Bulgaria Inside

Hidden in the beautiful greenery of Pleven’s cascades is a unique building that town residents call The Bath. Since 25 years, this building protects unique works of art that Bulgarian artist Svetlin Rousev donated to his birth town.

Part of the collection was displayed in Sofia’s National Gallery for Foreign Art to commemorate 75 years since Rousev’s birth.

The building was constructed in 1905. Its specific architecture makes some people love it and others hate it. Because of its specifics, the building was called a Turkish-Roman Bath and until the 70s acted as such. Today, the building has been named a monument of culture of national importance.

Rousev has been collecting works of art throughout his life. In 1984, he decided to donate 322 of them to his birth town. These include Bulgarian works of art from the revival period until present times. The collection also includes the works of French, Romanian, Cuban, Mexican and Russian authors as well as African statuettes and masks.

The halls of the gallery also protect works of Goya, Picasso, Dali, Rodin, Degas and Renoir. Rousev has been enriching the collection periodically.

Unique architecture and fine works of art take visitors to another world. The gallery carries its own spirituality.

It can be experienced as a true temple of art. Some of the halls preserve the words of poets and writers, as well as the performances of musicians.

Each visitor can find something in the art gallery regardless whether just passing by or having great interest in art.

The gallery welcomes visitors each day from Tuesday to Saturday from 10 am to 6 pm. There is no entry fee.

Contact information:
Art Gallery Collection Svetlin Rousev-Pleven
Telephone 359 064 83 83 42, e-mail: hg_svetlinrusev@abv.bg