Until 1934, the city of Assenovgrad was called Stanimaka. In honor of Tsar Ivan Assen II, it was renamed to Assenovgrad. The remains of Assens fortress are a clear evidence of the important defensive role that this fortress performs in ancient times. Because of the proximity of the settlement to the Holy site of Krastova Gora and the numerous monasteries in the vicinity, it is known as the Little Jerusalem, and because of the many shops for wedding dresses, it is called in jest, also the city of the wedding dresses.

In the night of 13 against 14 September, in Krastova Gora, where it is believed to have been buried a particle of Cross of Jesus, thousands of Christian believers gather for a night liturgy hoping to get healed and to witness divine miracle. Up there, among the magnificent scenery, near the large iron cross, the vigil ends at sunrise with the first sun rays.

On the stony plateau Belintash was found the oldest star world map. This ancient observatory is of more than 7000 years.

Very close to the city on a steep mountain road one can get to the Assens fortress and the preserved to the present day Church of "St. Virgin Mary of Petrich", in which there are partly preserved unique frescoes. It is quite difficult to reach it, but the possibility of lighting a candle in this holy place is worth the effort.

If one continues 10 kilometers south of Assenovgrad one will get in Bachkovo Monastery, which is surrounded by beautiful Rhodope hills. Before one reaches the entrance to the monastery, one will go through the organized by local people bazaar, where one can buy everything that grows and is produced in this region - buffalo yogurt, tasty honey, aromatic Rhodope herbs, craftsman's articles from this are and what not.

Bachkovo Monastery has survived through the centuries, to disclose to its visitors its entire splendor. Magnificent frescoes decorate the Church of the Holy Virgin. There can be seen the icon of the Virgin Mary, which is believed to be miraculous, that's why there is always a long queue of waiting people in front of the Church.

The Monastery has a museum, too.

Bachkovo monastery offers rooms for accommodation, but because those who wish to stay there are too many, one must call to make a reservation.

Assenovgrad has modern hotels, restaurants and taverns, where one will be served one the famous Assenovgrad's Mavrud - red wine with a taste which one will long remember.

Do not hesitate but head for the city of Assenovgrad, which is very close to Plovdiv and is a suitable starting point for interesting routes around the beautiful scenery of the Rhodope Mountains.