BLAGOEVGRAD » BULGARIA

BLAGOEVGRAD - Bulgaria » Administrative, cultural and transport capital of the Pirin region, Blagoevgrad is situated at the foot of the southwestern slopes of Rila mountain, on the banks of river Blagoevgradska Bistritsa, 101 km south of Sofia. The town originated in the first year of the Ottoman domination at the place of an ancient Thracian settlement. Nowadays, the modern civic center is of interest, but the restored old quarter Varosha is a home of unique 19th century houses. Landmarks are the Church of Annunciation of the Virgin, the History Museum, the Forest Park with a small zoo and a botanical garden. Neighboring houses form a colony of artists' studio and work shops with interesting craft demonstrations from the 19th century. Blagoevgrad is a starting point for a visits to the Pyramids of Stob, the antique fortresses by the village of Klisura, Selishte, Gabrovo and Tzerovo.