Sozopol

Sozopol is an ancient seaside town located 35 km south of Burgas on the southern Bulgarian Black Sea Coast. Today it is one of the major seaside resorts in the country, known for the Apollonia art and film festival (which takes place in early September) that is named after one of the town's ancient names.

History

The town was founded in the 7th century BC by Greek colonists from Miletus as Antheia. The name was soon changed to Apollonia, on account of a temple dedicated to Apollo in the town, containing a famous colossal statue of the god Apollo by Calamis, 30 cubits high, transported later to Rome by Lucullus and placed in the Capitol.

In 1328 Cantacuzene (Johannes VI) speaks of it as a large and populous town. The islet on which it stood is now connected with the mainland by a narrow tongue of land. Its inhabitants, in the past mostly Greeks, lived by fishing and agriculture.

Modern Sozopol

Today, Sozopol is one of the major seaside resorts in the country, known for the Apollonia art and film festival that is named after one of the town's ancient names. The busiest times of the year are the summer months, ranging from May to September as tourists from around the world come to enjoy the weather, sandy beaches, history and culture, fusion cuisine (Bulgarian, Greek, Turkish), and atmosphere of the colourful resort.

Cuisine

The cuisine of Sozopol is diverse due to its location and the variety of nations and cultures that have passed through this town. The most common foods include fish and other seafood, followed by lamb and goat. Vegetables, fruits and bread are always served fresh. The fusion between the Bulgarian, Greek and Turkish cuisines has created a unique culinary identity for Sozopol.

See also

• Bulgaria
• Burgas
• Black Sea Coast
• Apollonia (festival)