Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
counterattack in the 1877 Russo- Turkish War. Aside from the bucolic peacefulness here,
the exquisite Shipka Monastery with its golden dome, and the Freedom Monument (dedic-
ated to the soldiers who died fighting the Turks), make Shipka a great day trip from
Kazanlâk. While it's easiest done by car, regular minibuses also go.
Shipka is now also world famous for some amazing archaeological remains. In 2004 a
2400-year-old burial shrine for Thracian King Seutus III was uncovered nearby, contain-
ing vast amounts of Thracian gold and a unique golden mask, which were promptly sent
on triumphant tours of world museums. The tomb's physical remains can be seen, but the
gold resides in Sofia.
Sights
Shipka Monastery
(Shipka Pass)
Even before arriving in Shipka, you'll see the splendid, onion-shaped
golden domes of the
Nativity Memorial Church
(admission 2 lv, photography permit 5
lv; 8.30am-7pm)
glittering from amidst verdure above the village, framed against the
mountain. Part of the Shipka Monastery, and also called the Church of St Nikolai, the
magnificent structure was built in 1902 to honour soldiers who died at the Shipka Pass
battle.
The design is deliberately influenced by Russian architecture, and features five golden
domes and 17 church bells that resound for several kilometres. Inside the crypt Russian
soldiers who perished are interred, and frescoes depict scenes from Russian history. If it's
not cloudy, the church offers marvellous views of the Valley of Roses. To get there, follow
the sign labelled Hram Pametnik for 1.2km through the village, or walk 300m up from the
restaurant along the Kazanlâk-Gabrovo road.
MONASTERY
Shipka Pass
(Mountain)
About 13km along a winding road north of Shipka village is the Shipka Pass
(1306m). Some 900 steps lead to the top of Mt Stoletov (1326m), dominated by the im-
pressive, 32m-high
Freedom Monument
(admission free; 9am-5pm)
. It was built in
1934 as a Russo-Turkish War memorial.
The monument pays tribute to the 7000 Russian troops and Bulgarian volunteers who,
in August 1877, died while successfully repelling numerous attacks by some 27,000 Turk-
ish soldiers desperately trying to relieve their besieged comrades in Pleven. To reach the
pass from Kazanlâk or Shipka, take any bus to Haskovo, Gabrovo or Veliko Târnovo and
ask to get off at the Shipka Pass (Shipchensky prokhod).
