Open Spaces around Veliko Turnovo - South

REGIONAL LANDSCAPE IDENTITY IN BULGARIA
Open Spaces around Veliko Turnovo
Project Partners
Municipality of Avrig, Romania
Responsible for the content of the brochure:
Astra National Museum Complex, Romania
University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences
Vienna, Institute of Landscape Architecture
Foundation Samuel von Brukenthal, Romania
IMC University of Applied Sciences Krems, Austria
University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences Vienna,
Austria
Municipality of Veliko Turnovo, Bulgaria
Municipality of Alexandroupolis, Greece
Regional Department for Cultural Heritage Apulia, Italy
Berlin University of Technology, Germany
Further information:
www.culttour.eu
2
DI Pixie Jacobs
DDI Anja Seliger
DI Jürgen Furchtlehner
Vienna, 2014
Content
5
How to use this brochure
7
Introduction
13
Open spaces around Veliko Turnovo
62
List of open spaces
64
Sources
Sofia
Project Partner-City
Veliko Turnovo
BULGARIA
3
4
How to use this brochure
How can a region identify itself through its landscape,
especially through its open spaces? What kind of open spaces
are there and why are they special for the region?
These questions and more will be discussed in this brochure.
First, an overview about the meaning of open spaces and
landscape characteristics in a region is given. Thereby, the
importance and the value of the landscape and espacially the
value of open spaces is discussed.
After an introducing statement on landscape characteristics
and open spaces in general, a compilation of noteworthy
open spaces around Veliko Turnovo is presented. All of the
presented sites are of local distinctiveness and can be seen as
potential for strengthening and developing a region and their
identity.
Background information to the sites is given, including hints
about the speciality of each open space. There are sites with
longer descriptions - these are more prominent and unique sites
- and there are open spaces with reduced description, which are
also worth a visit, especially if they are „on the way“.
All sites can be formed to a route, which can be composed
individually. The sites are reachable either by car, bus or train.
A few sites can only be reached by foot, even though there are
parking facilities or a train station close by.
Taking Veliko Turnovo as a starting point, all sites are within a
distance of 100 kilometers.
A summerizing list of the presented open spaces showing their
specific landscape characteristical aspect(s) can be found at the
end of the folder.
5
6
Introduction
The brochure „Regional Landscape Identity in Bulgaria - Open
Spaces around Veliko Turnovo“ presents open spaces in the
region around Veliko Turnovo and shows typical landscape
characteristics. The folder aims to highlight the specific
character of the area, exemplified through its open space
heritage sites.
The folder is presenting the singularity of the human built
landscape in the area and discusses what local characteristics
can be. In this sense it is necessary to understand that open
spaces are much more than gardens or parks. But what is an
open space and why is it worth to deal with them?
visible, an area can be experienced in an innovative way.
What is an open space?
The folder is also meant to help, strenghthen and develop
regional identity. Open spaces, literally formed by people
for people, are giving identity to a village, to a city or to a
whole region. People are using them for recreation purposes,
for meeting other people, for trading or just for passing.
Everybody is using open spaces in everyday life, consciously
or subconsciously. Thus, open spaces shape people and vice
versa. Open spaces reflect society. „The physical environment
is being shaped by culture, however culture is also the result
of the existential expression of a society being shaped by the
environment“ (Pellitero, 2011, 59).
Open spaces are human interventions in the cultural landscape
and can be of various types: all kind of parks and gardens,
other public sites like squares, promenades or boulevards,
memorials, exhibition sites or spiritual sites like churchyard
gardens or cemeteries, just to name some.
Open spaces are the backbone of each village, of each city.
Within open spaces, regional characteristics are present in the
landscape all around us all the time.
Through making them accessible and through making them
The brochure can be seen as a tool for people to get aware of
the significance of open spaces and of their presence in the
region. Furthermore, open spaces as indicators of the overall
quality of a city or of a whole region is a fact which is not
always apparent on the first sight, but which is evident for the
development of a city or a whole region. This potential as an
attractor and value (e.g. in fields of life quality, recreation,
biodiversity, micro-climate, education, social interaction,
economy, tourism) needs to be realized.
7
Each period of time brings out specifically formed open
spaces, as a result of social, political or economic reasons.
Sometimes they have been transformed over the years. Some
others have kept the original state. Both, transformed sites,
historic sites or even completely new open spaces have impact
on the life of people.
The presented sites have to be seen as an open list. There is no
ranking. The open spaces shown in the folder are noteworthy
examples (from a landscape architectural observation), but
there will be more to be discovered in the region.
The presented open spaces are the result of an intensive
research work in the area within Project CultTour. The city
of Veliko Turnovo as project partner of Project CultTour was
therefore chosen to be the starting point for investigating the
regions characteristics in the human shaped landscape and in
open spaces. Visiting the region, investigating and analysing
sites, searching for regional characteristics, talking to regional
experts, inhabitants or professionals from municipalities was
part of the elaboration process.
Like architecture is primarily dealing with buildings, landscape
architecture is a field dedicated to the designed landscape.
