Hindliyan House - a house with a red tiled roof and palm trees in the background
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Hindliyan House

4.7
·493 reviews·Plovdiv, Bulgaria

Step back in time at Hindliyan House, a stunning 19th-century residence in Plovdiv's Old Town, famed for its exquisite murals and preserved interiors.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
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Hindliyan House - a house with a red tiled roof and palm trees in the background

Hindliyan House

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step back in time at Hindliyan House, a stunning 19th-century residence in Plovdiv's Old Town, famed for its exquisite murals and preserved interiors.

4.7
(493 reviews)

"One of the most beautiful private residences I have seen in my travels."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Buy a Combined Ticket

Save money and time by purchasing a ticket for multiple houses in the Old Town. :admission_tickets:

⏰ Mind the Lunch Break

The house closes for lunch between 12:30 PM and 1:00 PM. Plan your visit to avoid this. :clock1:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Intricate Wall Murals

Intricate Wall Murals

Upper Rooms

Marvel at European scenes like Venice, masterfully painted to appear as if viewed from a window.

Reddit
Elaborate Ceilings

Elaborate Ceilings

Throughout the house

Discover beautifully patterned ceilings that add another layer of artistic detail to the house's interior.

Reddit
Unique Two-Area Bathroom

Unique Two-Area Bathroom

Bathroom

Experience an impressive and unique bathroom design, a testament to the era's architectural ingenuity.

Reddit
Aromatic Rose Water Fountain

Aromatic Rose Water Fountain

First Living Room

The grand first living room features a rose water fountain, perfuming the entire floor.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Combine Your Old Town Exploration

Hindliyan House is best visited alongside nearby Balabanov's House, as they are adjacent. Consider purchasing a combined ticket for multiple houses to save time and money, especially if you plan to see more of Plovdiv's historic architecture. Reddit

Check Opening Hours & Lunch Breaks

The house is typically open Tuesday to Sunday, but be aware of a lunch closure between 12:30 PM and 1:00 PM. Plan your visit accordingly to avoid disappointment. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Hindliyan House (Hindliyan’s House) is one of the most beautiful and well-preserved houses in Plovdiv’s Old Town, built in 1835–1840 for Stepan Hindliyan, a wealthy Armenian merchant. The house is a prime example of Plovdiv’s National Revival architecture, famous for its richly painted walls, ornate ceilings, and spacious salons. Inside, you’ll find elaborate floral and landscape murals, original ...
ag_lime
1 likes • 218 views

🎟️ Buy a Combined Ticket

Save money and time by purchasing a ticket for multiple houses in the Old Town. Reddit :admission_tickets:

⏰ Mind the Lunch Break

The house closes for lunch between 12:30 PM and 1:00 PM. Plan your visit to avoid this. Reddit :clock1:

📍Hindliyan House Museum • • • • • *more info in my guide (Plovdiv) • • • • • #house #oldhouse #housedesign #housebeautiful #housedecor #housetour #beautiful #aestetic #interiordesign
mariyastnv
0 likes • 462 views
House Hindliyan . #plovdiv #plovdivoldtown #bulgariatourism #discoverplovdiv
cap.compas.travel
26 likes • 201 views

🖼️ Admire the Details

Pay close attention to the murals and ceilings; they are masterfully crafted. Reddit :frame_photo:

🚶‍♀️ Explore Nearby Houses

Hindliyan House is right next to Balabanov's House, making them easy to visit together. Reddit :walking:

Hindliyan`s House Къща Хиндлиян お屋敷巡り ヒンドリヤンの家 水色の壁には 白い装飾模様が施され 西欧の様式と民族復興期の様式とが ミックスされた木造のお屋敷 中に入ると 豪華な調度品で 飾られた数々のお部屋 アルメニア商人のヒンドリヤンが 商用で出かけたイスタンブールや アレキサンドリアなど 各地で手に入れた調度家具が 展示されていました☺️ #ヒンドリヤンの家 #プロヴディフ観光 #プロヴディフ散策 #プロヴディフ #ブルガリア旅行 #旅行好き #旅女 #travelphotography #travellover #traveler #beautifulplace #beautifulscenery #scenery #plovdiv #hindliyanshouse #къщахиндлиян
yukimamsan
0 likes • 188 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Buy a Combined Ticket

Save money and time by purchasing a ticket for multiple houses in the Old Town. Reddit :admission_tickets:

