Gabrovo: The Heart of Humor and Tradition in Bulgaria

• HelloЗдравей
  [Zdravey]
• GoodbyeДовиждане
  [Dovizhdane]
• YesДа
  [Da]
• NoНе
  [Ne]
• Please/You're welcomeМоля
  [Molya]
• Thank youБлагодаря
  [Blagodarya]
• Excuse me/SorryИзвинявай
  [Izvinyavay]
• How are you?Как си?
  [Kak si?]
• Fine. And you?Добре. А ти?
  [Dobre. A ti?]
• Do you speak English?Говорите ли английски?
  [Govorite li angliyski?]
• I don't understandНе разбирам
  [Ne razbiram]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseБих искал да видя менюто, моля
  [Bih iskal da vida menuto, molya]
• I don't eat meatНе ям месо
  [Ne yam meso]
• Cheers!На здраве!
  [Na zdrave!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseБих искал да платя, моля
  [Bih iskal da platya, molya]

• Help!Помощ!
  [Pomosht!]
• Go away!Изчезвай!
  [Izchezvay!]
• Call the Police!Обадете полицията!
  [Obadete politsiyata!]
• Call a doctor!Обадете лекар!
  [Obadete lekar!]
• I'm lostЗагубил съм се
  [Zagubil sаm se]
• I'm illБолен съм
  [Bolen sаm]

• I'd like to buy...Бих искал да купя...
  [Bih iskal da kupya...]
• I'm just lookingСамо гледам
  [Samo gledam]
• How much is it?Колко струва?
  [Kolko struva?]
• That's too expensiveТова е твърде скъпо
  [Tova e tvurde skapо]
• Can you lower the price?Можете ли да понижите цената?
  [Mozhete li da ponizhite tsenata?]

• What time is it?Колко е часът?
  [Kolko e chasat?]
• It's one o'clockЕдин час
  [Edin chas]
• Half past (10)Половина след (10)
  [Polovina sled (10)]
• MorningСутрин
  [Sutrin]
• AfternoonСледобед
  [Sledobed]
• EveningВечер
  [Vecher]
• YesterdayВчера
  [Vchera]
• TodayДнес
  [Dnes]
• TomorrowУтре
  [Utre]
• 1едно
  [edno]
• 2две
  [dve]
• 3три
  [tri]
• 4четири
  [chetiri]
• 5пет
  [pet]
• 6шест
  [shest]
• 7седем
  [sedem]
• 8осем
  [osem]
• 9девет
  [devet]
• 10десет
  [deset]

• Where's a/the...?Къде е...
  [Kade e...]
• What's the address?Какъв е адресът?
  [Kakav e adresat?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Можете ли да ми покажете (на картата)?
  [Mozhete li da mi pokazhete (na kartata)?]
• When's the next (bus)?Кога е следващият (автобус)?
  [Koga e sledvashtiyat (avtobus)?]
• A ticket (to ....)Билет (до ...)
  [Bilet (do ...)]

Gabrovo's origins trace back to the 12th century during the Second Bulgarian Empire. It was founded on the banks of the Yantra River and quickly developed due to its strategic location on important trade routes. The town's name is believed to be derived from the Bulgarian word 'gaber,' meaning 'hornbeam tree,' which were abundant in the area.

During the Ottoman rule from the 14th to the 19th century, Gabrovo grew into a significant economic center. The town was known for its craftsmanship, particularly in the fields of woodworking, metallurgy, and textile production. Gabrovo's artisans gained a reputation for their high-quality products, which were traded throughout the Ottoman Empire.

In the 19th century, Gabrovo became a focal point of the Bulgarian National Revival. The town was home to the first secular school in Bulgaria, the Aprilov National High School, established in 1835 by Vasil Aprilov. This period saw a flourishing of Bulgarian culture and education, with Gabrovo playing a central role in the awakening of national consciousness.

Following the Russo-Turkish War of 1877-1878, Gabrovo was liberated from Ottoman rule and became part of the newly established Principality of Bulgaria. The town continued to thrive economically and culturally, with numerous industrial enterprises being established. Gabrovo earned the nickname 'The Bulgarian Manchester' due to its rapid industrial growth, particularly in the textile industry.

Gabrovo, like the rest of Bulgaria, was significantly affected by the two World Wars. During the socialist era (1946-1989), the town experienced substantial industrialization and urbanization. The government invested heavily in the development of manufacturing and infrastructure, further solidifying Gabrovo's industrial base. Cultural institutions such as theaters, museums, and galleries were also established during this period.

After the fall of the communist regime in 1989, Gabrovo, like much of Bulgaria, faced economic challenges as it transitioned to a market economy. Despite these challenges, the town has preserved its rich cultural heritage and continues to be a center of education and industry. Modern Gabrovo is known for its blend of historical charm and contemporary vibrancy, attracting visitors with its unique cultural and historical landmarks, such as the House of Humour and Satire and the Etar Architectural-Ethnographic Complex.

Gabrovo is located in central Bulgaria. The nearest international airport is Sofia Airport, approximately 200 kilometers away. From Sofia, you can take a bus or train to Gabrovo. The journey typically takes around 3 to 4 hours by road. Alternatively, you can rent a car and drive, which allows for more flexibility and the opportunity to explore the scenic countryside along the way.

Gabrovo is a compact city, and many attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips, taxis are readily available and relatively inexpensive. Local buses operate within the city and connect to nearby towns and villages. Renting a car is also an option for those who wish to explore the surrounding areas at their own pace. Bicycle rentals are available and offer an eco-friendly way to see the city.

The official currency in Bulgaria is the Bulgarian Lev (BGN). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops in Gabrovo. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are available throughout the city, making it convenient to withdraw cash as needed.

Gabrovo is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always a good practice.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Gabrovo. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies in the city can provide over-the-counter medications for minor health issues.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your head when entering churches and monasteries. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A friendly nod or smile is also appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it may be considered impolite.

To experience Gabrovo like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Bulgarian goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city's history and culture. Don’t miss visiting the House of Humor and Satire, which is a unique museum dedicated to humor. For a serene experience, take a walk in the Etar Architectural-Ethnographic Complex, which showcases traditional Bulgarian crafts and architecture.