Immerse yourself in the depths of history and culture by visiting the "Iskra" Historical Museum in the heart of Kazanlak – the city of roses and the Valley of the Thracian Kings. Founded in the distant year 1901, this museum is one of the oldest and richest in Bulgaria, safeguarding invaluable treasures that recount the millennia-old history of the region. The "Iskra" Museum impresses with its extensive exhibitions, tracing the development of the Kazanlak Valley from prehistory to the present day. A central place is occupied by the archaeological department, where you will discover unique artifacts from Thracian necropolises and sanctuaries, including finds from the world-renowned Kazanlak Tomb, Ostrusha Mound, and Golyama Kosmatka. You will be captivated by exquisite gold and silver jewelry, ritual vessels, weapons, and objects related to the life and burial customs of Thracian rulers, such as those of Seuthes III. The ethnographic exhibition transports you into the daily life and culture of the local population during the Bulgarian National Revival and early 20th century. Explore traditional costumes, craft tools, and everyday objects that vividly illustrate the spirit of a region famous for its rose oil production and the Rose Festival. The "New and Latest History" department completes the picture with documents and artifacts related to the struggles for national liberation and the development of Kazanlak in the 20th century. A visit to the "Iskra" Historical Museum is an unforgettable journey through time, offering a profound insight into one of Europe's most intriguing civilizations – that of the Thracians – as well as rich Bulgarian culture. It is a must-see stop for anyone wishing to feel the pulse of history in the heart of the Valley of Roses.
