Rupite

The region of Rupite is located in Southwestern Bulgaria, close to the Struma River. The district is the crater of an extinct volcano, and the relief is dominated by the volcanic hill Kozhuh, the thermal springs and the Pchelina hill. Rupite was declared a protected area in 1980. The village of Rupite is situated 8 km northeastern direction from Petrich. The region is known for the rare trees and animals, some of which are included in the Bulgarian Red Book. A lot of curable mineral springs as well as the church St. Petka of the Bulgarian prophet Vanga are located here. Rupite is also an ornithological station, dealing with the movement of the migrating birds. Baba Vanga, the world-recognized prophet of Bulagria, used to say that this place is satiated with a special energy. The place has been inhabited since the highest antiquity, which is shown by the numerous historical monuments found nearby. An antique town, arisen in the last quarter of 4th century and existed until 6th century, is found at the southwestern foot of the Kozhuh hill.