Road trip guide: Conquering the Arch of Freedom in Bulgaria
Located on the boundary of Lovech and Plovdiv provinces of Bulgaria, the Arch of Freedom stands as a monument commemorating the Bulgarians' heroic liberation struggle.
Why is the Arch of Freedom in Bulgaria famous?
Tucked away in the northern-central part of the country, the monument, also known as the Arch of Liberty, is at the summit of Goraltepe peak, at 1.585m (5,200ft) above the sea level. It is a 35m high concrete monument dedicated to the liberation struggle of the Bulgarians. It’s dedicated to the victory of the Russian army in January 1878 capturing the pass, leading to the liberation of Bulgaria from Ottoman regime. “In the chilly January in 1878, the Russian detachment attacks the pass. Despite of the deep snow, and chilly weather, they conquered the pass”. The monument also commemorates the Bulgarian - Russian unity following World War II. Built between 1978 and 1980, the monument was designed by architect Georgi Stoilov and sculptor Velichko Minekov.
Is the Arch of Freedom in Bulgaria worth it?
Perched majestically in the Balkan Mountains, the apex of the monument presents awe-inspiring panoramic views in every direction. On clear days, from the summit, one can marvel at the breathtaking vistas of Beli Osam and Troyan valleys, Sredna Gora, the Rhodopes, and Rila mountains, as well as the renowned peaks of the Balkan Mountains, with Botev, its highest peak, standing prominently among them.
Can you drive to the Arch of Freedom in Bulgaria?
The once well-paved road leading to the monument has deteriorated significantly, now exhibiting extremely poor conditions and almost resembling an unpaved path. Stretching across 1.0 km (0.62 miles) from the renowned Beklemeto-Troyan Pass, this road is very narrow, rendering it entirely impassable for two cars to pass simultaneously. Adjacent to the monument, there exists a parking site for visitors' convenience.