⏰ Mind the Lunch Break

The house closes for lunch between 12:30 PM and 1:00 PM. Plan your visit to avoid this. Reddit :clock1:

🖼️ Admire the Details

Pay close attention to the murals and ceilings; they are masterfully crafted. Reddit :frame_photo:

🚶‍♀️ Explore Nearby Houses

Hindliyan House is right next to Balabanov's House, making them easy to visit together. Reddit :walking:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(493 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Hindliyan House as one of the most beautiful and impressive residences in Plovdiv's Old Town, highlighting its well-preserved interiors, stunning wall murals, and unique architectural features. Some note the convenience of visiting with nearby houses and appreciate the historical insights it offers.

"The most beautiful and impressive house in Old Plovdiv with well preserved interior and a lovely courtyard. I recommend visiting!"

Kremena

"It’s worth visiting, you can do Hindliyan’s and Balabanov’s house together as they are next to each other."

Ina Yambolieva

"Really nice house!! I recommend to buy a ticket for everything, as I only bought one for the main house and wanted to see more after that ^^ The bathroom is very impressive as well as the paintings."

Humming bird

What People Like

Beautifully preserved interiors
Intricate wall murals
Unique architectural details

What People Dislike

Lunch closure can be inconvenient
Limited parking nearby

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Hindliyan House is located in the heart of Plovdiv's Old Town. You can reach it by walking from the city center, which is a pleasant stroll through historic streets. If coming from further afield, local buses and taxis can take you to the vicinity of the Old Town. Reddit

Yes, Plovdiv has a good public transport network. Buses will take you close to the Old Town, from where it's a short walk uphill to Hindliyan House. Reddit

The best way is on foot! Wear comfortable shoes as the streets are cobblestoned and can be steep. Allow ample time to wander and discover hidden gems. Reddit

Parking in the immediate vicinity of the Old Town is limited and often restricted. It's advisable to park in designated paid parking lots on the outskirts of the Old Town and walk. Reddit

Yes, using a navigation app on your smartphone is highly recommended. Search for 'Hindliyan House' or 'Old Town Plovdiv' for directions. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices can vary, but it's often more economical to purchase a combined ticket that grants access to multiple historic houses in Plovdiv, including Hindliyan House and Balabanov's House. Check the official Plovdiv tourist information for current pricing. Reddit

Hindliyan House is typically open Tuesday through Sunday, from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM. However, it observes a lunch break between 12:30 PM and 1:00 PM. Always verify hours before your visit. Reddit

Advance booking is generally not required for Hindliyan House, especially if you're visiting during off-peak hours. However, for group visits or during peak tourist season, it might be advisable to inquire. Reddit

Yes, you can often purchase a consolidated ticket that covers several of Plovdiv's most significant historic houses, offering a discount compared to buying individual tickets. Reddit

To avoid the largest crowds, aim for weekday mornings or late afternoons. Weekends and midday hours tend to be busier. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed inside Hindliyan House for personal use. However, flash photography might be restricted to protect the delicate murals and interiors. Reddit

The most photogenic spots include the rooms with the intricate wall murals, the beautifully decorated ceilings, and the unique bathroom. The courtyard also offers lovely photo opportunities. Reddit

Drone photography is typically not permitted in historic city centers like Plovdiv's Old Town due to regulations and to preserve the atmosphere. Always check local ordinances. Reddit

Late afternoon, during the 'golden hour,' can provide beautiful, soft light that enhances the colors of the murals and interiors. Weekday mornings also offer fewer people for unobstructed shots. Reddit

Yes, the courtyard is a picturesque area and a great spot for photos. It often features charming architectural details and greenery. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

Hindliyan House is noted for its exceptionally well-preserved interiors, particularly its numerous gorgeous wall murals depicting European scenes, elaborate ceilings, and a unique two-area bathroom. The first living room also features a rose water fountain. Reddit

Yes, Hindliyan House is described as one of the largest houses in Plovdiv's Old Town, with many upper rooms featuring painted alafranga. Reddit

You can expect to see original, old furniture that complements the historical ambiance of the house, including ornate wooden pieces. Reddit

While official guided tours might not always be available, the house is self-guided. Information panels may be present, and the staff can often provide basic insights. Reddit

