Bulgaria Inside

The only place in Pleven that has preserved some of the revival-period architecture is the so called Revival Complex. It is situated in the central part of town, close to the old main street.

Despite the initial idea behind the complex, today it has nothing to do with museum collections. There, Pleven residents and town visitors can enjoy traditional Bulgarian cuisine in authentic surroundings. The place is worth paying a visit, even if only to have a rakia and a shopska salad.

Construction of the complex began in 1974. Buildings are exact replicas of old houses that were situated in other parts of town. The only authentic revival period house is the one that belonged to Angel Mruvkov. It inspired the creation of the entire complex.

Mruvkov’s house served as a museum where a lifestyle during the revival period collection was displayed. The upper floor of the house featured authentic old furniture and household items from the 19th century. A wine collection was positioned in the cellar. Kosta Zlatarev’s house also hosted an exhibition.

Purvanova, Dacheva and Bakurdzhieva houses were constructed until 1978 and started functioning in 1981. Purvanova house acted as the headquarters of the regional cultural directorate. Dacheva house became a poet’s club. Musicians made use of Bakurdzhieva house.

In this manner, a complex of 19th and 20th century houses formed to act as a bridge between the past and the present.

The complex functioned until 1990, when private owners started seeking their rights over state property. Mruvkov’s house refrained from functioning for a long period of time and was later on turned into a restaurant. Kosta Zlatarev’s heirs also decided to claim their property. Purvanova house turned into a restaurant, as well.