The Geographic Setting of Zlatitsa
Zlatitsa lies in a picturesque mountainous region, cradled between the Stara Planina and Sredna Gora mountain ranges. Connecting these giants are the ridges of Gŭlŭbets and Koznitsa, framing Zlatitsa in the highest of the Sub-Balkan fields, known as the Zlatishko Pole or Zlatishka Basin. The area boasts a temperate continental climate, marked by a fascinating interplay of cold northern air masses funneling through the Danubian Plain and Zlatishki Pass and warm subtropical breezes traveling along the Topolnitsa River.
Zlatitsa’s Neighbors: A Constellation of Historic Towns
To the northwest lies Etropole, while Teteven marks the northeast. Panagyurishte graces the south, and to the east, the historic towns of Pirdop, Koprivshtitsa, Klisura, Sopot, Strelcha, and Karlovo dot the landscape. Westward, you’ll find Elin Pelin and Sofia, the nation’s capital. These towns form a mosaic of history and culture, with Zlatitsa at its heart.
Transportation Hub: Connecting Regions and Histories
Zlatitsa serves as a crucial crossroad. The Zlatishki Pass and Etropole connect it to northern Bulgaria, linking towns like Botevgrad, Pravets, Mezdra, Vratsa, and Pleven. Southward, Panagyurishte provides access to Pazardzhik and Plovdiv. The town also offers the most direct route from Sofia to the Black Sea, traversed by Bulgaria’s longest railway tunnels—Koznitsa (6 km) and Gŭlŭbets (3 km).
Rivers That Shape the Land
Zlatitsa is home to several rivers in the Topolnitsa River basin. Kuru Dere flows through the town center, originating beneath the Svishchi Plaz peak. Sanar Dere runs east of the center, merging with Kuru Dere near the main road to Pirdop. Meanwhile, Balŭm Dere winds past landmarks like a former tailoring factory, a carpentry workshop, and an area called “The Cave.” South of Zlatitsa, these rivers unite to form the Zlatishka River, which later blends with the Pirdopska River before joining the Topolnitsa.
Zlatitsa Through the Ages
Ancient Foundations
The origins of Zlatitsa are shrouded in mystery. Archaeological discoveries, including ancient tools and artifacts, suggest its existence dates back to antiquity. The settlement was likely established as a haven for Roman soldiers guarding mining galleries. Its Roman name, Ulpia Aurea, reflects the wealth of gold extracted from galleries beneath the Svishchi Plaz peak.
A Contested Name
While “Ulpia Aurea” is widely cited, some historians believe it to be a modern myth. Evidence suggests that the Roman Emperor Marcus Ulpius Traianus, who ruled from 98 to 117 CE, reserved his name for significant urban centers, such as Ulpia Serdica (modern Sofia) and Ulpia Pautalia (modern Kyustendil). The Roman settlement near Zlatitsa was destroyed during the Gothic invasions of the 3rd century, with limited historical significance compared to other ancient cities.
Medieval Zlatitsa
First mentioned in a document by Tsar Konstantin Asen (1257–1277), Zlatitsa became a vital administrative center in the Middle Ages, fortified by strategic mountain passes. Despite fierce resistance, it fell under Ottoman rule 30 years after the capital, Tarnovo, in 1393. Its location later made it the seat of the Zlatishka Kaza during Ottoman rule. In 1443, the area witnessed a battle between the crusaders of Władysław III of Varna and John Hunyadi against the Ottoman forces.
The Ottoman Era: Rebellion and Resilience
During Ottoman rule, Zlatitsa became a hub of resistance. Folk songs commemorate local heroes like Stoyan Bratoev, Detelin Voivoda, Manush Voivoda, and Rada Voivoda, who led rebel bands against the oppressors. In the 17th century, members of the Zlatitsa-based Chernevi family founded the village of Rŭzhevo Konare, fleeing Turkish persecution.
Zlatitsa’s Renaissance and Revolution
Economic Prosperity
The 18th and 19th centuries marked Zlatitsa’s economic heyday. Livestock breeding and related crafts brought prosperity, making Zlatitsa a major supplier of sheep products to the Ottoman Empire. This wealth spurred a vibrant cultural and spiritual revival. In 1777, the iconic clock tower, now a symbol of Zlatitsa, was built. A monastic school was established in the early 19th century, laying the groundwork for modern education.
Revolutionary Spirit
In 1872, Bulgaria’s revolutionary hero Vasil Levski founded a secret committee in Zlatitsa’s monastery, part of the Internal Revolutionary Organization. The town played a vital role in Bulgaria’s fight for independence.
Modern Zlatitsa: A Town of Resilience
Zlatitsa’s importance waned after Bulgaria’s liberation, as administrative changes moved key functions to neighboring Pirdop. However, its historical legacy endures. Once considered a candidate for Bulgaria’s capital, Zlatitsa remains a treasure trove of history, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of its mountainous landscape.