Alafranga refers to a style of decoration or furniture influenced by Western European trends, often seen in Ottoman-era homes. In Hindliyan House, it refers to the painted decorative elements in the rooms. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Hindliyan House can be an engaging visit for families, especially if children are introduced to the idea of stepping back in time. The vivid wall murals and unusual bathroom can spark curiosity. Encourage kids to look for details in the paintings and imagine life in the house. Consider purchasing a combined ticket if you plan to visit other historic houses, making it a more cost-effective family outing. Reddit

Be mindful that the Old Town streets are cobblestoned and can be uneven, so sturdy footwear is essential for everyone. While the house itself is not overly large, keeping an eye on younger children is advisable in the historic rooms. The courtyard offers a nice space for a brief rest or a quick photo opportunity. Reddit

🚶 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the key to visiting Hindliyan House is to buy a combined ticket that includes access to multiple historic houses in Plovdiv. This significantly reduces the per-attraction cost compared to buying individual tickets. Reddit

Plan your visit to coincide with the opening hours and avoid the lunch break to maximize your time. Walking to the Old Town from the city center is free and a great way to experience Plovdiv. Pack snacks and water to avoid purchasing them at tourist prices within the Old Town. Reddit

🏛️ History & Architecture Enthusiasts

Hindliyan House is a prime destination for those fascinated by Bulgarian National Revival architecture and 19th-century domestic life. The exceptionally preserved interiors, particularly the detailed wall murals and ornate ceilings, offer a rich visual narrative of the era's artistic achievements and cultural influences. Reddit

Pay close attention to the unique features like the two-area bathroom and the rose water fountain, which provide tangible insights into the lifestyle and innovations of the time. Visiting alongside Balabanov's House, perhaps with a combined ticket, allows for a comparative study of architectural styles and the lives of Plovdiv's wealthy merchants. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Architectural Splendor of Hindliyan House

Hindliyan House stands as a magnificent example of Bulgarian National Revival architecture, showcasing the wealth and artistic tastes of its former owner, Stepan Hindliyan. This impressive residence is renowned for its lavish interiors, featuring some of the most beautifully preserved wall murals in Plovdiv. These murals, often depicting idealized European landscapes like Venice, were intentionally painted in curved corners to create the illusion of looking through a window, a clever artistic technique of the era. The house also boasts ornate ceilings with intricate patterns, adding another layer of visual richness. Reddit

Beyond the visual artistry, Hindliyan House offers a glimpse into the daily life and customs of affluent families during the 19th century. Visitors are often struck by the unique two-area bathroom, a testament to the era's approach to hygiene and design. The grand first living room is particularly memorable, featuring a rose water fountain that would have perfumed the entire space, creating an atmosphere of luxury and comfort. The presence of original antique furniture further enhances the immersive experience, allowing visitors to step back in time. Reddit

When visiting, it's highly recommended to explore Hindliyan House in conjunction with the adjacent Balabanov's House. Many visitors opt for a combined ticket which offers access to both and potentially other historic homes in the Old Town, providing a more comprehensive understanding of Plovdiv's architectural heritage. Remember to check the opening hours, as there is a brief lunch closure, and wear comfortable shoes for navigating the charming but sometimes uneven cobblestone streets of the Old Town. Reddit

Understanding the Artistry: Murals and Ceilings

The wall murals within Hindliyan House are a significant highlight, showcasing the skill of master craftsmen from the period. These artworks are not merely decorative; they are narrative pieces that bring the outside world into the home. The depiction of European cities like Venice is particularly noteworthy, reflecting the cosmopolitan influences and aspirations of the time. The illusion of viewing these scenes through a window, achieved by painting them in curved corners, is a sophisticated artistic choice that enhances the sense of depth and realism. Reddit

The ceilings of Hindliyan House are equally captivating. Far from being overlooked, they are adorned with beautiful, intricate patterns that draw the eye upwards. These designs, woven onto the ceilings, demonstrate a meticulous attention to detail in every aspect of the house's construction and decoration. Together, the murals and ceiling designs create a rich, layered aesthetic that immerses visitors in the artistic sensibilities of the 19th century. Reddit

For those interested in art and history, these elements offer a profound insight into the cultural exchanges and artistic trends of the Bulgarian National Revival period. They are a testament to the desire for beauty and sophistication in domestic spaces, making Hindliyan House a must-visit for anyone appreciating historical art and architecture. Reddit

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