Samokov combines a rich history of crafts and art with a connection to the Rila Mountains. The town developed around large hammers used for iron production, while an important Bulgarian art school created works for churches and monasteries. This means that cultural and historical interests go hand in hand with hiking, trekking, mountaineering and other sporting opportunities when planning a trip.
Crafts and art as the town’s history
Samokov developed around large mechanical hammers, known as samokovi, which were used to produce iron. Ironworking and livestock farming supported a diverse craft tradition. This included more than 300 wheels for weaving and 40 aba workshops. These figures give the town’s craft history a concrete shape: it is not just about individual works of art, but also about various trades connected to the local economy.
Samokov is also associated with an important Bulgarian art school from the National Revival period. Its painters, icon painters, engravers and woodcarvers created works for churches and monasteries. Goldsmithing and clockmaking were also part of the local craft tradition. Iron production, livestock farming, artistic work and other crafts thus offer different ways to explore the town’s history.
Churches and monastic history
Belyova Church is the oldest Christian church within Samokov. It stands on the foundations of a late antique basilica dating from the 4th to the 6th century; this date refers to the basilica. The wall paintings and icons were created by Nikola Obrazopisov and his assistants, while the iconostasis was made by Samokov woodcarvers. This example shows how painting, icons and woodcarving each contributed to the design of a church interior.
Another chapter in the town’s religious history is the Shroud of Holy Mary Convent. Fota of Samokov founded it in 1772 and donated her own house for it. The convent church was built later, between 1837 and 1839. The convent’s founding and the construction of the church were therefore two separate stages. In the 19th century, the convent developed a wide-ranging educational program. Icons in the church are attributed to Dimitar Zograf; a wall painting in the narthex is said to be by Zahari Zograf.
Historical museum and events
The Historical Museum in Samokov was founded in 1936 through the efforts of local artists. It organizes temporary exhibitions and other events in its field. The museum thus complements the town’s art and monastic history with an exhibition and events program. If you are planning to visit a specific exhibition or event, check the current dates, as the program may change.
The Rila Mountains and sporting opportunities
Samokov’s location in the Rila Mountains and Rila National Park offers opportunities for hiking, trekking and mountaineering. There is more to explore than mountain sports: Samokov also has a mountain bike park and a multifunctional sports hall where 25 sports can be practiced. When planning, you can choose between cultural history, activities connected with the mountain landscape, mountain biking and indoor sports without needing to combine these different interests into a single outing. If you are planning hikes or trekking, bear in mind that trail conditions may change.
Bus timetables for planning
Samokov Municipality publishes timetables for bus services between villages and towns, as well as for two municipal bus lines. If you want to include bus journeys in your plans, check the current municipal timetable before traveling, as bus times may change.
Discover more destinations: Dolna Banya, Pravets, Mramor, Raduil, Godech.
Return to the main travel overview: Sofia Province / Sofia.
