Melnik

In the early 13th century, Melnik was the capital of the lands ruled by Despot Alexius Slav, a nephew of the brothers Peter, Asen and Kaloyan. In 1207, after the murder of Tsar Kaloyan, Alexius Slav opposed the usurper Boril and withdrew to his lands in the Rhodope–Pirin region as an independent Bulgarian ruler.

Archaeological finds from this period testify to an intense building boom. Imposing buildings, churches, monasteries and fortifications were constructed. One of the most notable monuments is the residence of Despot Alexius Slav, the remains of which can still be seen today. Melnik is also believed to have had a population of more than 10,000 during this period.
In 1230, after his victory at Klokotnitsa, Tsar Ivan Asen II reunited much of the Bulgarian lands, including Melnik. The town retained its importance in the second half of the 13th century, remaining a centre of trade and crafts. After 1300, Melnik’s influence declined, but it remained one of the most culturally significant towns in south-western Bulgaria.