Bulgaria Inside

The town of Peshtera is situated 20 km away from Pazardzhik and approximately 40 km away from Plovdiv. Its proximity to the two bigger cities makes it a strategic place for both business and tourism.

According to historians, the region was populated back in the Neolithic period. Findings uncovered in the area show that Snezhanka and Iubileina caves were populated long time ago. Thracians also settled in the area later on.

The settlement formed in the fourth century BC. Cohabitation between Thracians Bulgarians and Slavic tribes affected.

Peshtera received its name because of the numerous caves (peshtera is cave in Bulgarian) nearby.

During the revival period, Peshtera experienced a construction boom. Many churches, bridges and fountains appeared following the Peshtera architecture and construction style. You can still see St. Petka, St. Dimitur and St. Bogorodtisa church, all preserved in excellent condition.

According to one legend, Peshtera was spared from Ottoman assaults during the April uprising thank to the efforts of the local Ottoman ruler named Osman Efendi. Batak was completely demolished and Ottoman soldiers headed to Peshtera. Osman Efendi welcomed them and pleaded for the town and for the local population. In this manner, Peshtera remained unharmed.

Peshtera gained its independence from Ottoman rule on January 6 1878, as a result of the Russo-Turkish war.

If you are planning to visit one of Bulgaria’s atypical destinations, Peshtera will certainly have something to offer.

Snezhanka cave is situated five km away from the town, in the direction of Batak. The road ends in a parking lot and you will have to follow a steep eco path to reach the cave. Effort is worth it, since Snezhanka preserves some of the most beautiful cave formations in the country.

A cave chamber, named the Magical Chamber, preserves a white crystal figure that speleologists have named Snow White. It gives the cave its name (Snezhanka is Snow White in Bulgarian).

The cave welcomes visitors from 9 am to 5 pm during the summer and from 10 am to 4 pm during week days in the winter.

Koupena preserve is situated close to Peshtera. The area is under UNESCO protection since 1977. The path leading to the preserve starts at Snezhanka’s parking lot.

St. Konstantin resort is another tourism attraction in the region. The resort offers winter sports opportunities. It makes use of two lifts and two ski tracks. During the summer, you can enjoy beautiful nature there. Batak dam is situated nearby and is a suitable destination for fishing and the practice of water sports.

If you decide to spend more time in Peshtera itself, head to the town’s history museum. It preserves over 8000 exhibition items that trace historic development in the region starting from the Neolithic period. Peshtera’s park is named Zhelezniat Grad (the iron city) and is a wonderful leisure time opportunity.

Local cuisine is worth trying. Peshtera has its specific desert called tatlia. Try the local sauerkraut banitsa.

Peshtera’s population is a mix of Turkish and Bulgarian people, who coexist peacefully. This mix results in the town’s special ambience.