Amid the nature treasures of Western Stara Planina

Background & Location

The celebration took place in Western Stara Planina over several days, involving residents, experts and school children from Berkovitza and Belogradchik into the activities.

Objective

The aim of the event was to encourage participants to discover the natural and cultural treasures of Western Stara Planina and find out more about the European Green Belt. A specific aim was to discuss ways of adapting the current protection regime of the Rocks of Belogradchik Natural Monument to enhance management of the protected area. 

Approach & Results

During the celebration, over 130 people of different ages experienced a close encounter with the natural heritage of Western Stara Planina. The entire programme was inspirational and satisfying. Activities included hiking, presentations, student trips and an expert-led tour. During a scenic hike, the participants were impressed by the area's natural beauty and learned about protected species from the two botanists who accompanied them. Several participants climbed to the famous Koprenski Waterfalls and carefully explored the protected site's endemic flora. 

Another part of the program was a tour with a local tourism, geology and geography expert together with team members from both partner organizations throughout the Rocks of Belogradchik Natural Monument to discuss about the management of the protected area.

Over 100 students took part in the educational activities, which included presentations and excursions. They learnt about the European Green Belt, protected areas, scientific work (e.g. camera trapping), Natura 2000, and other interesting facts about nature in their region. Twenty students also visited the Magura Cave Natural Monument, which is known not only for its Paleolithic cave paintings created by early humans, but also for its large bat population. The students learned interesting facts about protected areas and Natura 2000 sites and the rich biodiversity they contain.

By taking part in the official holiday of Georgi Damyanovo Municipality, participants were also able to familiarise themselves with the region's cultural heritage, sample delicious local cuisine and enjoy a folk programme.

Funding note: This European Green Belt Days celebration has been funded by the EU through the BESTbelt Pilot Project.