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The history of Velingrad - from the mineral springs to the modern SPA capital
Velingrad is a unique Bulgarian town located in the heart of the Rhodope Mountains. Thanks to its more than 80 hot mineral springs and beautiful nature, it is called the spa capital of Bulgaria. The town offers mineral pools, walks in parks and panoramic views combined with modern amenities.
Historical roots and foundation
Over the centuries the Chepinska valley - the area around today's Velingrad - has been inhabited by Thracians, Romans and Slavs. The Romans were the first to appreciate the power of the healing springs. After the Liberation several settlements were formed, famous for their mineral baths. In 1948 the three nearby villages - Chepino, Lajene and Kamenitsa - united into one town - Velingrad.
Mineral springs and balneology
Velingrad is proud of the richness of its mineral springs - over 80, with an average temperature of about 42-45 °C. The mineral waters are crystalline, warm and slightly mineralised. The most famous springs, such as Kleptuza in the Chepino district, create parks with lakes and a cool atmosphere. The mineral water is sodium-hydrocarbonate and alkaline, suitable for outdoor baths as well as for drinking. Several deposits in the three districts (Chepinsko, Ladzhensko and Kamiensko) have slightly different chemical compositions.
The healing properties of the springs have been known since ancient times, and today balneological tourism is developing here. The mineral waters are used for various healing procedures. For example:
- Waters with sulphur compounds - useful for skin and rheumatic problems;
- Radon springs - favor the nervous system and musculoskeletal system;
- Fluorine springs - strengthen teeth and bones;
- Hydrocarbonate-sulfate waters - for gastrointestinal and kidney diseases.
The town was declared a spa resort of national importance in 1951 and of international importance in 1981, confirming its status as an important spa centre.
Contemporary resort - spa capital
Velingrad was awarded the title of Spa Capital of Bulgaria in 2005 and Spa Capital of the Balkans in 2008. Today the town offers numerous modern spa and wellness complexes as well as mineral pools - both outdoors in nature and in closed spa centers. In each of the districts of Chepino, Lajene and Kamenica there are public spas and modern spa complexes.
Notable among these are the new luxury retreats that combine modern architecture with the authentic power of mineral water - such as the Kashmir Wellness & SPA, set amid greenery and panoramic views.
Tourists can enjoy the clean mountain air and favourable climate, as well as nature walks and visits to attractions such as Kleptuza Park with its two lakes and the Yundola area. Combining natural wealth, cultural heritage and high-end services, Velingrad is consolidating its position as a modern spa capital.
Interesting facts about Velingrad
- Velingrad is located near the intersection of the 24th meridian and the 42nd parallel - a local attraction for tourists.
- The highest railway station on the Balkans (Avramovo, 1267 m) is on the narrow-gauge Dobrinishte - Septemvri railway, which passes near Velingrad.
- The world-famous opera singer Nikolai Gyaurov was born in Kamenitsa.
- The Kleptuza Park with its two lakes is an emblem of Velingrad - the water from its springs (about 600 l/s) provides coolness and romance in summer.
- Belmeken Dam - the highest stone-walled dam on the Balkans (1560 m), located near Velingrad, offers clean air, beautiful views and is popular for walking and fishing.
The history of Velingrad is inextricably linked with its mineral springs. Since ancient times the town has been developing as a spa resort combining natural wealth and cultural heritage.
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