Alyosha Monument

Welcome to Plovdiv, the second-largest city in Bulgaria and one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in all of Europe. You are standing at the base of Bunardzhik Hill, one of the famous syenite hills that define the…

As we begin our climb up Bunardzhik Hill, the sounds of the bustling city traffic below quickly fade away, replaced by the tranquil atmosphere of a dense, shaded forest. The paved path winds its way up the slope in a series of…

Breaking through the tree line near the top of the hill, we emerge into a wide, open plaza that serves as the immediate approach to the monument. Before we reach the base of the statue itself, take a look at the architectural…

We now stand directly at the base of the Alyosha Monument. Prepare to strain your neck as you look straight up at this staggering piece of Soviet-era engineering. …

Turn your back to the monument and step toward the edge of the viewing platform. This is the true reward for your strenuous hike. …

As our time at the summit comes to an end, take one last, sweeping look at the city of Plovdiv laid out beneath you, and cast a final glance up at the towering concrete face of Alyosha. The juxtaposition here is profound. …