument is a twisty, 20-minute (each way) drive from the valley. This bronze head of a powerful king humanizes those ancient Thracians. The town's hillsides are blanketed with both traditional homes and dreary concrete housing blocks. Rick Steves Europe 12 New Shows 2019-2020. Over the next 25 years, he reveled in bright colors with a childlike exuberance, slapping thick, Van Gogh-like brushstrokes onto the canvas. Locals sit around a public fountain sipping glasses of wine. Stefan: Ne [nods]. Walls glitter with gold and silver icons, all from the early 20th century. 7. Sofia has lots of sprawling parks, offering apartment dwellers a green and inviting space to hang out. 3. The interior is an eerie, crumbling world of vandalized propaganda, muddy asbestos, a roof that's barely held up by its hammer and sickle, and disintegrating mosaics — once so proud, and now just a humble artifact of a fallen empire. Stefan: Ne. And today, flowers are laid at a monument to Cyril and Methodius, the missionary saints who invented the Cyrillic script to help introduce Christianity to the Slavs back in the ninth century. 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