Hisarya is one of Bulgaria's most renowned balneology resorts, situated in the southern part of the country at the foot of the Sredna Gora mountain range. The town is located approximately 45 km from Plovdiv, 175 km from Sofia, and 280 km from Burgas. The name "Hisarya" is of Arabic origin and means "fortress." Over the centuries, the settlement has been known by various names, including Augusta, Diocletianopolis, Seuthopolis, Alexiopolis, and Toplitsa. The town's history dates back to the 5th–4th millennium BC. In 293 AD, the Roman Emperor Diocletian granted it city status, after which the construction of impressive fortress walls began—sections of which remain preserved to this day. Hisarya is a preferred destination for spa vacations and balneotherapy year-round. Thanks to its mild climate, the town offers ideal conditions for relaxation even during the winter months. The area is famous for its 22 mineral springs, the waters of which are used for therapeutic and restorative treatments. It was here, in 1882, that organized balneotherapy in Bulgaria first began.
