Samokov: Hotels and accommodations

Samokov is located in the Rila Mountains and Rila National Park. This location offers opportunities for hiking, trekking, and mountaineering. The Samokov Municipality publishes timetables for bus services between villages, intercity services between towns and cities, and two municipal bus routes.

You can find a hotel for your stay in Samokov.

Geographical setting

The combination of the town, the mountains, and the national park forms Samokov’s geographical setting. Hiking, trekking, and mountaineering are among the activities associated with its location in the Rila Mountains and Rila National Park.

Culture and history

Samokov is associated with an important Bulgarian art school from the period of the National Revival. Its circle included painters, icon painters, engravers, and woodcarvers who created works for churches and monasteries. Goldsmithing and clockmaking are also part of the city’s craft heritage.

Samokov’s development was linked to large mechanical hammers called samokovi, which were used in iron production. Iron processing and livestock farming also contributed to a diverse craft tradition that included more than 300 wheels for producing woven articles and 40 aba workshops.

Religious heritage

Belyova Church is the oldest Christian church in Samokov. It stands on the foundations of a late antique basilica dating from the 4th to the 6th century. Its murals and icons were created by Nikola Obrazopisov and his assistants; the iconostasis was made by Samokov woodcarvers.

The Shroud of Holy Mary Nunnery was founded in 1772 by Fota of Samokov, who donated her own house for this purpose. The nunnery church was built between 1837 and 1839. In the 19th century, the Shroud of Holy Mary Nunnery developed extensive educational activities.

The church contains icons attributed to Dimitar Zograf, as well as a mural on the wall of the narthex that is probably the work of Zahari Zograf.

Museum and sports

The Historical Museum in Samokov was founded in 1936 through the efforts of local artists. It organizes temporary exhibitions and other specialist events.

Samokov has a mountain bike park. The city also has a multifunctional sports hall with facilities for practicing 25 sports.

For further destination options, you can also visit Raduil.

For the higher-level travel overview: Sofia Province / Sofia.