Designed landscape includes so-called open spaces inside and
outside of settlement areas. The genesis and the manifestations
of open spaces are topics of landscape architecture, which
make spatial, natural, cultural and social contexts to a matter
and task of landscape architects.
Traces of human intervention are present in each open space.
These human interventions and their temporal origins and
phases characterize and zone the space. The traces left behind
are complex and rich in associations. Open spaces with their
design, use, or facilities reflect the respective society and
culture of an area or region. Open spaces reflect the local
distinctiveness and the overall quality of a whole region. Since
this fact, landscape architecture can strengthen the regional
identity and the regional development.
All information gathered is broken to an understandable and
easy readable form, not only useable for professionals, but also
for other interested people. The brochure provides background
information to the sites as well as photographs to get a good
picture on the manifold types of open spaces found in the
region.
8
What is Landscape Architecture?
The benefits of a regional open space route
What is a region?
Taking the presented open spaces and forming them to
an individual regional route offers a new approach when
discovering and dealing with a region. Each region, each city
is consisting of various open space sites. The compilation of
the sites aims to point out exemplarily the regional character.
The sites are chosen in order to point out the regional
characteristics in open space exemplarily and to make them
visible. Each of the sites is chosen according to one or more
specific regional characteristics and their manifestation at the
site. This can be for example materials, plantings, ornaments,
memorials or statues, a specific historical and/or social context,
a specific design or colour, a typical pattern of urban planning
with impact on the site and many more (see also list of open
spaces and their characteristics on p. 62).
Open spaces are always embedded into urban or regional
landscapes and context. In this sense, each open space shows
specific regional characteristic and its manifestation.
“Compared with the individually experienced and produced
'place', the 'region' has an explicit institutionalised and
thus collective nature. Place refers to the process by which
everyday practices of individuals relate to the structures of
institutional power, whereas region is a symbolic entity beyond
direct experience produced by individuals only by collective
means” (Paasi, 1991, 11).
A region is characterized by various features, most of which
have impact on the landscape and on open spaces. But first of
all, what defines a region?
A region is kind of a coherent area. This coherent area consists
of a certain similarity and the similarity is defined through
certain features. One similarity feature can be for example
a dialect, a folk culture of a region (cf. Schindegger, 1999,
38). These features are so-called tangible features and they
can be depicted inter alia as language, religion, historical
processes, economy, trades and industries, regional products,
infrastructure, or ethnicity. Next to tangible features exist
intangible features. They define a regional space through a
9
daily life experience, intensive social interaction or networks.
The intangible features are leading to the precious feeling of
belonging (cf. Roth et al., 2009, 22).
Besides all the above mentioned characteristics, a region
is often defined by natural basics. Morphology shapes the
landscape through its mountains, seas or rivers. This causes
natural boundaries like they are very visible for example
at an island. Furthermore regions can be defined through
its functional integration like an economical area, an
administrative area or a network of cities (e.g. a city triangle).
What is regional identity?
“Social spaces and identities are changing throughout history,
but belonging, as the basic social need, always exits (quite
constantly) like the need for a food and safety” (Raagma,
2002, 7).
One of the first associations concerning identity may be
someone´s condition of being her and him selves. It seems
to be a quite stable condition, but in fact is “[...] the concept
of identity ambiguous and dynamic” (Meesly et al., no date,
19). One reason of these modifications is that identity is an
10
aggregate out of multifactorial elements.
The continuation of this thoughts leads to the the meaning of
spatial or regional identity. Speaking of the identity of a place,
a village, or a region, identity must be somehow connected to
one´s personal identity.
People do relate themselves with a place of origin or a place
of special personnel context. This place or area is not just
manifested through its morphological shape; it is linked to its
manifold cultural faces.
“Regional identity formation is a deeply social, spatial and
historical (cultural) phenomenon that contains a stabilising and
changing, destructive and constructing character” (Raagma,
2002, 2).
One explanatory method of the meaning of regional identity
is the model of Paasi. The model identifies four conditions
of regional identity. The first one is the morphological
appearance of a landscape; for example its boundaries. Paasi
defines it as the perceived space. Second condition is the
regions name, fauna and flora, color of earth, or its well known
personalities. It is the conceived space, or symbolic form. The
third space is the social one. It is characterized by its private
and professional relation ships, associations or educational
institutions. The fourth one is the spiritual space; it is “[...] the
emerging socio-spatial consciousness of the inhabitants and
the establishment of the region/locality in the regional system.“
(Raagma, 2002, 8).
All four conditions are not taking place behind one another;
they are taking place simultaneously. The fourth condition, the
spiritual space or region, may be also called genius loci. The
genius loci is a place that carries out the free association of
love. The bonding to a region is close to the feeling of love; it
is a deep emotion and can not be measured.
Summing up, the reader is meant to present the region in
a new focus. It shows the regional characteristics being
visible in open spaces and it helps to face the value of these
sites. Getting awareness of the potential of open spaces is
essential when developing a village, a city or a whole region.
Additionally, open spaces are always telling stories – they are
testimonies of the society and of the past. This circumstance
should not be neglected, but handled and used wisely.
