Bulgaria

Stepping back in time @ Tryavna

Paloma has bagged herself a riverside spot, in the Bulgarian woodcarving centre of Tryavna, (N42.86401 E25.48628).

Strolling through the neat, cobbled streets, traditional white-washed buildings designed with characteristic roofs, overhanging eaves and wooden shutters, it  indulges you with a real glimpse of architectural genesis from the Bulgarian National Revival Period. 


Despite another cooking hot day , inside the windowed shops, craftsman can be seen busily crafting beautiful wood, ceramic and textile creations in their tiny workshops, and it seems that nearly every house in this part of town has been preserved in honour of it’s ancestors.

First impressions would appear that little has changed for centuries, such is the attention to detail given to protecting their cultural and historical heritage. 


As it’s a Sunday afternoon sadly the touirst office was closed so we had to relay on Wikipedia for a little background info, The original settlement dates back as far as 1565, and both the Thracian and Romans have inhabited the area, but, from the Eighteenth Century, it has flourished as a trading and cultural hub

It is said that Traditions have been passed down by generations who are continually learning and sharing their talents though the Tryavna Artistic School which is one of the oldest, and most famous in Bulgaria.

Crowds of tourists seem to have descended on this small town to immerse themselves in the beauty and skills of crafts. The place is humming with people, it has a real holiday vibe, and not an American or japenses accent in ear shot – have we found a real Bulgarian holiday spot?

Tryavna is particularly famous for its icon painting and wood-carving.


 in Dyado Nikola Square is another well-known attraction – the Clock Tower. Built from stone, it dates back to 1814 and stands at 21 meters tall with a decorative pointed dome. 


The rest of the square is made up of cafes and nearby shops. While you’re there, it’s almost rude not stop and soak up the  atmosphere at your leisure.

From the square you can either take a walk across the arched, stone bridge where the River Trevenska flows underneath, and pass by local shops which sell unique tourists tat.


or 

go left from the clock and amble down the craft street ,where you’re able to watch the skilled craftsmen at work making jewellery, leather, wooden items and icon paintings. 

The buildings on this street are themselves works of art and was declared a cultural and historical reserve back in 1979. 

A really great stop over, loads to see and do !

We did find a few modern wood sculptures and then some other cool statues so keep your eyes peeled !


Paul.

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