in a mountainous region, Lopyan village boasts a unique blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. Situated at 24° 4′ 60E and 42° 52′ 0N, the village connects to neighboring settlements—Etropole, Malki Iskar, and Yamna – via a network of roads that wind through its rugged terrain.
Geography and Boundaries
The landscape of Lopyan intertwines with its neighboring village, Yamna, which became an independent settlement in 1964. The combined territory spans a remarkable 86 km², with an average altitude of 500 meters for the village itself and 100 meters for its surrounding lands.
Southern Borders
To the south, the boundary follows the ridge of the Balkan Mountains, touching the lands of Chelopech village and extending east to the towns of Zlatitsa and Pirdop.
Eastern and Western Extensions
The eastern edge starts from Cherni Vit and Brusene, passing through the evocative landmarks of Razboi Napoya, Cherveno Prishoe, and Garbovska Polyana, before descending into the Svishtov River Valley near Lakite. The western perimeter snakes through Robovitsa, reaching the villages of Dzhurovo and Osikovitsa, then climbing towards the summit near Laga.
Northern Terrain
In the north, the territory rises and falls dramatically, weaving through sites such as Gabrachka, Tresishte, and Leskova Voda, before merging with the river valleys of Malki Iskar and Stara Reka.
Historical Roots
Ancient Beginnings
The origins of Lopyan trace back to the Thracian civilization. Evidence of this ancient era remains visible in the ruins of the Thracian fortress of Chertigrad, which continues to dominate the local lore.
Etymological Insights
The village’s name likely derives from the Thracian tribe known as the Luposi, which once inhabited this region. Their cultural and linguistic heritage echoes through the centuries, shaping the identity of the settlement.
Legacy from the Ottoman Era
During the Ottoman period, Lopyan remained situated where it stands today. A testament to this era is a 1645 manuscript documenting territorial disputes between Lopyan and Brusene. This artifact, written on parchment in Ottoman Turkish, resides in the Sofia Archives, offering a fascinating glimpse into the historical governance of the area.
A Land of Stories and Landscapes
From its towering ridges to its ancient ruins, Lopyan weaves a tapestry of geography, history, and cultural depth. The village stands not merely as a relic of the past but as a vibrant testament to the resilience of its people and the beauty of the natural world it inhabits.
Discover Lopyan—a place where history meets the mountains.