11
12
Open spaces around Veliko Turnovo
13
Bulgaria and region around Veliko Turnovo
ROMANIA
Rousse
Varna
Pleven
SERBIA
Veliko Turnovo
Kazanlak
SOFIA
Sliven
BLACK SEA
Burgas
Stara Zagora
Plovdiv
Former Yugoslav
Republic of
MACEDONIA
TURKEY
GREECE
14
0
50
100km
N
Map of open spaces in the region
14 15 16 17 18 19
Pleven
13
Pavlikeni
20 21 22
10
Arbanasi
Lovech
Veliko Turnovo
12
Gabrovo
Legend
11 Gorna Oryahovitsa
Shipka Overpass
Lysakovets
09
01 02 03 04
05 06 07 08
Kalifarevo
23 24 25 26
27
28
Buzludja
Road
01
Open space
City or village
29 30 31
Kazanlak
15
16
Legend
i
Contact information
Type of open space
Noteworthy features
Opening hours
Entrance fee
Reachability
P
Car parking
Handicapped accessible
Facilities
Equipment
Atmosphere
Points of interest in the surrounding
17
01
Park Marno Pole
Veliko Turnovo
i
ul. Marno Pole, Veliko Turnovo
+359 62 622 148 (Tourist information Veliko Turnovo)
http://www.velikoturnovo.info/en/index/
Park
Hot spot and meeting point, historic elements and contemporary
design, water-cascades with terraces
24 hours
No
Car, train (Veliko Turnovo station approx. 1 km), local bus service
P
In the surrounding
Yes
Kiosk, shops, cafés etc. in the surrounding, restaurant in the park
Benches, lighting, litter bins, backgammon boards, fountains and
cascades,water-supply, skatepark, open-air theatre
Lively, vibrant and at the same time recreation island
City center of Veliko Turnovo, Park Boruna, Mayka Bulgaria
Veliko Turnovo
18
The park Marno Pole is located southwest of the historic center of
Veliko Turnovo. There was a former military camp and a place for
markets and fairs. The expansion of the city to the west resulted in
an increase in construction activity in the vicinity of Marno Pole,
especially in the period between the two world wars. The creation
of the park began in the beginning of the 1950s.
In 1955, an open-air theatre was constructed in the southern part
and in 1960, a fountain was built. Today there is a new water cascade instead of the old fountain. This large new cascade lights up in
the dark in a broad spectrum of colors. The area around the water
cascade is a popular place for the local population. In contrast, the
woody part of the park offers an ideal getaway.
Park Marno Pole
19
02
Park Boruna
Veliko Turnovo
i
ul. Alexander Stamboliyski, Veliko Turnovo
+359 62 622 148 (Tourist information Veliko Turnovo)
http://www.velikoturnovo.info/en/index/
Park, square, memorial site
Panoramic view, peninsula, impressive monument, river Jantra,
unique pavement, terraces, meeting point, temporary event-site
24 hours
No
Car, train (Veliko Turnovo station approx. 1 km)
P
In the surrounding
Limited
Art Gallery Boris Denev
Scattered benches, partly lighting
Extraordinary - although highly visible from far a place of silence
and relaxation with impressive focal point monument
City center of Veliko Turnovo, Art Gallery Boris Denev, Sveta Gora
Veliko Turnovo
20
Boruna is an area in the east of the city of Veliko Turnovo. It is
located on a peninsula, which is formed by the Jantra River. The
top of the peninsula was terraced. On the upper plateau there is
the Art Gallery Boris Denev, which was built in 1927. On the
middle plateau is the Asenevtsi Monument (by the sculptor Krum
Damyanov). It was built in 1985 to celebrate the 800th anniversary
of the uprising of Asen and Petar, which led to the liberation of
Bulgaria from the Byzantine Empire. The third and lowest plateau
serves as a spacious terrace with view on the opposite hill where
the old town of Veliko Turnovo is located. The banks of the
Jantra River are natural with a largely unspoiled flora and fauna.
In this vegetation, the peninsula is embedded and hence it offers
an escape, however, is a popular space for locals and tourist and
cultural events. The mixture of natural and artificial landscape give
this place a very special charm.
Park Boruna
21
03
Sveta Gora
Veliko Turnovo
i
Sveta Gora, ul. Alexander Stamboliyski, Veliko Turnovo
+359 62 622 148 (Tourist information Veliko Turnovo)
http://www.velikoturnovo.info/en/index/
Forest park
Large recreation area, long charming staircase, winding pathes
24 hours
No
Car, train (Veliko Turnovo station approx. 0,5 km)
P
In the surrounding
Limited
Benches, abandoned sports field and playground
Silence (shady forest, open meadows), „abandoned“
City center of Veliko Turnovo, Park Boruna
Veliko Turnovo
22
South of the Boruna area the land rises and forms a smooth
transition to the forest park Sveta Gora. The name Sveta Gora
(Holy Mountain) has a historic background because there were
well-known monasteries and churches located on the hill.
The forested hill is accessible by a broad staircase system and
winding pathes on the upper parts. A ruined restaurant still makes a
historical testimony of this place as a popular recreational area.
