Varna, Bulgaria

The archaeological site of Varna, Bulgaria, known historically as Odessos, is a significant location with a rich history spanning from the Middle Paleolithic to the Post-Classical periods. The site is renowned for the Varna Necropolis, where the world's oldest gold treasure was discovered, dating back to the 5th millennium BCE. Initially a Thracian settlement, Odessos became a flourishing Greek colony in the 6th century BCE, before coming under Roman rule in the 1st century CE. Throughout its history, Varna has been a pivotal economic and cultural hub, evidenced by numerous domestic, religious, and public structures, including ancient fortifications, temples, aqueducts, and public baths. The site has seen various periods of occupation and control, including Byzantine and Bulgarian, and was notably the scene of the Battle of Varna in 1444 CE.