Museum of the architectural historical reserve “Bozhentsi”
It is one of the most picturesque architectural ensembles of the Revival period, declared an architectural and historical reserve in 1964 with its а hundred or so authentic houses. ‘Bozhentsi’ is located 16 km. northwards of Gabrovo. This little village with its nearly 600-year old history has preserved the authentic atmosphere, spirit and architecture of the Bulgarian Revival. Nowadays the village is one of the preferred ecological and country tourism destinations.
High stone walls, oak entry doors with forged iron accessories, narrow cobbled streets, stone fountains and bridges and small workshops add to the unique atmosphere. Several of the houses in Bozhentsi have been transformed into museums. The museum house of Baba Rayna presents an ethnographic exhibition of the 18th century. The livelihood of the local people from the 19th century can be seen in the museum house of Doncho Popa.
Visitors can learn more about the history of the village, the reserve and the big families in Bozhentsi in the exhibition called “Only the daredevils and generous donators remain in the history”. An authentic press for wax cleaning from the beginning of the 19th century is exposed in the Mengemata – a wax cleaning workshop.
Another interesting exhibition is presented in the Monastery school – there visitors can see the typical layout of a classroom of the nineteenth century. The temple “St. Prophet Elijah” is also located on the reserve territory. The temple was built in 1839.
Each year in June a children’s plein air takes place and in September there is an international plein air painting. Bulgarian folk customs are performed during major religious holidays. The village offers opportunities for recreation in the 27 restored houses which have preserved the enchantment of the past while being adapted to the modern accommodation requirements.
For more information about the museum visit: https://bojentsi.com/en
