Shipka

Shipka is a mountain summit in the Balkan range reaching 1329 meters in elevation with expansive views across northern and southern Bulgaria. A monumental structure crowns the peak with interior levels that display historical artifacts and burial chambers.

The summit became strategically important during the Russo-Turkish War of 1877-1878 when Russian and Bulgarian troops fought Ottoman forces there. This conflict led to the construction of a memorial honoring those who defended the position.

The Monument of Freedom honors fallen soldiers with a marble burial chamber and displays military objects in its interior spaces. Visitors come to this site as a place of remembrance for the shared struggle between Russian and Bulgarian forces.

The climb to the summit involves a hiking trail of around 15 kilometers with an elevation gain of about 720 meters, typically starting from Gabrovo. Visitors should bring sturdy hiking shoes and plenty of water, as the route is steep and demanding.

The monument is crowned with an oversized bronze lion sculpture measuring 8 meters in length and 4 meters in height at its entrance. This imposing figure has long served as a symbol of Bulgarian resistance and the struggle for independence.