In its forest-like vegetation, Sveta Gora is a quiet retreat with
panoramic views of Veliko Turnovo.
In another part of Sveta Gora, there is still the university, which
stands on the site of a former monastery.
Sveta Gora
23
04
Open space of the Palace
of Culture and Sports
Wasil Lewski
Veliko Turnovo
i
ul. Krakov, Veliko Turnovo
+359 62641 992
Square
Unique design of entrance situation, former representation function,
remarkable interaction of the square and the building
24 hours
No
Car, train (Veliko Turnovo station approx. 2,5 km), local bus service
P
In the surrounding
Limited
Kiosk, shops in the surrounding
Benches, litter bins, lighting
Run-down site, lost, impressive
-
Veliko Turnovo
24
In the western part of Veliko Turnovo there is the Palace of Culture and
Sports Wasil Lewski. The complex was built in 1985 to celebrate the 800th
anniversary of the uprising of Asen and Petar, just like the Asenevtsi Monument on the Boruna-area. The monumental stand-alone building is partially
recessed so that only a broad staircase system could provide accessibility.
The building is surrounded by a generous square that reinforces the solitary
and monumental character and causes a detachment from the environment.
A mix of different floor coverings with different colors creates a noteworthy
pattern. Evergreen trees and shrubs enhance the separate character of this
complex of building and open space. Details in the open space like massive
flagpoles, characteristic laterns or benches built alongside on concrete walls
have to be mentioned as well. The whole site is a testimony - in its design and
in the used materials - of its high significance in the former communisitc era.
25
05
Mayka Bulgaria
Veliko Turnovo
i
pl. Mayka Bulgaria; bul. Vasil Levski, Veliko Turnovo
+359 62 622 148 (Tourist information Veliko Turnovo)
http://www.velikoturnovo.info/en/index/
Square, memorial site
Memorial of Bulgarian identity, meeting point
24 hours
No
Car, train (Veliko Turnovo station approx. 1 km), local bus service
P
In the surrounding
Yes
Lively, oasis in the city center
City center of Veliko Turnovo, Park Marno Pole, Park Boruna
Veliko Turnovo
26
View terraces along
Stefan Stambolov street
06
Veliko Turnovo
ul. Stefan Stambolev, Veliko Turnovo
+359 62 622 148 (Tourist information Veliko Turnovo)
http://www.velikoturnovo.info/en/index/
i
Squares
View terraces, recreation and vista spots
24 hours
No
Car, train (Veliko Turnovo station approx. 2 km), local bus service
In the surrounding
P
Yes
Spectacular, view to the far horizon and Boruna
City center of Veliko Turnovo, Mayka Bulgaria,
Park Marno Pole, Tsarevets Castle
Veliko Turnovo
27
07
Cemetery Veliko Turnovo
Veliko Turnovo
i
ul. Belyakovsko Shose, Veliko Turnovo
+359 62 621735; [email protected]
+359 62 622 148 (Tourist information Veliko Turnovo)
http://www.velikoturnovo.info/en/index/
Cemetery
Depiction of urban and regional history, cultural and biological
diversity, topography and landscape
Daytime
No
Car, train (Veliko Turnovo station approx. 3 km), local bus service
P
Yes
Limited
Silence, commemorative spirit
-
Veliko Turnovo
28
Park Nicola Gabrovski
Veliko Turnovo
bul. Nikola Gabrovski, Veliko Turnovo
+359 62 622 148 (Tourist information Veliko Turnovo)
http://www.velikoturnovo.info/en/index/
08
i
Park
Meeting point for local population, recreation spot
24 hours
No
Car, train (Veliko Turnovo station approx. 2 km), local bus service
In the surrounding
P
Limited
Open and welcoming
-
Veliko Turnovo
29
09
Park and square
Lyaskovets
i
ul. Treti Mart, Center of Lyaskovets
Park, square
Massive monument, memorial site, terraced recreation platformes,
fountain, design mixture of fragile and massive elements
24 hours
No
Car
P
In the surrounding
Limited
Museum of Gardening close by, shops etc. in the surrounding
Welcoming and open
Museum of Gardening Lyaskovets
Lysakovets
30
Schivkov garden
Arbanasi
Southwest of Arbanasi
Hotel Arbanassi Palace
www.arbanassipalace.bg
+359 62630176
10
i
Private garden
Amplified and former representative garden area,
panoramic view over Veliko Turnovo
Limited to guests or admitted by reception
No
Car
In the surrounding
P
No
Wide, private, controlled
Village of Arbanasi
Arbanasi
31
11
Square Georgi Izmerliev
Gorna Oryahovitsa
i
ul. Tsar Osvoboditel, Center of Gorna Oryahovitsa
Square, promenade
Central point of the city, unique overall design and combination
of materials, water-installations and noteworthy pavement,
pedestrian friendly city center, representation function for
P
24 hours
No
Car, train (Gorna Oryahovitsa station approx. 2 km)
In the surrounding
Yes
Shops, restaurants, cafés etc.
