Bulgaria Inside

Narrow cobblestone streets, unique architecture, various craft shops and historic monuments characterize Blagoevgrad’s Varosha district. Varosha has preserved its revival-period spirit in the small traditional houses. The district could be seen as a walk from one art to another.

Varosha appeared in the 17th century in the foot of Delvinski hill. In the 17th and 18th centuries Varosha resembled a Turkish district and was the only residential part that featured Christian population. No more than 200 families lived there. During that period, three bridges connected the district to other parts of town, all situated across Bistritsa River.

During the revival period. Varosha turned into home for the best teachers and culture activists in the region. They openly advocated uprisings and independence struggles.

When it comes to architecture, Varosha resembles many other old settlements in the country. Until the beginning of the 20th century, the district featured one-storey houses. Soon after, new tendencies affected architecture and houses got outer decorative painting. An example of this development is Moshtanska house built in 1888. The authentic looks of the building have been preserved till present day.

In the 80s of the previous century, Blagoevgrad municipality decided to renovate Varosha, since most of the houses saw some destruction over the years. Their authentic looks have been preserved. Only two of the buildings have private owners. The rest have been turned into workshops, art galleries and art centers focusing on painting, ceramics and literature.

The word Varosha has old Bulgarian origin and one of its many meanings is old town.

Vuvedenie Bogorodichno church is one of the landmarks to be seen in the district. The church has been named monument of culture. Other landmarks include the house of April Uprising revolutionary Georgi Izmirliev, the regional history museum and the directorate of Rila National Park.

Varosha itself has been named a monument of culture.

Blagoevgrad residents and town visitors associate Varosha with history, traditions and a nice place for walks and relaxation. Two hotels and several restaurants welcome tourists there.