Varovitets Waterfall plunges about 20 metres over several terraces into the riverbed of the Malak Iskar. As a protected natural landmark, it is a striking feature among Etropole’s natural attractions. The area also has wooded rock formations that are home to rare and endangered animals. The waterfall and the rocks reveal different sides of this landscape: the stepped drop here, the habitat among the rocks there.
Natural Landmarks and Trails
Chertigrad Fortress is a protected natural landmark comprising wooded rock formations. They provide a habitat for rare and endangered mammals as well as birds of prey. From Yamna, the marked “In Benkovski’s Footsteps” trail leads to the fortress in about two hours. Benkovska Cave can also be reached from Yamna via this marked trail; it is designated both as a historic site and as a protected natural landmark.
The rock formations Kuklite and the “Orlov Kamak – Chervenata Stena” rock complex offer another way to find your bearings. Both can be reached via the paved road from Lopyan towards Yamna. “Orlov Kamak – Chervenata Stena” is also a protected natural landmark; the rock complex is home to numerous rare and endangered birds of prey. For planning your trip, the route and road information is useful: an approximate duration on a marked trail is given for Chertigrad, while road directions are provided for Kuklite and Orlov Kamak.
Etropole Municipality provides hiking trails with GPS coordinates for download. If you are planning to take the marked trail to Chertigrad or Benkovska Cave, check trail conditions locally.
Monastery, Churches, and Historic Sites
The “Holy Trinity” Monastery lies 5 km east of Etropole on the northern slopes of Cherni Vrah. It was designated an architectural, historical, and artistic cultural monument in 1964. In the 16th and 17th centuries, the monastery served as a scriptorium where liturgical and biblical books were copied. The “Etropole Christ’s Cross” tourist attraction also includes an eco-trail from the monastery to the village of Ribaritsa.
The “Archangel Michael” Church combines architectural history with fine craftsmanship. It was built in 1837 by the master builders Hristo from Ohrid and Hristo from Etropole. The pierced walnut iconostasis was later coated with gold bronze; the royal doors and bishop’s throne are regarded as examples of Bulgarian art from the National Revival period.
The clock tower also tells of different building phases: Master Todor built it in 1710, and Master Dido made the clock mechanism in 1821. The tower is designated an architectural cultural monument. In November 1877, the Pavel Panchov House served as General Gurko’s headquarters. At the ancient settlement site of “Sveti Atanas” near Etropole, pottery fragments and the remains of destroyed buildings from the Early and Late Iron Ages were found; they are associated with the presence of a Thracian population.
Museum and Local Traditions
The Historical Museum in Etropole preserves and displays artefacts, documents, and photographs relating to the municipality’s cultural and historical heritage. Its exhibition was completely renewed in 1992 and comprises ten halls with more than 1,200 cultural artefacts. Its educational offerings include five thematic programmes with a total of 16 subtopics, as well as museum lessons, role-playing activities, workshops, and studios. As the programme may change, contact the museum in advance to ask about the formats you are interested in; also check current access arrangements before your visit.
A museum exhibition on the second floor of the Arnaudova House shows the interior of a home in Etropole during the Bulgarian National Revival period. To visit the house, contact the Historical Museum in Etropole. The Tourist Information Centre in Etropole provides information about sights and tourist sites in the municipality.
Among the recurring customs is “Peene na Prastenite”, held every year on 13 and 14 January in Etropole. On 13 January, it includes the “Melting of the Rings” ritual in Zolyovets Square. Atanasovden is celebrated on the last Sunday in January. The tradition includes decorations of ivy and snowdrops, dancing, and kebabs grilled over a fire in the mountains. If you would like to plan your trip around one of these dates, check the relevant programme announcement.
Travel Information
Etropole Municipality’s regional transport plan includes a bus route between Sofia and Etropole. A municipal round trip connects Etropole, Brusen, and Lopyan; departures from Etropole are scheduled year-round on weekdays at 5:30 a.m. As timetables are subject to change, check connections before your trip.
Discover more destinations: Etropole, Yamna, Slivnitza, Koprivshtitza, Kostinbrod, Pirdop, Svoge, Botevgrad.
For the regional travel overview: Sofia Province / Sofia.
