Nessebar is one of the most ancient towns in Europe, arising more than 3200 years ago. The ancient town is situated on a small peninsula, linked with the mainland with a narrow isthmus.
The old Messambria, called in the Early Middle Age Messemvria and later - Nessebar, was settled at the end of the Bronze Age.

The first Greek colonizers of Dorian origin arrived here at the end of 6th century B.C. The town grew up quickly and turned into a typical Greek polis with the correspondent structure, functions and government.

Messambria began to mint its own coins in the first half of 5th century B.C. - silver and later on bronze coins. The town reached its big prosperity between 3rd-2nd century B.C. when it minted its own gold emission.

Nessebar maintained commercial links with the towns from the Black, Aegean and Mediterranean coast. Material expressions of its rich economic, cultural and spiritual life are the numerous finds from this period, presented in the Archaeological museum.