Located 10 km from Vratsa and 110 km from Sofia, Chelopek is Bulgaria’s pioneering Book Town. Since joining the IOB in 2019, this picturesque mountain village has been transformed by Knigini Association into a vibrant literary hub. By repurposing old buildings into the innovative Knigini Center and a mission bookstore, Chelopek blends tradition with new technologies. One of its most enchanting feature is the “Living Library”—unique literary boards adorning local homes that allow visitors to literally walk through the pages of world classics. It is a place where heritage and hospitality meet to ignite a lifelong passion for reading.

At the heart of Chelopek is the Knigini Center, a sanctuary for book heritage featuring rare antiquarian finds and international titles spanning centuries. More than just a bookshop, it hosts IOB exhibitions, art and fairytale installations, and cutting-edge VR journeys. Discover Izvor, the first mission bookstore in a Bulgarian village, which works in harmony with our historic “Ognishte – 1930” chitalishte to pulse life into the community. Experience a unique fusion of history and inspiration!

Immerse in “Destination Vratsa” – a breathtaking 360° VR journey over majestic cliffs and paragliding peaks, as well as innovative, immersive and youth-oriented experiences. Then, savor authentic local recipes in a serene atmosphere. It’s the ultimate fusion of high-tech adventure and soul-warming Bulgarian tradition!

Enjoy year-round literary tours and creative workshops. Experience authentic folklore through seasonal rituals like Koledari, Brashlenkyo, Enyovden or join our bustling autumn festival season, featuring Chelopek Book Festival, young writers’ residences and the Vratsa Book Town Festival. Literature and heritage come alive here!

Beyond the books, Chelopek is steeped in legend. It is the home of Baba Iliytsa – the iconic heroine of the “Patriarch of Bulgarian Literature” Ivan Vazov, featured in one of his emblematic works; her house museum is a cultural gem. Nature enthusiasts can admire a 230-year-old oak overlooking the dramatic Iskar Gorge or hike the historic Botev path to Okolchitsa Peak. This summit offers vistas reaching the Danube and marks where poet-hero Hristo Botev fell. Nearby, the 14th-century Cherepish Monastery offers ancient spiritual serenity. Chelopek is the perfect gateway to the breathtaking Vratsa Balkan.

Chelopek was once Bulgaria’s “Donkey Capital”, home to a record-breaking 200 donkeys! Today, our 20 remaining long-eared residents are local celebrities. They’ve traded farm work for fame, occasionally appearing as star guests at village festivals to delight visitors. A truly stubborn – and charming – piece of our history!

Chelopek is a land of legends, famously inspiring Ivan Vazov, the “Patriarch of Bulgarian Literature.” In 1899, a local story of immense courage led him to write his masterpiece, “One Bulgarian Woman,” centered on the heroic Baba Iliytsa. Vazov also immortalized the nearby Pogledets cliff, calling it a “natural altar” in his poetry. The trail ascends toward Okolchitsa Peak, forever linking these dramatic landscapes with Bulgaria’s literary soul.

Fly into Sofia Airport, then take a 90-minute drive or scenic train ride to Vratsa. From Vratsa, Chelopek is just 15 minutes away by bus, taxi, or car. Join us for inspiration, fresh mountain air, and a rich cultural heritage in Bulgaria’s first book village!

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