Benches, lighting, monuments, litter bins, water installations,
Urban, lively (in the central area of the square), wide-spread
City center of Gorna Oryahovitsa
Gorna Oryahovitsa
32
The square Georgi Izmerliev is located in the city center of Gorna
Oryahovitsa. It is a wide square holding several functions. The
pavement consists of irregular plates. Colorful flower beds, a
rectangular fountain and seatings invite to linger. The square
has a high value for pedestrians - it is the core of the inner city
pedestrian area. Shopping possibilities, restaurants and cafés can
be found around the square. To the west of this main square there
is a long staircase (promenade), which leads to a monument. This
monument commemorates the citizens of Gorna who died during
fighting since the Bulgarian April Uprising in 1876. The memorial
was created in views towards the hill Kamaka with the monastery
St. Prophet Iliya. Residential buildings, the historical museum and
33
12
Kilifarevo Monastery garden
Kilifarevo
i
4 km southeast of Kilifarevo
+359 6114 2480
http://www.bulgariamonasteries.com/en/kilifarevo_monastery.html
Monastery courtyard, farmer garden
Garden tradition, passionate design and maintenance
Daytime (check before visiting)
No
Car
P
Yes
Limited
Chapel, tavern, possibility of accomodation
Benches, litter bins, water supply, toilet
Place of silence, private atmosphere, comfortable,
commemorative and religious spirit, charming
River Belitsa
Kilifarevo
34
The Kilifarevo Monastery lies on the banks of the Belitsa River,
southeast of the town of Kilifarevo and not far from Veliko Turnovo. The first monastery in Kilifarevo was founded in 1348. This
monastery was destroyed by the Turks.
In 1718, the second Kilifarevo Monastery was erected on its
present place, just above the old monastery. A part of the new
monastery was destroyed in the end of 18th century.
Kolyo Ficheto, an eminent Bulgarian master began the construction
of the church St. Dimitar in 1840. Crop plants such as old vines
and fruit trees as well as the keeping of chickens characterize the
open space of this monastery. With its secluded location and its
embedding into a forest you will find here a place of rest.
Regional flower decoration, a kitchen garden, wooden pergolastructures or historic findings placed in the garden are all part of
this noteworthy monastery garden.
35
13
Square of Liberty
Pavlikeni
i
Center of Pavlikeni
Square
Contemporary design, fountain and water-installation, use of colours
and materials, noteworthy plant design, part of pedestrian area
24 hours
No
Car, train (Pavlikeni station approx. 700 m)
P
Yes
Yes
Shops, restaurants, cafés etc. in the surrounding
Benches, lighting, litter bins, water-installations, fountains
Lively and diversified
City center of Pavlikeni
Pavlikeni
36
With EU-funds for development of rural areas the redesign of the
Square of Liberty was processed in 2010. The square is the center
of a pedestrian zone.
Increased planting areas divide the elongated rectangular ground
plan into individual areas. The focal point of this open space forms
a square-like area, which is adjacent to the House of Culture.
A fountain and a monument separate the open square area and the
intimate sitting areas.
The furniture was made by red benches and red cube seats.
Through this red seating furniture, by its colored floor covering and
the combination with the green of the plants, the square gets a fresh
vivid look.
37
14
Square Vazrazhdane
Pleven
i
pl. Vazrazhdane, Pleven
+359 (0) 64/824004 (Tourist information)
[email protected]
Square
Unique design and combination of materials, wide-dimensioned but
diversified area, water-installations, monuments, mausoleum garden,
central part of pedestrian area of Pleven
24 hours
No
Car, train (Pleven station approx. 1,5 km)
P
In the surrounding
Yes
Shops, kiosk, restaurants in the surrounding
Benches, lighting, sculptures, litter bins, water installation
Lively, wide
City center of Pleven, mausoleum garden, city park, pedestrian area
Pleven
38
The Square of Rebirth, Vazrazhdane, is the central square of Pleven. Pleven
is a city of about 115.000 inhabitants in the north of Bulgaria. Vazrazhdane is
a large, open and wide-dimensioned city square. Different colored coverings
give the square a distinctive look. Fountains and numerous monuments complement the site. It is surrounded by several official buildings from different
eras. The square is also spreading between these buildings, where it goes into
pedestrian zones or the city park.
A prominent focal point on the edge of the square is the St. George the
Conqueror Chapel-Mausoleum (Paraklis-mavzoley Sv. Georgi Pobedonosets),
which was built for the soldiers killed during the Battle of Pleven. It was built
between 1903 and 1907 in a Neo-Byzantine style. The mausoleum is surrounded by a garden. In the garden the same materials and elements are used as in
Skopelev-Park or in the museum garden Tsar Liberator Alexander II.
39
15
Skobelev Park
Pleven
i
+359 (0) 64/824004 (Tourist information)
[email protected]
http://panorama-pleven.com/
Park
Recreation area, memorial area (design concept includes relics
from the Russian-Turkish war), entrance platform to Panorama
building
24 hours
No
Car, train (Pleven station approx. 2,5 km)
P
Yes
Limited
Kiosk
Benches and tables, lighting, litter bins, promenade and paths through
the park
Quiet, loneliness, commemorative spirit
Panorama building, boulevard General Skobelev
Pleven
40
Historical significance got Pleven in 1877 during the RussoTurkish war, in which Bulgaria was liberated from the rule of the
Ottoman Empire. On the occasion of the 100th commemoration,
the Panorama building was built. Inside, the battle from Pleven is
imaged. The significant building is located southwest of the city
center on a hill called Skobelev-Park. The park was opened in 1907
on the former fortifications of Pleven. At this point thousands of
Russian and Romanian soldiers died during the Russo-Turkish
war - it is also called „Dead Valley“ (Martva dolina). The tombs
erected in the park as well as the ossuary are reminder of the
victims.
