Kyustendil, Municipality and oblast seat in Southwestern Bulgaria
Kyustendil is a city and municipality seat in southwestern Bulgaria, located at around 560 meters elevation in hilly terrain. It sits near the borders with Serbia and North Macedonia, featuring a mix of older residential areas, green spaces, and streets that converge toward the center.
During Roman times, the settlement flourished as Pautalia and served as an important regional center. Over the centuries, it changed hands between Byzantine rulers, Bulgarian dynasties, and Serbian powers before falling under Ottoman control in 1395.
The name comes from Kösten, a Serbian magnate, and Orthodox churches throughout the city reflect its former role as a bishopric. These religious buildings shape the urban landscape and mark the city's spiritual heritage.
The city connects to major Bulgarian destinations through local roads and public transport, with accommodation options ranging from guesthouses to hotels. Visitors will find lodging near natural thermal springs and health resorts in the surrounding area.
More than 40 mineral springs in the surrounding area provide natural healing resources, making the city a national center for balneological treatments. These thermal waters attract visitors seeking the beneficial properties of the springs.
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