On July 17, 1393, Turnovo was conquered by Turkish troops. Because of its centuries-old craft and trade traditions, the city at that time was important to the Turkish Empire, also known as Kuruskella (dry harbor).

The Monkey House in Veliko Turnovo is a masterpiece of the Bulgarian Revival master Kolyo Ficheto, built in 1849. With his unique architectural and construction skills, the Grand Master has erected a three-storey house for the needs of the merchant Nikola Koyuv on very narrow ground between two streets.

If the guest of Veliko Tarnovo strolls along the ancient streets of Varusha and Samovodska Charshia, he will feel the spirit of the bygone times, lifestyle and culture of the people of post-liberation Bulgaria. Being in the beautiful decor of years past, one seems to be part of a romantic show,

After the Liberation of Bulgaria from Ottoman rule in 1878 Veliko Tarnovo was the temporary capital of the country. In 1879 the first Constituent Assembly was convened in the city, at which the so-called. Turnovo Constitution.