Bulgaria Inside

Stara Planina hides in its folds, near Troyan Monastery, the village of Oreshak. This small village houses one of a kind for the country arts and crafts exhibition.

The exhibition was created in the second half of the 20th century but has long prehistory. In the second half of the 19th century, craftsmen from all parts of Bulgaria used to come to Troyan Monastery on August 15. There, they presented their works and created one of the biggest crafts fairs in Bulgaria.

Interest towards crafts was renewed in the middle of the past century. In 1967, craftsmen formed a labor society and in 1971 it opened the national arts and crafts exhibition.

Oreshak was selected as the place, since the village has preserved its traditions. The exhibition has been opened to popularize Bulgarian craftworks.

In 1978, the exhibition saw international participation for the first time. Craftsmen from 16 countries took part in the first international crafts fair that was held in 1981.

Eight halls and a conference room present the works. The total exhibition area is 4500 sq m. Apart from the permanent exhibition, national and foreign collections are often displayed there.

Each hall exhibits unique works of art. Intricate woodcarvings, colorful rugs and knitworks will certainly impress you. Make sure to examine the copper dishes, wonderful ceramics, jewelry and embroideries.

The exhibition is open-year round, seven days a week.