Monument to 1300 Years of Bulgaria

About

Built in 1981, this massive monument sits almost 1,500 feet above sea level, making it visible from miles away. Celebrating the country’s 1,300 years of history, 1,300 stairs travel down into the city center. Visitors needn’t make the hike, however, and can reach the massive structure by car. Consisting of a spiral of concrete blocks, the major events and figures of the First Bulgarian Empire are represented by 21 monumental sculptures and Europe’s largest outdoor mosaic, all watched over by a giant lion statue. Unlike many other communist-era monuments, the site has been maintained through the years, and is even a popular location for wedding photos.