In the eastern foothills of the Vratsa Mountain, the quaint village of Chelopek boasts an intriguing blend of history and nature. Situated about 9 km south-southeast of the regional center Vratsa and roughly 3 km north-northwest of the Iskar River near the village of Lyutibrod, Chelopek perches on a relatively steep terrain with a predominant northeast slope. The village center’s elevation is approximately 602 meters.
An Intricate Network of Roads
A third-class national road, III-1004, meanders from Vratsa through the village of Pavolche, traversing Chelopek before continuing west and north to the peak of Okolchitsa (Vola). An intriguing municipal road heads southeast, linking Chelopek with Lyutibrod village, Lyutibrod railway station on the Sofia–Gorna Oryahovitsa–Varna line, and the second-class national road II-16.
Historical Tapestry of Chelopek
No historical monuments have yet been discovered in the Chelopek area. The village first appeared with its current name in an Ottoman document from the mid-15th century. In the late 18th century, Chelopek endured a harrowing period of plundering and burning by Kardzhali bands, causing its survivors to scatter into the mountain forests. Once the turmoil subsided, the villagers returned and rejuvenated Chelopek at its present location.
The Evolution of Education
The village school, established in 1879 as a primary institution, remained so until 1926 when a fifth grade (the first grade of middle school) was introduced. By 1934, sixth and seventh grades were added, transforming the middle school into a complete entity known as the People’s Primary School “Hristo Botev.” The school persisted through the years, even after 1944, until its eventual closure.
A Heroine’s Homeland
Chelopek is the birthplace of the Bulgarian heroine Baba Iliitsa, immortalized by Ivan Vazov in his story “One Bulgarian Woman.” The village proudly houses the Baba Iliitsa Museum.
Memorials and Trails
In the park near the central square stands a monument commemorating those who perished in the Balkan Wars, the Inter-Allied War, and both World Wars. The village features a tourist trail starting from the Baba Iliitsa Museum, winding through a forested area to the locale of “Krivulyo,” the final resting place of the voivode Pero Herzegovina. The trail spans 800 meters, culminating at the “Pogledets” tourist shelter. From Pogledets, adventurers can continue towards the peak of Okolchitsa.
Scenic Eco-Trails
A second eco-trail, originating from the Baba Iliitsa Museum, stretches northeast towards the historical site “Rashov Dol” above Lyutibrod, offering breathtaking views of the Iskar Gorge. From Rashov Dol, the path descends into a steep valley, leading to the spot where twelve Botev revolutionaries, led by Georgi Apostolov, were killed in 1876 while attempting to cross the river. The trail then proceeds across the Iskar River bridge towards the Cherniya Monastery.
Chelopek, with its captivating history, natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage, offers an extraordinary journey for those willing to explore its depths.