Several Russian cannons and other war relics were integrated as
elements in the park design, such as grenades being used as bed
enclosure. In Skobelev Park, brown river stones dominate as paths
covering. Tuff was used in the architectural elements.
In the park with its old trees an enchanted / partially overgrown,
silent retreat above the town (whose bloody history is barely
noticeable) can be experienced.
41
16
Boulevard General Skobelev
Pleven
i
ul. General Skobelev, Pleven
+359 (0) 64/824004 (Tourist information)
[email protected]
Square and promenade
Terraces, boulevard, massive sculptures, noteworthy overall
design concept, characteristic pavement
24 hours
No
Car, train (Pleven station approx. 2 km)
P
In the surrounding
Limited
Kiosk, café etc. in the surrounding
Benches, lighting, litter bins, sculptures, monuments
Wideness, loneliness, view to the far horizon and over Pleven
Art Gallery Iliya Beshkov, Skobelev Park, Panorama building, Pleven
city park, Square Vazrazhdane
Pleven
42
Leaving the Skobelev Park down the hill towards the city you reach a huge
staircase, which releases the view of Pleven. Known as the Boulevard
General Skobelev the staircase leads to the Municipal Art Gallery Iliya
Beshkov, which was built in 1978. In front of the building there is a
monumental bronze sculpture of the General sitting on a horse. The area
was probably (like the Panorama-building in Skobelev Park) built to
commemorate the 100-year-old liberation from the Turkish rule in Bulgaria.
The adjacent residential buildings date from the same periode and combine
well with the stairs. The interaction of white-gray marble and red-brown
brick / terracotta gives the paving of the stairs and ramps a very impressive
appearance. An overall artificial terrace landscape is the result of the
combination of the wide staircase, ramps and vegetation areas in between.
Juniper species „flow“ on the outer edges of stairs and breaks up the strict
architecture.
On the top of the terrace-landscape there stands a large statue consisting of
two parts. The impressive sculptures are a symbol for a figure breaking free
from a tree. This reminds of the two liberations of Bulgaria by the Russian
military: during the Russo-Turkish War and during the Second World War.
Boulevard General Skobelev
43
17
City park
Pleven
i
ul. Vardar, Pleven
+359 (0) 64/824004 (Tourist information)
[email protected]
Park
Meeting point and recreation site, fair, monuments and sculptures,
fountain, historic pavillon and elements
24 hours
No
Car, train (Pleven station approx. 1,5 km )
P
In the surrounding
Yes
Lively, vibrant, open and welcoming, nostalgic
City center of Pleven, Square Vazrazhdane,
Boulevard General Skobelev
Pleven
44
Boulevard Wasil Lewski
Pleven
ul. Wasil Lewski, pl. Svobodata, Pleven
18
i
Promenade
Boulevard and pedestrian zone, water installations, overall design
concept including pavement (fitting to Vazrazhdane)
24 hours
No
Car, train (Pleven station approx. 1 km)
In the surrounding
P
Yes
Urban, lively
City center of Pleven, Square of Rebirth Vazrazhdane,
Museum garden Tsar Liberator Alexander II
Pleven
45
19
Museum garden
Tsar Liberator Alexander II
Pleven
i
ul. Wasil Lewski, Pleven
+359 64834 558
Museum garden
Monument, memorial site, garden-design with recogniceable
equipment (representing war relics, other use of materials)
Daytime
No
Car, train (Pleven station approx. 1 km)
P
In the surrounding
Limited
Introverted and quiet (surrounded by lively pedestrian area)
City center of Pleven, Boulevard Wasil Lewski,
Square Vazrazhdane
Pleven
46
Square Ekzarh Yosif I
Lovech
pl. Ekzarh Yosif I, Lovech
20
i
Square
City square, part of inner city pedestrian area, comprehensive
design concept including a well-fitting colour-concept
24 hours
No
Car, train (Lovech station approx. 1 km)
In the surrounding
P
Yes
Urban, wide
City center of Lovech, Mostova Bridge, Krepost Hisarya hill
Lovech
47
21
Pedestrian bridges including
Mostova Bridge
Lovech
i
ul. Mostova, ul. Vasil Levski, pl. Ekzarh Yosif I, Lovech
Promenade, transport and infrastructural open space
Wide-dimensioned pedestrian bridge, roofed historic pedestrian bridge
24 hours
No
Car, Train (Lovech station approx. 1,5 km)
P
In the surrounding
Limited
Urban
Center of Lovech, Square Ekzarh Yosif I, Square Kirkov,
Krepost Hisarya hill
Lovech
48
Square Todor Kirkov
Lovech
pl. Todor Kirkov, Lovech
22
i
Square
Local square with adjacent promenade, characteristic pavement,
part of pedestrian area, monument, combination of historic and
contemporary materials
24 hours
No
Car, train (Lovech Station approx. 1,5 km)
In the surrounding
P
Yes
Urban, lively
City center of Lovech, Krepost Hisarya hill,
Square Ekzarh Yosif I, Mostova Bridge
Lovech
49
23
Square Vazrazhdane
Gabrovo
i
pl. Vazrazhdane, bul. Wasil Aprilov, Gabrovo
http://www.gabrovo.bg/en/page/99 (Tourist information)
Square
Wide central square, sculptures, fountain
24 hours
No
Car, train (Gabrovo station approx. 1,5 km), local bus service
P
Yes
Yes
House of Culture, shops, cafés in the surrounding
Fountain, lighting, litter bins
Lively, open and wide-spread
City center of Gabrovo, municipality building, House of
Culture, city park
Gabrovo
50
The Square Vazrazhdane (Square of Rebirth) is located in the
center of Gabrovo. It is an open square which is bounded by some
prominent buildings: the House of Culture in the west, which
was built from 1959 to 1964 in a neo-classical style as well as the
municipality building from the year 1970. To the north there is
a courthouse. The square has a direct connection to a pedestrian
promenade and the city park is also located close by and directly
reachable.
