7 Things to do in Panagyurishte, Bulgaria
If you are wondering what to do during your day off or during the weekend, consider visiting Panagyurishte. With its great history and beautiful nature, the city has something to offer for any taste. And although its name is a mouthful to pronounce, you will have a good time with all the historical and cultural experiences the town has to offer.
Panagyurishte is located 90 km east of Sofia; for travelers from Plovdiv it is about 80 km northwest; and from Pazardzhik is just over 40 km. Panagyurishte is easily accessible for travelers from the Black Sea coast, just over 300 km from Bourgas on the Trakia highway, where there is a turnoff.
The city is accessible from all parts of the country, located in one of the most fertile regions of Bulgaria – the south-central region. The town is located at 550 meters above sea level and the climate is pleasant in spring & summer and mild in winter.
Now when you already know some key information for the town let’s dive into what to do in Panagyurishte.
1. Historical Museum and Dudekova house 🏠
They are located near the city center and share a common yard. Some of the expositions in the museum are “April Uprising of 1876″, “Participation in the Liberation Wars” and “Archeology”. In the museum, you can not only see the culture and way of life of the people back then, but you can also experience all the emotions from the preserved exhibits, inspiring patriotism and reminding of the greatness of the Bulgarian people.
Dudekova house is part of the museum complex and a wonderful architectural monument. The house was built in 1856 by Petar Dudekov – a rich merchant who was killed during the April Uprising.
The working hours and fees: Every day from 9:30 am to 5 pm, except Monday until 12.00.The museum is closed on 1 January, 24 and 25 December. Entrance fees for visiting all museums in the city are from 4 (students and pensioners) to 7 (adults) BGN.
Free days to visit the museums during the year are every last Monday of the month, May 18 – International Museum Day; and during the Night of Museums event (each year is on a different date).
Admission is free for people with disabilities, children from social homes, children up to 7 years and organized groups from schools in the Municipality of Panagyurishte.
2. The Golden Treasure of Panagyurishte 🏆
It is exhibited in the historical museum in Panagyurishte. There is probably no Bulgarian who has not heard of it, and if you have not seen it yet, this definitely must be your first stop. The treasure was discovered in 1949. It weighs an impressive 6 kg and 164 g, distributed in 9 incredibly fine and beautiful, masterfully crafted vessels.
The original treasure is exhibited in the National historical museum in Sofia, but here in Panagyurishte, you can see a unique duplicate of the Panagyurishte treasure. It is kept in the specially built vault hall, where it waits for the original who visits his hometown once a year.
3. The house of Rayna Knyaginya 🏚
This is the birthplace of Rayna Popgeorgieva Futekova – a remarkable woman for Bulgarian history who contributed to the April Uprising. Rayna Knyaginya was only 20 years old when she sewed all by herself the flag of the rebels. On April 22, 1876, the day of his consecration, it was her who led the solemn procession, mounted on a chosen horse, girded with a sword and revolver.
After the original flag was burned during the Russo-Turkish War, in 1901 Rayna Knyaginya made an exact copy of it, which is still in the house. You will find the house within a 5-minute walking distance from the Historical Museum, surrounded by green boxwood and a beautifully maintained Revival yard. It is working every day.
4. Lekova House 🏡
This is a house museum of a wealthy merchant Ivan Lekov – a revolutionary activist and participant in the April uprising. It is a beautiful example of Revival architecture. The decoration of the house was made by the local master Ivan Zografov.
5. Oborishte monument and the forest around 🌳
It is located 10 km northwest of Panagyurishte. At this place, in 1876, the first Grand National Assembly in the history of Bulgaria was held. It was then decided to declare the April Uprising. Later, a monument appeared on this place, which became a historical landmark that is worth visiting.
The area is located in a beautiful beech forest. The path to the monument is dotted with quotes on our great revolutionaries, along a path near a beautiful stream. The walk to the monument is suitable for visiting in all seasons, and every year on May 2 there are national celebrations at this place.
6. National Monument Apriltsi 🗿
It is located on the historic Manyovo hill above the city center. The place is more than impressive. It reveals an incredible view of the city and is the perfect end to your visit to Panagyurishte. After your emotional meeting with the historical events, this memorial will give you the final note of Revival spirit and Bulgarian pride. The locals also call the place “Borimechkata” after the eponymous hero of Ivan Vazov, who is also the central figure of the monument.
7. The Fountains in the town of Panagyurishte and the town park ⛲️
Both are a mandatory part of your walk, which will show you the modern look of the town. The fountains are equipped with unique water cannons, firing a water column at a height of 30 meters per less than a second, as well as a water screen measuring 30 x 15 m. The unique water spectacle delights visitors in the summer days with music and light show. The music, the light and the “water dance” are in perfect harmony. The fountains are located next to the Arena Assarel sports hall, as they are in the middle of the city park, which is suitable for walking and relaxing in all seasons.
Where to stay: Djudjeva house 🏨
The Djudjeva house is a family-owned hotel located in a restored 160 years old house. The main building was completed in 1860, which is evidenced by a sign on the water fountain in the yard. The house was owned by two great Panagyurishte’s families – Dedevi and Djudjevi. In 1984 the house was restored in order to be the residence of Pencho Kubadinsky (a communist leader). After the fall of the communist regime, the property was returned to the 21 heirs.
As you may see, the Djudjeva house has a long history and it is nowadays preserved in its original look, with unique architecture and spirit. The hotel consists of 2 houses for accommodation with 2 apartments and 6 double rooms, a restaurant, an old open-air oven, and a souvenir shop, all located in a spacious green yard.
Where to eat: Mehana The Old House 👩🍳
And if you get tired of all the sightseeing in the city, we strongly recommend you the traditional and delicious Bulgarian meals that mehana (traditional restaurant) The Old House can offer. Not only is the food delicious but it also has a beautiful garden and open area, with a place for kids. Mehana The Old House is perfect for breakfast, lunch and dinner, offering a wide range of typical Bulgarian dishes. The atmosphere is suitable with the history of the city and carries Bulgarian spirit.
Panagyurishte is a special and beautiful destination in Bulgaria. Don’t miss the chance to see its spirit and history.
This article was created in partnership with Djudjeva house as part of our efforts to support local, family-owned businesses. Give them a visit and choose to #supportlocal.
Samantha | April 10, 2022
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Great and very helpful tips!