Rural Village

Bozhentsi – a pretty rural village in the area of Gabrovo, is one of the most beautiful architectural reserves in Bulgaria. It is located 15 kilometers east of Gabrovo, about 3 hours away from Sofia, and impresses with its well-preserved houses and public buildings from the time of the Bulgarian Revival.

According to an ancient legend, the village was founded by a noblewoman from Tarnovo, called Bozhana, who settled in the town after her husband died during the conquering of the capital Turnovo at the time, by the Ottoman Turks. Thence came the name of the village.

The legend tells how rich people from Tarnovo came with Bozhana and brought along their rich culture and traditions.

In the 18th and 19th century the local people were earning their living mainly by trading and crafting. However, nowadays the town shows almost no signs of liveliness. The time has stopped somewhere in the 19th century. The unique architecture of the magnificent two-and three story houses arouses visitors’ admiration. More than 100 houses in Bozhentsi are preserved and restored to their original appearance.

The livelihood of the local people from the 19th century can be seen in almost every house in the village, some of which are turned into museums.