Roman Ruins Underneath a Starbucks in Varna, Bulgaria

As you wait for the barista to make your drink at this Starbucks in Varna, Bulgaria, don’t pull out your phone and start scrolling—there are better ways to pass the time. Below the shelves of branded mugs and bags of coffee beans is a 2,000-year-old street scene from the ancient city of Odessos (now Varna), once part of the vast Roman empire. Under the glass floor are well-preserved Roman walls and stone slabs. Sip your drink as you look down and contemplate all the lives these walls have witnessed. On the busy pedestrian walkway outside the cafe, you’ll find more Roman ruins under glass, a casual weaving of Varna’s storied history into its everyday life.

Feb 3, 2025 - 21:02
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Roman Ruins Underneath a Starbucks in Varna, Bulgaria

As you wait for the barista to make your drink at this Starbucks in Varna, Bulgaria, don’t pull out your phone and start scrolling—there are better ways to pass the time. Below the shelves of branded mugs and bags of coffee beans is a 2,000-year-old street scene from the ancient city of Odessos (now Varna), once part of the vast Roman empire.

Under the glass floor are well-preserved Roman walls and stone slabs. Sip your drink as you look down and contemplate all the lives these walls have witnessed. On the busy pedestrian walkway outside the cafe, you’ll find more Roman ruins under glass, a casual weaving of Varna’s storied history into its everyday life.