Landmarks
Monument of Valchan Voyvoda
In the village of Rayuvtsi, above the Yovkovtsi dam is the first and only monument to the legendary Voivode Valchan. Legends about the bravery of his troops and the countless riches that were plundered by the enslavers and given away for the freedom and education of the Bulgarians are still told today. And there is hardly a more appropriate place for the erection of this monument – everywhere the eye can see only forests, mountains, water and blue sky. In his honour, in 2015, the only monument in the country was erected in the area of Valchova Polyana above the village. The Haidouk raises in full jeight, standing proudly on high, rifle in hand, standing on three chests of treasure, gazing into the vast expanse. On the memorial plaque below you will learn more about his life and activities, and the memorial complex has also been arranged for foreigners to learn about our history.
The Clock Tower
It is considered the symbol of the town. Built in the early 19th century, it remains a favorite place for the residents of the Balkan town. The pride of the locals is genuine and fully deserved, as the tower shows the spirit and hard work that underlies the proud people of the Balkan. The imposing appearance of the building, which is visible from the whole town, as well as the crystal sound of a bell, audible even in the remotest neighbourhood, create that exceptional atmosphere sought by every tourist.
Daskalolivnitsa
Within this preserved from the 19th century place there are the churches of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary and St. Nikola, the Elena Class School (Daskalolivnitsa), both Guneva and Zlateva houses, the Kamburov inn. The Daskalolivnitsa is in an exposition of school supplies related to the class school, especially in the middle of 19th century.
Popnikolov House and the Museum of Paleontology
Built in the beginning of the 19th century, this architectural and historical monument of culture impresses with its unadulterated charm and spirit of Renaissance Elena. It is typical that the house is stylistically consistent with the period of its construction and in fact each upper floor is projecting as much as possible in relation to the one below, thus making the house a model of style. After its renovation, it houses the Museum of Paleontology at the University of Sofia. Specimens of fossils are part of a rare exhibition for our latitudes.
House Museum of Hilarion Makariopolski
A place imbued with the spirit of Bulgarianness is the house museum of Hilarion Makariopolski. The home of the Bulgarian Renaissance fighter for ecclesiastical independence has been restored and provides a glimpse into the life and work of its owner, touching us with his personal belongings and the opportunity to return to the days of the Bulgarian Revival.
Yovkovtsi Dam
Named after the village which was destroyed to be build, it is one of the largest dams in Bulgaria. It offers the opportunity to fish for various species of fish, go boating and countless recreational areas offering amazing views.
“St. Nikola” Church
Right next to the Daskalolivnitsa is the oldest church in the town – “St. Nikola”. It used to store many valuable books on parchment, which were burned when the church was burnt down in 1800. The church was rebuilt in 1804 with the help of wealthier citizens.
Kapinovski Monastery
The medieval monastery was probably erected in the late 13th century. It is located near the present-day village of Kapinovo. It has shared the fate of all monasteries here – it has been repeatedly demolished and rebuilt. During the Bulgarian Renaissance it was the centre of Bulgarian culture. The abbot here was Sofroniy Vrachanski, and Vasil Levski and Filip Totyu visited the monastery many times.
Hristovski waterfall
Hristovski waterfall is located in the area of the town of Elena. An asphalt road leads close to it and then a short and easy forest path.
Rayuv and Markov Kamak and Eco-trail
The Markov – Rayuv Kamak eco-trail starts 3 km from the town of Elena and continues in the direction of the Elena – Tvarditsa pass.
