Belogradchik is a town in northwestern Bulgaria, situated in the picturesque western region of the Balkan Mountains and in the southwestern foothills of Belogradchik garland of 522 m above sea level. It is the administrative center of the Municipality of Belogradchik. The population of the town is 5600 people, which makes it the second largest in the area.
First settlements in the region have occurred in the antiquity, proof for which is the array of artifacts found in the area, many of which from the time of Vespasian (69-79) and the latest from that era are from the time of Valerian (251-253).
The Romans first built a stronghold here in the 1st century, which partitioned off Pass St. Nikolas. New settlement emerged next to the fortress to serve the needs of the garrison. This probably happened in 3rd century, proof for which is the still existing part of Belogradchik fortress.
The settlement and fort continued to develop during the early Middle Ages. With the increasing importance of Belogradchik stronghold the settlement grew as well, reaching its zenith during the rule Sratsimir. Already in the First Bulgarian Kingdom in the field were several important forts (except the Belogradchik), scattered within a radius of fifteen kilometers from the city. The biggest was Uzbeg fortress, built on a huge rock, with wide viewing range. Later on for some reason, the function of this fortress subsides and during the Second Bulgarian Kingdom main fortress remains Belogradchik’s one.
The period of the Second Bulgarian State of Belogradchik and its region is characterized by building activity, especially during the XIV c. when the region of Vidin, parts of today's Serbia and Wallachia Malo / today Romania / itself as an independent kingdom. Its formation was preceded by a long self-management in Vidin on various local rulers from XІІІ century.
Belogadchik grew as an important military and crafts center - the second largest after Vidin. The village and castle fell under Turkish rule in 1396 - perhaps together with Vidin.
After the fall of Bulgaria under Ottoman rule Belogradchik retains its administrative functions and importance. During the first decades of Ottoman rule non Muslim other than those in the garrison had settled in the town. In the annals of national liberation struggles of the Bulgarian people against the Ottoman yoke, Belogradchik is defined as the center of the broke out in riots and uprisings in the region.
Although small in size, the town is rich in sights and museums. Belogradchik Historical Museum - has a collection of over 6,000 exhibits. Natural History Museum with the exhibition of 520 artifacts and fund of 2,500 more, presents the most attractive part of the rich biodiversity of the entire northwestern Bulgaria. The Historical Museum in the town of Belogradchik was founded in 1970 and is housed in "Panov house" - a model of western Bulgarian Revival architecture. This monument was built in 1810 and has retained its Renaissance and face today.
Fortress "Kale" is one of the best preserved in the country. Using the natural inaccessibility of the rocks in I-III century Roman fort here maintain the security of strategic roads that cross the region.
Of course, when talking about this town, it is impossible not the mention the famous Belogradchik’s rocks. Belogradchik Rocks are rock pieces, located in West Fore, near the town of Belogradchik. They are 200 meters high and consist of three rock groups. These unique and majestic forms were formed over millions of years. Inside them, were formed over 100 caves. Without any doubt the rocks are one of the biggest and most beautiful wonders of the world and one of the greatest treasures of Bulgaria.
Belogradchik is a small town with a modest and kind people, which makes it nice and quiet place with incredibly beautiful scenery.
For more information about this destination, please do not hesitate to contact us:
Phone: ![]()
+359-(0)52-357176
Fax: +359-(0)52-355288
Email: info@holidayshop.bg