Bulgaria Inside

Culture, education, architecture and construction developed in the town of Sevlievo when it saw economic growth in the end of the 17th century. Ottoman authorities showed interest in regulating crafts and developments in Bulgaria.

Ottomans coordinated the construction of clock towers in the country. The tower in Sevlievo was probably constructed in 1777, a date carved in Arabic numbers on the entrance of the edifice. The bell features other numbers, showing it was made two years earlier.

The main tower is higher than the others, made of stone and having thickness of 70 cm. Ropes connected to weights move the clock mechanism inside.

A copper dome covers the clock. It is situated in the middle of the construction, in a chamber of octagonal shape. The clock mechanism is made of iron. Wall openings allow the free movement of air.

Some of the outer wall stones feature images of tools and military artifacts carved into them.

A memorial plate was placed to honor 1877 events, when Russian intelligence officers entered Sevlievo.

In 1924, the municipality decided to construct a balcony that was to serve the needs of firefighters. The tower was electrified and a siren was placed inside.

Major renovation works took place in 1965. In the 60s, the institute of culture monuments registered the tower. Renovation of the wooden construction was needed in 1967, when the face of the clock was also changed.