Golyama Kosmatka

Travel through the notorious Valley of Roses to discover 4 of the most impressive monuments of Bulgaria from 3 historic periods. All of them are located on top of or at the foot of the longest mountain range in Bulgaria – The Balkan Range. Buzludzha is the most impressive monument of communist Bulgaria (from 1944 to 1989). Shipka Monument of Freedom and Shipka Memorial Church were built after and in memory of the Russian Turkish War of Liberation from 1877-1878. Golyama Kosmatka Thracian Tomb/temple was erected around 5-4 century BC by the ancient Thracian civilization inhabiting in huge numbers the Balkans at that time.

Travel through the notorious Rose Valley where the best rose oil in the world is being produced. In Kazanlak discover the unique Rose Museum and the local museum of history keeping more than 50 000 original exponents. The museum protects, examines and popularizes the entire rich historical heritage of the Kazanlak region, including all Thracian tombs and treasures from the Valley of the Thracian kings. In the same valley visit the impressive Golyama Kosmatka tomb/temple and the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site – the Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak, both from 4-5 century B.C. Finally visit the outstanding Christian Orthodox temple named Shipka Memorial Church built in memory of the Russian Turkish War of Liberation from 1877-1878.

The Thracian tombs and sanctuaries are the only almost entirely preserved representatives of the monumental cult architecture of the ancient Thracians. The main merit of their preservation to this day is that almost all of them are buried in tombstones. There are over 60,000 Thracian mounds on the territory of Bulgaria, of which only about 1000 are surveyed. We offer you to embark on a fascinating journey through the most sacred shrines of the ancient Thracians and to tour 6 tombs with amazing stories!!! Expect an incredible journey back in time in the Thracian era and their sacred world, beliefs and traditions, customs and history of the great kings!

Bulgaria is home to two fascinating valleys – the Valley of the Thracian Kings, strewn with millenia-old tombs, and the Rose Valley, home to spacious rose fields. See ancient tombs, among which is the UNESCO protected Kazanlak tomb, known for its remarkable ceiling frescoes. Visit the beautiful Damascena Ethnographic Complex, where you'll learn all about the oil-giving rose and the centuries-old traditions surrounding its cultivation.

Follow the steps of the notorious Rosa Damascena and learn about the cultivation of the flower and the traditions embedded in its history. On this tour, you will have the unique opportunity to enter a rose distillery and observe the process of rose oil extraction performed by the local people every year. Get the chance to taste some rose food specialities and learn more about the rosebud-picking rituals. Also, you will pass by some of the most historical towns in the valley which still preserve the rebellious spirit of the local population that lead to the wars against the Ottoman Empire. Driving up the scenic road towards Shipka Pass, you will have plenty of time to admire the breathtaking views which will open after every turn, revealing the beauty of the surrounding Balkan Mountain Range. The Shipka Monument is one of the symbols of the Bulgarian struggle for political, cultural and religious freedom and independence.