Hissar

The ancient Bulgarian town and world-famous spa resort of Hissar is situated in the centre of Bulgaria, 364 m above sea level, in the southern folds of Sredna Gora Mountains, 42 km north of Plovdiv and 165 km east of Sofia, close to the Valley of Roses.

The climate is moderate continental with mild and warm winter. The average annual snow cover is 12 days. Spring comes early, summer is temperately hot with an average month temperature of 22oC. Autumn is warm and long lasting. The average annual humidity is moderate (70 %). Foggy weather is an exception. The wettest months are June and November. Sunny days - 280 per year.

There are 22 mineral springs in Hissar - 16 natural and 6 deeply drilled with temperatures ranging from 37 to 51 degrees C. Their water has a low mineral level - 0.257 g/l, hydrogen carbonate-sulfate, chlorine and sodium, fluorine-silicic, alkaline. It has a high pH level - 9. It has not got colour or smell. It is with pleasant taste. Hissar mineral water can be used both as table water and for prevention of:

• gastro-intestinal tract diseases;
• nephrolithiasis and nephro-urological diseases; cholelithiasis;
• locomotory system diseases;
• gynecological diseases;
• dental diseases and prevention of dental caries;
• chronic intoxication with heavy metals and pharmaceutical substances.

Sightseeing: The symbol of the town is definitely the unique remains of Hissarya Fortress from the 3rd -4th centuries before AD. The fortress walls used to be 2200 metres long. The fortress also used to have defensive towers and fortress gates. Nowadays the present ancient town of Diocletianopolis (ex name of Hissar) has been declared an archaeological reserve. Only the Southern Gate, called The Camels, because its form resembles two camels and the Western “Pazardjishka” Gate are preserved now. In the archaeological complex many ancient tombs were found. The famous one is the Hissar Tomb, which is a Late Roman family tomb of the 4th century.

Vicinities: The unique Thracian cult centre of Starossel, near the village of Starossel is situated 20 km west of Hissar. It includes several temples, a variety of archaeological monuments and remains of rich royal tombs.