Village of Momchilovtsi

The village of Momchilovtsi is one of the most beautiful and historically significant places in the Rhodope Mountains? Nestled in the heart of Bulgaria’s greenest and most picturesque mountain range, it lies at an altitude of 1,200 meters. Located just 20 kilometers northeast of the town of Smolyan and 19 kilometers from the world-famous ski resort Pamporovo, the village captivates visitors with its rich history and unique atmosphere.

In 1934, the village, previously known as Drekyoy, was renamed Momchilovtsi in honor of Momchil the Brave—a defender of the local population during the Ottoman rule. Around the village, many archaeological artifacts have been discovered, including tools, jewelry, and items from the Thracian, Roman, and Slavic periods, proving that life here has been continuous since the Bronze Age.

Momchilovtsi has preserved its culture, ancient customs, folklore, and crafts, establishing itself as a notable ethnographic center. One of its remarkable features is a sacred spring with healing water located on the western edge of the village. For more than a century, this spring has been a place of healing and faith. According to legend, a childless couple found hope and cure through the water, and people from all over the country come here seeking healing and protection.

Besides its spiritual significance, Momchilovtsi impresses with its pristine nature, fresh air, and an unusually large number of chapels—about 30—which surround the village like a “ring of fire.” In the village center stands an ancient Orthodox church dedicated to Saints Constantine and Helena, built in 1836 and declared a cultural and historical monument.