Bulgaria Inside

Southwestern Bulgaria houses the town of Vratsa. It is situated 100 km away from Sofia and is hidden in the folds of Stara Planina Mountain. Historic evidence shows that the region has its inhabitants since ancient times. Vratsa turned into a major regional settlement and a craftmen’s town. Its name came from the Slavic word vratitsa, meaning a small door. The shape of the pass leading to the town produced the name. The pass is narrow and long, resembling a door.

During the Ottoman reign over the region, Vratsa acted as an important settlement and many of its craftsmen became wealthy. Trade and relations with other cities and countries were responsible for the growth. After the liberation, craftsmanship continued evolving and turned into an industry. Today Vratsa acts as a major industrial center.

Evidence of many historic periods has been preserved there. The Vratsa history museum has numerous artifacts. The oldest human skeleton, found in Bulgaria, can be seen there. Experts believe that it is at least 8000 years old.

In 1985, the village of Rogozen became the site of a major discovery. The Rogozen Thracian treasure, the biggest found until now, was uncovered there. It is made of 165 items and has traveled all over the world. A part of the treasure is kept in Sofia’s National History Museum.

Apart from the museum, visit Vratha’s ethnographic and revival complex Sofronii Vrachanski.

In the mountain area above the town, you can see the complex Vestiteliat. The independence of the town was pronounced there on November 9 1877. Vratsa residents like to walk there, following the steep stone steps to a place that offers wonderful view of the town.

Meshchiite tower is one of Vratsa’s biggest landmarks. It dates back to the 16th century and was constructed to meet the demands of local influential people.

Kourtpashovata tower resembles a medieval castle. It was constructed in the 17th century and acted as a residence.

Alpinists prefer Vratsa pass. The rocks there attract mountain climbers but locals warn that the difficulty level is high. The region has a wonderful relaxation spot, Chaika restaurant.

Numerous caves are situated near Vratsa. Ledenika, one of the most beautiful caves in the country, can be explored nearby. It was discovered accidentally. Today, Ledenika offers excellent tourism opportunities. The name comes from the ice formations that appear in the first hall of the cave. It maintains a temperature of -20 degrees Celsius, though the other parts have a constant higher temperature. Few valleys near the cave can be used for a picnic.

Ponora cave is situated near the town of Chiren. The cave is beautiful with its underwater halls.
 
Some of Bulgaria’s biggest waterfalls are also located near Vratsa. Skaklya is 141 m high. The waterfall of Borov Kamuk is accessible since the opening of an eco-path leading to it.