Situated 70 kilometers east of Sofia and 52 kilometers west of Karlovo along the Sub-Balkan Road, Pirdop is a hidden gem nestled in the Zlatitsa-Pirdop Valley. Resting at an altitude of 696 meters, the town spreads across a terrain that slopes gently from northeast to southwest, with the Pirdop River—a tributary of the Topolnitsa—meandering through its heart. Its expansive land area, covering 90.148 square kilometers, includes vast forested regions in the Zlatitsa-Teteven Mountain to the north and the Sredna Gora range to the south.
Gateway to Adventure. Pirdop
For nature enthusiasts, Pirdop serves as a launchpad for thrilling treks to nearby mountain lodges such as “Paskal,” “Momina Polyana,” “Artyovitsa,” and “Mali Izvor.” The town’s strategic location makes it a haven for explorers seeking tranquility and rugged landscapes.
Echoes of Ancient Times
Evidence of human habitation in the area dates back to the Neolithic era, with traces from the Thracian period adding to its historical allure. The remains of a significant late-antique and early medieval settlement enrich the region’s archaeological heritage.
Just 5 kilometers northeast of modern Pirdop lie the ruins of St. Elijah Monastery, a historic site that includes the still-standing Elenska Basilica. Once a thriving literary hub, the monastery functioned until the late 17th century. It is believed to be the birthplace of the Pirdop Apostle, a monumental work of Middle Bulgarian literature from the 12th century.
From Ottoman Records to Revolutionary Spirit
The first documented mention of Pirdop appears in an Ottoman text from 1430 under the name Purutobabinche. Over the centuries, the town’s name evolved, with variations like Pirdepop and Protopopintsi emerging in different historical records.
By the late 17th century, Pirdop was already a beacon of education with its cell school, and its residents played a role in the Chiprovtsi Uprising. In 1698, local teacher Georgi compiled the Protopopinski Damaskin, a key manuscript in Bulgarian literary history.
A Flourishing Center of Crafts and Education
During the 17th and 18th centuries, Pirdop thrived as a hub for livestock farming and wool processing. The town boasted hundreds of workshops producing braided wool cords, broadcloth, and carpets. In 1841, the town’s residents were freed from forced labor, further fueling its economic and cultural growth.
In 1840, a mutual school was established, which evolved into a classical school by 1853 and a girls’ school by 1863. The foundation of the “Napredak – 1869” Community Center marked another cultural milestone.
Revolution and Liberation
Pirdop played an active role in Bulgaria’s fight for independence. In 1869, a committee of the Internal Revolutionary Organization was formed in the town. Its residents joined the Serbo-Turkish War, Botev’s detachment, and the Bulgarian Volunteer Corps. Liberation came on December 21, 1877, when the 21st Don Cossack Regiment freed the town.
Decline and Resilience
Post-liberation, Pirdop faced significant challenges. The loss of Ottoman markets and competition from industrial production led to the decline of traditional crafts. A devastating flood in March 1923 saw the river overflow, inundating the surrounding areas.
During the turbulent times following the June Uprising of 1923, some nearby villages joined the rebellion, highlighting the region’s enduring spirit of resistance and resilience.
Pirdop’s story is one of perseverance, deeply rooted in history and enriched by its natural surroundings. From ancient Thracian settlements to revolutionary fervor, the town has weathered the tides of time. Today, it stands as a testament to Bulgaria’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, inviting travelers to uncover its secrets.
