Veliko Tarnovo is located on the banks of Yantra River. The symbol of the city is Tsarevets Fortress, located on a hill with the same name. Veliko Tarnovo was the old capital of Bulgaria and the visitors are inspired by the large number of churches and monasteries near the city. The Old part of the town keeps a typical atmosphere from the Bulgarian Renaissance period. Traditional houses are hanging over the banks of Yantra River. Just 6 km from the town is the village of Arbanassi, declared as an architectural reserve.