The terrace of the increased located culture house offers a view of
the square and its quadratic patterned floor covering. A generous
staircase leads from the House of Culture to a multipart fountain,
which limits the open space to the south. Large characteristic
laterns and monuments are also part of the site.
Square Vazrazhdane
51
24
Park in ul. General Radetski
Gabrovo
i
ul. General Radetski, Gabrovo
http://www.gabrovo.bg/en/page/99 (Tourist information)
Park
Highly visited local park, various equipment, design-concept
according to time of origin
24 hours
No
Car, train (Gabrovo station approx. 2 km)
P
In the surrounding
Yes
Charming, lively
City center of Gabrovo
Gabrovo
52
Park in bul. Wasil Aprilov
Gabrovo
bul. Wasil Aprilov, Gabrovo
http://www.gabrovo.bg/en/page/99 (Tourist information)
25
i
Park
Meeting place for local population,
authentical park of everyday-life
24 hours
No
Car, train (Gabrovo station approx. 1,5 km), local bus service
In the surrounding
P
Yes
Central but quiet
City center of Gabrovo, Square Vazrazhdane
Gabrovo
53
26
Promenade General Radetski
Gabrovo
i
ul. General Radetski, Gabrovo
http://www.gabrovo.bg/en/page/99 (Tourist information)
Promenade
Pedestrian zone, part of dense network of open spaces
24 hours
No
Car, train (Gabrovo station approx. 2 km), various bus connections
P
In the surrounding
Yes
Urban, lively
City center of Gabrovo, park in ul. General Radetski
Gabrovo
54
Memorial Shipka Pass
Shipchenski, Road E85 / 5
27
i
Memorial
Memorial site, wide platform with 360° panoramic view,
design concept including war relics, massive staircases
and sculptures, museum
24 hours
No
Car
In the surrounding
P
Limited
Single appearence in a wide mountainous landscape
Buzludja area
Shipka
55
28
Buzludja area
i
Road 5005, 8km East from Shipka Pass
http://www.buzludzha.com/
Memorial, square
Memorial site, winding path from bottom to top of the mountain, 360°
panoramic view, impressive architecture, illustration of landscape
through design, visible design relics from communistic era
24 hours (access to building is not permitted)
No
Car
P
Yes
Limited
Silence, unreal, impressive, mountainous
Shipka Pass
Buzludzha
56
North of the town of Kazanlak and near Shipka Pass there is the Buzludja area
on a peak of the Balkan Mountains. Visible from far an UFO-shaped building is
the focal point. It was founded in 1981 on the occasion of the 1300th anniversary
of the Bulgarian state and in honor of the 90th anniversary of the BuzludjaCongress (which the foundation of the Bulgarian Communist party held on this
site). The monumental building was designed by architect Georgi Stoilov.
For the construction the department for Civil Engineering Construction of the
Bulgarian army was responsible. It was built with the aid of a high number of
volunteers. Many famous Bulgarian painters and sculptors participated in the
interior decoration of the monument. The building is surrounded by a manifold
designed open space with many different zones.
Starting from the parking place a few hundred meters below the top of the mountain a terraced platform with a massive monument depicting two hands carrying
torches welcomes you. A flagstone path leads to the actual Buzludja building /
monument on the top of the mountain. In front of the monument there is a widedimensioned square of natural stone pavement - formerly built as a meeting
place. The stone pavement is arranged in individual pie wedges. The intermediate-growing cushion plants give the concrete building a „lovely“ counterweight,
especially in the period of high summer when most plants bloom. Since the
collapse of the socialist regime, the condition of the monument-building and the
adjacent open spaces are getting worse.
