ARCHITECTURAL AND HISTORICAL RESERVE
Bojentzi is a small village situated on the north flanks in the central parts of the
Stara planina mountain range at an altitude of 750 meters, 16km east of
Gabrovo and 40km from
Veliko Turnovo. The village is architectural and historical reserve with 600 years old history.
Its architecture presents the typical characteristic features of the housing construction of the Bulgarian Renaissance. The small houses lie on both banks of the Bojanka river, which takes its source not far away from the village. Here, tourists may find calmness and quietness, getting into the far-off days of the past.
According to the legend, the village was founded by a noble-woman, whose name was Bojana, who found shelter with her nine sons in the mountains after
Veliko Turnovo was conquered by the Turks in 1393.
Stock-breeding, different handicrafts and trade were the basic means of livelihood in the village. During the Bulgarian Renaissance it changed its architectural appearance. The hilly relief let the constructors of the settlement create one of the most picturesque architectural exterior, dating back to the National Revival period. High stone fences, oak doors, studded with nails, tiny cobblestone-paved lanes, stone fountains and bridges, as well as small shops create the incredible atmosphere of this cozy beautiful place. One of the most typical houses from that period is the house of Doncho Popa (Father Doncho).
Today, it is widely- known that Bojentzi is the birthplace of a great number of distinguished Bulgarian writers, artists, architects and scientists.
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