The bonds between Greece and Bulgaria are formed of complex and – at times – dramatic histories. Both have worn the yoke of empires, from Roman to Byzantine and Ottoman, which remain today in a legacy of temples, churches, mosques and forums – and also in a trail of dishes.

A journey between the two neighbouring European countries, starting in Athens and ending in Plovdiv, Bulgaria’s second-largest city, reveals a collective history of cuisines. Although separated by mountain ranges, alphabets and political allegiances, both countries have long, proud food and wine traditions. While Greece has sold theirs to the world, Bulgaria’s is known only to those who seek it out.