The building on ul. “22 Khan Omurtagh Street in Varna, which today is home to many modern companies and sites is known as the Building of the Year 2021 and is called Byzantine, is an important monument of architecture and culture of the city. Its history is inextricably linked to Ottoman rule in Bulgaria and the building’s function as a Turkish prison. During its existence, it has witnessed significant changes, and to this day carries the spirit of the past.
The building was built at the end of the 19th century and was originally used as a prison during the Ottoman era. With its thick walls and massive architecture, it was ideally suited for a high-security prison where order and discipline were maintained. During Ottoman rule, the prison was a symbol of power and repression, but also part of Bulgaria’s turbulent historical path to independence.
Architectural significance
The building is an important example of the architectural style of the period with its clean lines and heavy construction typical of military and administrative buildings of the period. Its appearance is preserved in its original form, despite some restorations made to adapt it to its new functions. Today it is officially recognized as a monument of culture, which underlines its importance for the city’s history and architectural heritage.
Transformation into a modern centre
Nowadays, the building has been completely renovated and modernized to meet the needs of modern society. On this site is a residential block with luxury apartments, as well as the offices of the famous IT company “Zariba Game Factory”. Among the sites that attract locals and tourists alike, the premium barber shop “Zeus” stands out, which has revived barbering traditions in the historic centre of Varna
Tourist attractions and cultural heritage
The building on ul. “Khan Omurtag” 22 attracts more and more tourists who want to experience the history and see the monuments of culture. For those who want to experience a part of Varna’s rich cultural heritage, this place offers the perfect opportunity to take photos against the backdrop of the historic building, learn more about its past and feel the atmosphere of the old times.
The opportunity to visit the Zeus Barber Shop is also great for tourists who want to relax after a tour of the city. Not only does Zeus offer premium beard trimming and grooming services, but it also has a cozy bar where guests can unwind with a cup of coffee or a cold drink. It’s the perfect place where tourists can combine self-care with an exciting trip back in time.
Building as a Point of Interest (POI)
Due to its unique location and historical value, the building also becomes a point of interest (POI) for tourists. For those who like to discover hidden treasures in cities, the building on ul. “22 Khan Omurtag is a place not to be missed. It is not only a witness of the rich history of Varna, but also an example of the harmonious combination between the past and the present.
The building on ul. “22 Khan Omurtag is a unique symbol of the cultural heritage of Varna. It offers not only a glimpse into the past, but also modern amenities for tourists who want to explore the city. With the combination of historical atmosphere and modern services such as those offered at Zeus Barber Shop, this place offers every visitor a unique experience.
You are welcome to visit us at. “Khan Omurtag” 22 – take pictures in front of the remarkable building, take a walk, and do not miss to take care of yourself in the cozy barbershop “Zeus”, where tradition meets modernity.
History of the building on ul. “From an Ottoman prison to a symbol of the modern city
The building on ul. “22 Khan Omurtagh Street in Varna is one of the most interesting architectural monuments of the city, which carries the heritage of different historical eras. It has witnessed transformations from the Ottoman period to modern times, passing through significant moments in the history of Bulgaria and Varna. Today, the building houses prestigious businesses and premium residences, while retaining a connection to its past.
1. The Ottoman Period.
During the Ottoman rule in the Balkans (XIV-XIX centuries), Varna was an important strategic and administrative centre for the Ottoman Empire. The building on ul. “22 Khan Omurtag was originally built in the early 19th century as a residence for Ottoman administrative officials. In time, it began to serve as a prison where Bulgarian revolutionaries and other opponents of Ottoman rule were detained.
The Turkish prison in Varna was a place where prisoners often served heavy sentences. The prison had an ominous reputation among locals for its harsh conditions and methods of punishment. Although there are no accurate records of the number of prisoners and specific events related to the prison, many historians believe that this place was the scene of a serious crackdown on the Bulgarian liberation movement.
2. After Liberation: From State Ownership to Private Initiative
With the liberation of Bulgaria in 1878, the building on ul. 22 “Khan Omurtag” passed into the hands of the Bulgarian state. Like many other buildings of that period, it began to perform various administrative and social functions. At the beginning of the 20th century, the building was rebuilt and adapted for new purposes as part of the wider urban reconstruction of Varna.
In the years after the Second World War the building underwent a number of changes, and in the 1960s and 1970s part of it was left to ruin. For many years it remained in a semi-state of disrepair, until at the beginning of the 21st century initiatives were taken to restore and revive it as part of Varna’s architectural heritage.
3. The Building Revival: Premium Homes and Modern Businesses
Today, the building on ul. “22 Khan Omurtagh Street has been completely restored and turned into a modern residential and business complex that attracts the attention of both locals and tourists. The main part of the building is now home to luxury apartments that offer first-class living conditions in the heart of the city.
The building also houses the technology company Zariba Game Factory, which develops mobile and computer games for the global market. Zariba is proof of how Varna is developing not only as a cultural, but also as a technological centre, attracting young and dynamic talent from different sectors.
4. Premium barber shop Zeus Barbershop.
One of the most interesting and beloved places in the building is the premium barber shop Zeus Barbershop, which is a symbol of the revival of barbershop traditions in Varna. Zeus is not just a place for a haircut, but a true centre for men’s style and care. With its atmosphere and attention to detail, the barbershop has become a favourite place for both Varna men and tourists.
Zeus Barbershop offers premium services that include not only traditional haircuts, but also beard shaping, skin care, and a range of specialized treatments. This place combines the spirit of the olden days with modern trends in barbering, and its customers often say that visiting Zeus is a real experience.
The barbershop has also established itself as a key element of Varna’s social and cultural life. It often organises events and seminars, attracting both professionals from the barber industry and people who just want to learn more about appearance care. Many of these events become tourist attractions, showing the link between old barbering traditions and modern methods.
5. Attractiveness for locals and tourists
With its unique location and historical significance, ul. 22 “Khan Omurtag” is also known as one of the most visited tourist destinations in Varna. Many tourists come not only for the historical significance of the building, but also to enjoy the services offered by the businesses within.
Zeus is an attractive place for tourists not only because of the high level of services, but also because of the atmosphere, which reminds of old times and at the same time offers modern amenities. The barbershop is also a Point of Interest (POI) for many tourist tours that pass through Varna’s historical sites.
6. The revival of barbering traditions and the future of the building
Zeus Barbershop and the other businesses that are housed on the corner of the street. “22 Han Omurtagh Street are examples of how old architecture can be integrated into the modern life of the city. This creates a unique combination of historical heritage and modern urban environment. The building has not only preserved its value but has also become a symbol of the changes and opportunities that modern Varna offers.
The future of the building looks bright. With a combination of premium housing, innovative technology companies and a revived barbering tradition, the St. “22 Han Omurtagh continues to be an important part of Varna’s life. It is a living bridge between the past and the present, where people can enjoy a high quality of life and services while connecting to the city’s historic roots.
