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Gabrovo Clock Tower: A Symbol of Revival

A historic landmark in Gabrovo, the Clock Tower stands as a symbol of the Bulgarian National Revival and the town's rich cultural heritage.

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The Gabrovo Clock Tower, erected in 1835, stands as a prominent symbol of the Bulgarian National Revival. Rising 27.70 meters high, it once served as a crucial timekeeping device for the town's bustling craftspeople and merchants.

A brief summary to Clock Tower

  • ul. 1-vi May 6, Gabrovo, Габрово Център, 5300, BG

Local tips

  • Visit the Clock Tower during the day to appreciate its architecture and historical details.
  • Explore the surrounding area, including the May 1st 1876 Square, to experience the heart of Gabrovo.
  • Check out other nearby landmarks such as the Igoto Bridge and the Racho Kovacha monument.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Clock Tower is located in the center of Gabrovo on 1-vi May street, making it easily accessible on foot from most central locations. From the Gabrovo Bus Station, head north on Stefan Karadzha St, turn left onto Petko Karavelov St, then turn right onto 1-vi May street. The Clock Tower will be on your left. The walk is approximately 5 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    Gabrovo has a public transportation system. Several bus lines operate near the Clock Tower. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information. A single bus fare within Gabrovo typically costs around 1 BGN.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Gabrovo. A short taxi ride from the outskirts of the city center to the Clock Tower will cost approximately 5-10 BGN. Ensure the meter is running or agree on a fare before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Clock Tower

The Clock Tower in Gabrovo is more than just a historical landmark; it's a testament to the town's rich past and the industrious spirit of its people. Completed in 1835 with contributions from local citizens, the tower provided a vital service by regulating the working day for Gabrovo's artisans. Standing at 27.70 meters, the tower was the tallest structure in Gabrovo at the time, making its bell audible throughout the settlement. The tower's architecture is representative of the Tryavna style, although its extended proportions are considered unique for its time. Surviving the burning of Gabrovo in 1798, the Clock Tower, along with the Konashki Bridge, remains one of the oldest landmarks in the city. The clock mechanism was crafted by Ivan Sahatchiyata, a local Gabrovo craftsman, while the bell was imported from Vienna. Although the tower was built in 1835, the clock face and hands weren't installed until 1878, after Bulgaria's liberation from Ottoman rule. Over the years, the Clock Tower has seen some changes. In 1952, the cross that once topped the tower was replaced with a communist star, which was later replaced with an amphora-shaped figurine in 1960. Today, the Gabrovo Clock Tower stands as a reminder of the town's history and a symbol of its enduring spirit.

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