Hisarya

## Overview Hisarya (Хисаря) is a renowned spa town in central Bulgaria, nestled at the foot of the Sredna Gora mountain range at an elevation of approximately 364 meters. The town sits atop one of the richest geothermal zones in the Balkans and has been celebrated for its mineral springs for thousands of years. With over 20 natural mineral springs in and around the town, Hisarya has been a destination for those seeking the reputed healing properties of its warm mineral waters since antiquity. The history of Hisarya's springs stretches back to Thracian times, and the town flourished as a Roman spa resort known as *Diocletianopolis* (named after Emperor Diocletian) during the 2nd–4th centuries AD. The Romans built elaborate bathhouses and fortification walls — impressive remnants of which still stand today — specifically to take advantage of the thermal mineral waters. The town's name "Hisarya" itself derives from the Turkish word *hisar*, meaning "fortress," a reference to those ancient Roman walls. The mineral waters of Hisarya are generally characterized as low-mineralization, slightly alkaline, and naturally warm — with temperatures at various springs reportedly ranging from around 37°C to 52°C (99°F–126°F). The waters have historically been used for drinking cures and balneotherapy, and the town remains one of Bulgaria's most popular spa destinations. Several public drinking fountains throughout the town allow visitors to sample the mineral water, which has been reported to have a clean, mildly mineral taste. This public drinking spring, located at GPS coordinates 42.504936, 24.7089, is one of the many accessible mineral water sources in the Hisarya area. ## Directions 1. Hisarya is located approximately 40 km north of Plovdiv and about 160 km southeast of Sofia in central Bulgaria. 2. From **Plovdiv**, head north on the main road toward Karlovo. Follow signs for Hisarya — the town is well-signposted from the main highway. 3. From **Sofia**, take the Trakia Motorway (A1) east toward Plovdiv, then exit toward Karlovo/Hisarya and follow local road signs northward into the town. 4. Once in Hisarya, navigate to the GPS coordinates **42.504936, 24.7089** to locate this particular public drinking spring. Many of the town's mineral springs and public fountains are clustered in and around the central park area and the historic Roman walls. 5. Parking is generally available in the town center. The springs are accessible on foot from most central locations. ## What to Expect Visitors to Hisarya will find a charming Bulgarian spa town with a rich historical atmosphere. The public drinking springs are typically free-flowing fountains where locals and visitors alike fill bottles with mineral water — a common tradition throughout Bulgaria's spa towns. You may see residents arriving with large containers to stock up on the naturally warm mineral water. The town center features well-maintained parks, the impressive remains of Roman fortification walls (among the best-preserved in Bulgaria), and several spa hotels and sanatoriums. The area around the springs is generally flat and easy to walk, making it accessible for visitors of all ages and mobility levels. Hisarya is a year-round destination, though the parks and outdoor areas are especially pleasant in spring and autumn. Summer can be warm in central Bulgaria, while winters are mild compared to the mountainous regions nearby. The mineral springs flow continuously regardless of season. Beyond the springs, visitors can explore the Roman ruins, the Archaeological Museum, and several churches and historical sites within walking distance. The surrounding Sredna Gora hills also offer hiking opportunities for those looking to combine a nature excursion with their visit to the springs.