Just outside the village of Obrochishte, you’ll find a monumental seven-sided mausoleum and refectory – part of the “tekke” (monastery) built here by Turks in the 1500’s. Here is a rare example of a monument which is respected by both Muslims and Christians. Muslims believe it is the burial place of their saint, Yazula Baba, and Christians think St. Atanasius is buried here. (He landed neaby on a voyage from Asia Minor to Russia and stayed). Local shepards, who claim both saints as their patron, also revere the site and still come on public holidays to sacrifice lambs and eat sweet pastries. At other times visitors will find refreshment in the caf? across the road. Ask at the nearby house for the key to the site.
 
 
 

                                                           2. Dvoretsa, Balchik

Queen Marie of Romania commissioned Italian architects to build her “Quit Nest” summer palace here in the 1920’s when Dobroudja was Romanian territory. She surrounded it with botanic gardens dotted with fanciful follies – including Roman Baths and a restored water mill – and a wonderful collection of large pots and oil jars. The terracesd gardens, threaded together by a stream, contain over 600 varieties of plants, trees and cacti, and have a wonderful romantic, relaxing air about them.

The entrance is off the Balchik – Albena road. You can buy a guidebook at the kiosk, and souvenirs from the stalls alongside; and take coffee in pleasant cafes close – by.

The gardens and palace are open 9 a.m. – 6 p.m every day from mid June to mid September.
 
 

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