Pleven Panorama
Pleven
Pleven Panorama, also known as Pleven Epopee 1877, is a unique museum located in Pleven, Bulgaria, dedicated to the events of the Siege of Plevna during the Russo-Turkish War of 1877–78. The panorama vividly depicts the intense five-month siege that played a crucial role in Bulgaria's liberation from Ottoman rule. Created by a team of 13 Russian and Bulgarian artists, it features a massive 115 by 15 meter panoramic painting combined with a 12-meter foreground to immerse visitors in the historic battle. The museum complex includes four rooms: an introductory room, panoramic hall, diorama, and finale, designed to evoke empathy and authenticity about the battle's dramatic events. Situated within Skobelev Park, the site of major battles, the panorama stands as one of nearly 200 monuments in Pleven commemorating the sacrifices of Russian, Romanian, and Bulgarian soldiers. Visitors can also access rooftop viewing platforms offering vistas of key historical landmarks such as the Kovanklak and Issa Agha redoubts and the "Dead Valley" battlefield. Since its opening on December 10, 1977, marking the centenary of the siege's end, the panorama has attracted millions, establishing itself as a significant cultural and historical attraction in Bulgaria.
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Tip: The best time to visit Pleven Panorama is during the warmer months when the site is fully accessible, typically from May to September, allowing visitors to also enjoy the rooftop viewing platforms. It is recommended to check the official website for current opening hours, as they vary seasonally. Booking tickets in advance can help avoid queues, especially during peak tourist seasons. Discounts are generally available for students, seniors, and groups. Visitors should allocate sufficient time to experience the detailed panoramic painting and exhibitions fully.
Interesting facts
- •The Pleven Panorama features a 115×15-meter main canvas with a 12-meter foreground to create an immersive battlefield experience.
- •The museum is part of nearly 200 monuments in Pleven dedicated to the Russo-Turkish War and the Siege of Plevna.
- •Visitors can ascend to two rooftop viewing platforms that overlook significant battle sites such as the Kovanklak and Issa Agha redoubts and the 'Dead Valley'.
- •The panorama was created by a collaboration of 13 Russian and Bulgarian artists, led by Nikolay Ovetchkin from Moscow's M. Grekov Military Studio.
- •In the first three years after its opening, the panorama attracted approximately 2.5 million visitors.
History
The Pleven Panorama was constructed to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Siege of Plevna, a decisive battle in the Russo-Turkish War of 1877–78 that led to Bulgaria's liberation from Ottoman rule.
The panorama was designed by Russian author N.
Ovetchkin and created by a team of 13 Russian and Bulgarian artists.
It was officially unveiled on December 10, 1977, exactly one hundred years after the surrender of Ottoman forces.
The museum is located in Skobelev Park, the site of the key battles, and was built to honor the memory of the approximately 35,000 soldiers who lost their lives during the siege.
Over the decades, it has become a central historical monument and a symbol of Bulgarian national pride.
Place Guide
Introductory Room1977
This room features six canvases that depict the tragic fate of the people involved in the siege, highlighting their dramatic fight and compassion towards Russian soldiers. Visitors are immersed in scenes of battlefield chaos including attacking Russian regiments, Turkish cavalry charges, burning fires, and medical aid.
Panoramic Hall1977
The main panoramic painting spans 115 by 15 meters, surrounding visitors with a 360-degree view of the battlefield during the third battle of the Siege of Plevna. The artwork captures the intensity of the fighting, including the leadership of General Mikhail Skobelev and the fierce resistance of Ottoman forces.
Diorama and Finale Rooms1977
These rooms complement the panoramic painting with three-dimensional elements and narrative conclusions that emphasize the significance of the siege and its impact on Bulgarian liberation.
Rooftop Viewing Platforms
Accessible by elevators, these two platforms provide panoramic views of historic battlefields including the Kovanklak and Issa Agha redoubts, the 'Dead Valley', and surrounding elevations that were strategic during the siege.
Contact
Phone: 064 830 251
