Septemvri: Pistiros, Wine and Landscape

Septemvri is a municipality in Pazardzhik Province. Its landscape stretches between the northern slopes of the Rhodope Mountains and the foothills of Sredna Gora, in the western Upper Thracian Plain along the Maritsa Valley. Plains, semi-mountainous areas and mountainous terrain shape the landscape. There are also more than 200 archaeological monuments from various periods. Ancient history, nature and wine therefore offer different starting points for a visit to the municipality.

Landscapes, Rivers and Natural Areas

The rivers in the municipality include the Maritsa and Chepinska. There are stocked waters along the Maritsa, and small reservoirs near Vetren, Karabunar, Slavovitsa and Semchinovo. Protected and notable natural areas include the Alabak Ridge (Bozhovets), Trunova Laka, and the protected areas of Sveta Marina and Sveta Georgi. The municipality is considered suitable for hiking and ecotourism, as well as cultural, rural and wine tourism, fishing and hunting tourism. When planning a trip, visitors can therefore consider the different landscapes and natural features alongside the archaeological sites.

Archaeology in Septemvri and Pistiros

The Prof. Mieczyslaw Domaradzki Archaeological Museum in Septemvri is considered the only specialized archaeological museum in Pazardzhik Province. Its permanent exhibition on Pistiros explores ancient contacts and trade, urban planning and architecture, crafts and production, everyday life and religious beliefs. Highlights include 552 silver and gold coins, as well as signet rings connected with trade. The numismatic collection also contains more than 1,500 coins of Thracian rulers. A Greek inscription from Pistiros on display in the museum served as a legal document regulating the status of the emporion.

The emporion of Pistiros was an important trading center in the economic and cultural life of ancient Thrace. Excavations have uncovered sections of the eastern fortification wall, including a gate, bastion and tower. Other finds include a paved road, buildings on stone foundations and a stone drainage channel. The museum and excavation site offer different perspectives: the exhibition provides context for trade and daily life, while the exposed structures illustrate the layout of the ancient settlement.

Churches and Historical Landmarks

The Church of St. John the Baptist in Karabunar is partially built underground. It is known for its woodcarving from the Samokov School; its iconostasis is among the earliest works of that school. The church is protected as a cultural monument. Remains of medieval fortresses can also be found near Semchinovo and Varvara. Varvara is also home to an Early Christian basilica. These places add evidence from other periods to the history of Pistiros.

Wine, Tastings and Accommodation in Karabunar

Wineries in Vetren, Vinogradec and Septemvri are named as possible stops on a wine route promoting wines from Vetren and Karabunar. In Karabunar, Villa Velis offers wine tastings, winery tours and private events throughout the year. The winery also has a wine and delicatessen shop, as well as a bistro serving seasonal cuisine with its own character, prepared from local products. It also hosts theater performances, exhibitions, concerts and contemporary art festivals.

The Villa Velis Hotel is next to the winery. It offers eight double rooms and two apartments, as well as a spa center and an outdoor pool. This makes it a specifically named accommodation option with a direct connection to the winery in Karabunar. If you are planning to stay there during a particular period, check availability before your trip.

Mineral Springs and Train Journeys

Thermal mineral springs with temperatures above 72°C are located near Varvara and Vetren Dol. The Varvara mineral bath area includes older baths associated with the water’s balneological properties. These places offer a distinct focus alongside archaeology and wine.

Road connections in the municipality include the Trakia Motorway and the E80 Sofia–Svilengrad route. Rail services run from Sofia via Septemvri, continuing toward Plovdiv, Burgas, Varna and Svilengrad. Another travel option is the Rhodope narrow-gauge railway, which runs from Septemvri via Velingrad, Yakoruda, Razlog and Bansko to Dobrinishte. Tourist trips along the highest railway line in the Balkans operate year-round. Check the timetable before setting out. When choosing a hotel, it is helpful to consider how it relates to your trip: Villa Velis is next to the winery in Karabunar, while the Archaeological Museum and the rail connections mentioned above are associated with Septemvri.

Discover more destinations: Karabunar, Septemvri, Vetren, Vetren Dol, Lesichovo, Rakitovo, Pazardzhik, Strelcha.

For the overview of the wider region: Pazardzhik Province.