Bulgaria - The old village of Kovachevitsa

Bulgaria | The old town of Kovachevitsa

Foto: The old town of Kovachevitsa (bron: Ronald van der Veer)

Bulgaria - I slowly descend into the valley. On the other side, I see Kovachevitsa. I anxiously watch the clouds. The weather forecast for today is bad. There is a high chance of rain. I also see dark clouds hanging against the mountains, but the clouds are not yet passing over the mountain slope. I realize that predicting the weather is very difficult in such a mountainous area. I take advantage of the dry weather and continue walking towards Kovachevitsa. At the bottom of the valley, I cross a bridge. The beams of the bridge are completely rotten. I carefully walk in the middle of the bridge where a sturdy support beam lies. I don’t think this bridge will still be there in a few years. When I safely walk up the other side of the valley, I enter the old village of Kovachevitsa. An old characteristic village in Rodopi architecture, with houses built of stone and wood. Unfortunately, several houses have also collapsed. I walk through the narrow streets and look at the houses. It is sometimes a miracle the houses are still standing. They lean or are supported with poles. In the local café on the main street, I order a cola. From the terrace, I enjoy daily life. I see locals walking in the streets and another group of tourists approaching in the distance. I actually expected many more tourists here.

Bulgaria | The old village of Kovachevitsa
Bulgaria | The old village of Kovachevitsa
Bulgaria | The old village of Kovachevitsa

The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

Bulgaria | The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

Bulgaria - The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, located in the Bulgarian capital Sofia, is an iconic symbol of the country and one of the most impressive Orthodox cathedrals in the world. The majestic building, dating from the late 19th century, is known for its beautiful ...

The Rila Monastery

Bulgaria | The Rila Monastery

Bulgaria - Just before three o’clock, I arrive at the Rila Monastery. I walk through the gate into the courtyard. I’m immediately impressed by the beautiful monastery. I see black and white striped buildings all around. In the middle of the spacious courtyard ...

The Yagodina Cave

Bulgaria | The Yagodina Cave

Bulgaria - Around four o’clock, I arrive at the Yagodina Cave. I put my backpack and camera in the bus. Photos are not allowed inside the cave. The guide welcomes me. He tells his story in Bulgarian, and Svetoslava translates for us. I look at the guide as he ...

Veliko Tarnovo

Bulgaria | Veliko Tarnovo

Bulgaria - Around noon, we enter Veliko Tarnovo. In ancient times, this area was the most important city of Bulgaria. The remains of the walled Tsarevets fortress lie on three hills in the city. Upon entering Veliko Tarnovo, we expect signs pointing to this historical ...

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