The Pazardzhik province is the premier wellness destination of the Balkans where hot mineral water flows freely from the earth. It is famous for the city of **Velingrad** which sits in a high mountain valley surrounded by thick pine forests. You can park your car and soak in thermal pools that have been used for healing since ancient times. The steam rises against the green hills creating a relaxing scene that is perfect for a mid-trip break. It is the best place to recharge your body before heading deeper into the mountains. Drive up into the high **Rhodope** range to find the quiet waters of the Batak reservoir. This massive lake is surrounded by soft green meadows and is a favorite spot for camping and fishing. You can drive along the shore to find a quiet place for a picnic or a short hike in the fresh alpine air. The road offers wide views of the blue water reflecting the tall trees. It feels like a hidden mountain retreat far away from the busy highways of the lowlands. The journey continues to the historic town of **Panagyurishte** where a massive gold treasure was found in the mud. You can see replicas of these nine gold vessels that belonged to an ancient Thracian king in the local museum. The town is also a symbol of the fight for freedom and features a giant stone monument on a hill overlooking the streets. You can walk up the wide steps to see the entire valley spread out below you. This province blends the luxury of spa waters with the grit of national history.

Pazardzhik (province) highlights

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The Scenic Route

The Heritage Drive

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History of Pazardzhik (province)

Pazardzhik is the home of the **Panagyurishte Gold Treasure**. Discovered in 1949, this 6 kilogram hoard of pure gold consists of nine vessels shaped like gods and animals, representing the pinnacle of Thracian craftsmanship from the 4th century BC. This province was the heartland of the **Odrysian Kingdom**, the most powerful Thracian state, which controlled the trade routes through the fertile Maritsa valley. The province played a tragic and heroic role in the **April Uprising of 1876**. The town of **Panagyurishte** was the rebellion capital, where the famous **Silk Flag** was sewn. The brutal suppression of the revolt here most notably in **Batak**, where thousands sought refuge in the stone church sparked international outrage that eventually led to the liberation of Bulgaria. The **Batak Ossuary** remains a somber site of national mourning. For the modern traveler, the province offers the **Velingrad Spa**, the **Mineral Water Capital of the Balkans**, with over 80 springs. The high altitude **Belmeken Dam** and the **Batak Reservoir** offer stunning alpine scenery, while the **Tsepina Fortress** provides ruins with views of the Rhodopes. From the gold of kings to the blood of revolutionaries and the healing power of the water, Pazardzhik is a province of intense extremes.

Pazardzhik (province)