Park St. Vrach: Sandanski's Green Heart

Park St. Vrach, named after the old name of Sandanski, is a sprawling urban park covering 344 hectares on both sides of the Sandanska Bistritsa River. Established in 1981, it stands as a unique landscape monument, celebrated for its diverse flora and recreational opportunities. The park's history began in 1916 with the planting of pine seedlings, followed by cedar and sophora seedlings from Italy in 1919. The park boasts over 160 plant species, including rare and exotic varieties. Visitors can admire ancient plane trees, as well as plants from the Far East, America, and the Mediterranean, such as eucomia, sakura, ginkgo, and sequoia. Evergreen shrubs surround the ponds and rocky corners of the park, enhancing its natural beauty. The Sandanska Bistritsa River flows through the park, crossed by suspension bridges, adding to the scenic charm. Within the park, you'll find a stadium, a summer theater, and an outdoor pool. There's also an artificial lake inhabited by ducks and swans, fountains, and architectural features. The park provides various opportunities for recreation and entertainment, including playgrounds and wooden gazebos. Cultural events and festivals, like Pirin Folk and Youth of the Balkans, are often held here. A concrete map of Northern Pirin, created by mountaineer Nicolas Mironski, can be found at the main entrance.