Discover Kosovo: Rhodope Architecture and Culture

Kosovo preserves typical Rhodope architecture from the Revival period. This gives visitors two themes to explore: the history of the buildings and the village, and trails through the surrounding landscape. Old houses, a church and a school bring the cultural heritage to life; ridges and waterways add a natural dimension to the cultural focus.

Revival Architecture and Local History

Kosovo’s settlement dates back to the 17th century, when settlers from Staro Selo, near the Byala Cherkva Monastery, came to live here. Most of the surviving houses date from the village’s heyday in the late 19th century. The early history of the village and the later period represented by most of its surviving buildings can thus be read as two distinct periods.

The old houses are built of stone, earth, wood and lime, and are 150, 200 or more years old. To get a sense of local building traditions, consider both the materials used and the long span of time represented by these houses.

Kosovo has 63 cultural monuments, including five of national importance. The Church of the Dormition of the Mother of God dates from 1851 and was built by master builder Hadji Georgi Stanchovski. The Hadjiyska House is also associated with this master builder: he built it in 1853, and it is designated a cultural monument.

The old school, dating from 1889, is considered especially interesting to visitors. Other heritage sites of interest to tourists include a watermill, a blacksmith’s workshop, an ossuary and numerous old houses. The selection ranges from the church and school to examples of craftsmanship and rural architecture.

Landscape and Hiking Trails

The area around Kosovo has ridges considered to be in a natural state. Four streams that flow year-round run through the hamlets. The contrast between the surrounding ridges and the waterways in the settlements adds a landscape perspective to the historic buildings.

A marked hiking trail leads to Kosovo from Narechenski Bani. It starts at the Solenoto Izvorche restaurant and takes about two hours. Before setting out, check trail conditions and signage, as both may change.

Another route around Kosovo passes through old oak forests and meadows, and by surviving shepherds’ buildings near Narechenski Bani. The forests, open spaces and shepherds’ buildings give this route a distinct focus alongside the village’s historic buildings.

Guest Rooms and Dining

The Hadjiyska House has been restored and opened to guests. The building has guest rooms, and there is a tavern in the courtyard. Accommodation and dining options may change, so check current availability before making specific plans.

The Hadjiyska House gastro-tavern is located in a renovated old barn in the courtyard of the Hadjiyska House. It serves contemporary cuisine by Bar Samar in a Rhodope and Revival-style setting. As restaurant operations and menus may change, check current options before visiting.

More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Narechen, Novakovo, Bachkovo, Asenovgrad, Cherven.

Back to the main travel guide: Asenovgrad.