Buzludja area
57
29
Park Tyulbeto
Kazanlak
i
ul. General Radetski, Kazanlak
http://bulgariatravel.org/de/object/42/kazanlyk (Information)
Park
Recreation area with historic spirit, archaeological site (Thracian tomb
visible in the park), winding paths and resting-terraces with panoramic
view over Kazanlak
24 hours
No
Car, train (Kazanlak station approx. 800 m)
P
Yes
Limited
Thracian tomb
Benches, litter bins, lighting, monument
Silence
-
Kazanlak
58
The several hectars large Tyulbeto park is located in the northeast of Kazanlak. It is known by the fact that a Thracian tomb from the IV-III century BC
is located in the park. The grave is part of a large Thracian necropolis, known
as the Valley of the Kings. It is on the UNESCO World Heritage list since
1979. It is a work of art that is best obtained from the time of the Thracians in
Bulgaria. The grave was discovered by chance in 1944. It was built of brick
and is not open to visitors. However, there is a copy in the park on a 1:1 scale,
which can be visited. Another popular place within the park is the grave of
the composer Emmanuel Manolov. He composed the first Bulgarian opera
Siromahkinia. The moving area, on which the park was built, was intercepted
with stairs and walls. In front of the grave are terraced platforms. From here
you have a good view of the city Kazanlak. Characteristic for the planting are
juniper plants and larger pine stands. The fact that the park is situated on the
outskirts, it merges into the neighbouring landscape.
Park Tyulbeto
59
19
30
City square Sevtopolis
Kazanlak
i
pl. Sevtopolis, Kazanlak
http://bulgariatravel.org/de/object/42/kazanlyk (Information)
Square
Multifunctional city square, water basin, open wide area, starting point
of pedestrian area
24 hours
No
Car, train (Kazanlak station approx. 500 m)
P
In the surrounding
Yes
Urban
City center of Kazanlak, city park, pedestrian zone, shopping street
Kazanlak
60
City Park
Kazanlak
ul. Iskra, Kazanlak
http://bulgariatravel.org/de/object/42/kazanlyk
31
i
Park
Rose-theme scultptures, recreation park in the city center,
meeting point for local population
24 hours
No
Car, train (Kazanlak station approx. 0,8 km)
In the surrounding
P
Yes
Urban, relaxed
City center of Kazanlak, city square Sevtopolis, pedestrian area
Kazanlak
61
List of open spaces
62
01
02
03
04
05
06
07
08
09
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
63
Sources
Paasi, A. (1991): Deconstructing Regions: Notes on the Sacles of Spatial
Life. Environment and planning. In: Raagma, G. (2002) Regional identity in
regional development and planning. In: European Planning Studies. 55-76.
Carfax Publishing.
Institute of Landscape Architecture, Department of Landscape, Spatial and
Infrastructure Sciences, University of Natural resources and Life Sciences
Vienna: Local Survey – Fact Book “Boruna - Park”. Vienna 2013
All photographs by Anja Seliger, Pixie Jacobs, Jürgen Furchtlehner
Schindegger, F. (1999): Raum. Planung: Politik. Handbuch zur Raumplanung
in Österreich. Herausgegeben vom österreichischen Institut für Raumplanung.
Böhlau Verlag. Wien Köln Weimar.
Roth, K., Brunnbauer U. (Hrsg.) (2009): Region, Regional Identity and
Regionalism in Southeastern Europe: Part 1. Ethnologia Balkanica. LIT Verlag
Dr. W. Hopf. Berlin.
Raagma, G. (2002): Regional identity in regional development and planning.
In: European Planning Studies. 1-20. Carfax Publishing.
Meesly, L. Dessein, J. Lauwers, L. (no date): Regional Identity in rural Development: Three case studies of regional branding. Ghent University. Social
Science Unit. Belgium. 19-24.
Paasi, A. (1986): The Institutionalization of Regions: a Theoretical Framework
for the Understanding of the Emergence of Regions and the Constitutions
of Regional Identity. Fennia 164. 105-146. In: Raagma, G. (2002): Regional
identity in regional development and planning. In: European Planning Studies.
55-76. Carfax Publishing.
Pellitero A. M. (2011): The phenomenological experience of the visual landscape. Research in Urbanism Series. 57-71.
http://panorama-pleven.com/index.php?option=content&task=view&id=16
http://panorama-pleven.com/index.php?option=content&task=view&id=14
http://www.velikoturnovo.info/en/index/
http://tourinfo.pleven.bg/index.php/en/култура-и-изкуство/24-art-gallery-“iliabeshkov”.html
http://www.nasamnatam.com/patepis/Pleven-469.html
http://veliko-tarnovo.net/razvlechenia/sport/dks-vasil-levski.html
http://www.bulgariamonasteries.com/en/kilifarevo_monastery.html
http://bulgariatravel.org/en/object/294/pleven_grad
http://www.presstv.bg/index.php?option=com_portal&view=sights&id=348
http://www.gabrovo.bg/en/article/366
http://citybuild.bg/news/remontirat-administrativnata/18774
http://www.buzludzha.com/history
http://wissen.de.msn.com/history/ufo-aus-dem-kalten-krieg-das-monument-von-busludscha
64
65