Burgas to serve as entry point for St John relics pilgrimage route

Burgas is to become the main entry point to a new Bulgarian pilgrimage route leading to the relics of St John the Baptist, with a city walking tour entitled "Believe in Burgas – From History to the Temple Gates" forming part of the initiative. 

Developed by the Camino Bulgaria association and inspired by Europe's best-known pilgrimage trails, the project aims to combine spiritual experience, cultural heritage and sustainable tourism.

• Pilgrimage route to link Malko Tarnovo and Sozopol

Burgas Mayor Dimitar Nikolov said the Black Sea city would serve as the route's main transport hub, thanks to its international airport and rail and bus links. This is expected to make Burgas the main point of arrival for pilgrims and visitors travelling to Sozopol and St Ivan Island, where relics associated with St John the Baptist are kept, BTA reported.

The urban route starts at the Tourist Information Centre near the railway station and Yug bus station and takes visitors past some of the city's principal cultural and religious landmarks. As on other European pilgrimage trails, participants will be able to obtain a pilgrim passport and collect stamps at designated locations along the route.

The initiative forms part of the joint bid by Burgas, Sozopol, Primorsko and Tsarevo for the title of European Capital of Culture.

• Burgas prepares to apply for European Capital of Culture

Editor: Elena Karkalanova