Samokov – The White Gateway to Rila
Location
The town of Samokov is situated along the two banks of the river Iskar at the foot of Rila mountain at an altitude of 950 m above sea level. The vast Samokov valley, surrounded by hills covered with forests, provides unique views of the high peaks of Rila. Mount Musala, the highest on the Balkan Peninsula, rises at an altitude of 2925m. Samokov is 60 km to the south-east of the capital city of Sofia and 110 km from Plovdiv, the second largest city in Bulgaria. The population of the town is approximately 30,000 people.
 |
 |
 |
History
The past of the town was closely related to iron production. Iron mining was established on the Balkan Peninsula in 6th century. The excavations on Shishmanov peak (along the road to Beli Iskar) are expected to revise considerably the concept of the towns origin. The fortress on Shishmanov peak was a significant fortification construction which safeguarded the road, the ore-mining villages and Samokov. Legends and myths tell about Saxon ore- miners who once constructed the first samokovi (heavy hammers used to strike the hot iron) and this is where Samokov got its name from. This probably happened in 13th century. In 1371 Samokov was conquered by the Ottomans. It remained prosperous and became the most important iron-mining centre in the European provinces of the Ottoman Empire. A number of travelers and chroniclers have given interesting information about the town as a centre of extreme industrial importance. At the beginning of 19th century Samokov became a significant educational centre famous for its philosophers and teachers.
Sightseeing in Samokov
Town History Museum
Situated in the town centre, the museum has two displays presenting the rich cultural and historical heritage of Samokov: “Samokov-Spirit and Metal” and “Samokov School of Arts”. Here you can admire a large selection of wonderful paintings, portraits and icons.
Sarafska House
Built in 1866 by the wealthy Jewish family Arie, this magnificent building is a fine example of the urban culture of the 19th century.
Bairakli Mosque
The Bairakli is the only one of the twelve Samokov mosques which has been preserved up to the present day. Decorated by icon-painters from the Samokov School of Arts, it combines local traditional painting styles with the European styles of Baroque and Rococo.
The Big Drinking Fountain
Built by the Ottomans in 1866, it has been standing symbolically in the town centre ever since and is a real masterpiece made of stone. In 1928 it was proclaimed a ‘monument of culture’ which saved it from demolition. The water flowing from its spouts is so cold and tasty that a common belief has existed for years that whoever drinks water from the Big Drinking Fountain, will remain in Samokov forever.
Memorial Community Centre ( Chitalishteto)
This impressive building in the town centre represents the people of Samokov `s desire to recognize the cultural heritage of their town as well as honouring the memory of the victims of many wars. The foundation stone of the building was laid in 1912, but the wars to come interrupted the construction. The building was later completed and officially consecrated on 23rd December 1923.
Churches
Four of the five churches in the town are devoted to the Holy Virgin who, according to legend, has been protecting the town from misfortune.
The Nunnery
A remarkable architectural monument from the time of the Bulgarian Revival, nowadays it is the only active monastery in the town with authentically preserved buildings and gardens.
Mitropolitska church ( The Bishop`s church)
First built as a small place for worship in 1711, it was later enlarged, rebuilt and decorated. It is remarkable for its walnut iconostasis, made by a craftsman from Mount Athos. Visitors will be fascinated by the wood-carved cherubs, flowers and scenes from the Old and New Testament.
Belyova Church
The oldest church in the town, it was constructed on the foundations of a late antique basilica from 4th-5th century. A legend connects the present day building with the name of the local boyar (a member of the higher Russian nobility) Belyo, who initiated the building of the church. The relics of St. Simeon Samokovski, the patron saint of the town of Samokov, are kept here. The day of St.Simeon Samokovski, 21st August, is the town`s most significant celebration. Various events take place – folk programs, exhibitions, a festival of the tourist song and a beauty contest.
Sports facilities in Samokov
There are several tennis courts in the town and two outdoor swimming pools. The latest addition to sporting life is the multifunctional sports hall which was officially opened by the President of the Republic of Bulgaria on 8th March 2008. The ceremony was followed by a spectacular All Stars basketball match with the participation of the country`s best players. The edifice includes two halls – the first one with 2200 seats can host 16 different types of sports events and the second one is a smaller training hall. The adjacent buildings will soon host a training complex, a swimming pool and a hotel.
Motor Sports
The ‘Rido’ racing track on a nearby hill has been entirely modernised to meet international standards. Several times a year this track hosts national as well as international competitions.
Local Villages
As well as Beli Iskar the villages of Mala Tsarkva, Godvedartsi and Madjare offer a glimpse of traditional Bulgarian life with their churches, small restaurants, cafes and friendly local people.
Shopping for food in Samokov
The Billa supermarket, situated on the road to Borovets, is one of the best options for your shopping. Supermarket Europe in the Samokovo Housing complex is another good option if you are on the western bank of the river Iskar.