Even before arriving in Shipka, you’ll see the splendid, onion-shaped golden domes of the Nativity Memorial Church glittering from amidst verdure above the village, framed against the mountain. Part of the Shipka Monastery, and also called the Church of St Nikolai, the magnificent structure was built in 1902 to honour soldiers who died at the Shipka Pass battle.
The design is deliberately influenced by Russian architecture, and features five golden domes and 17 church bells that resound for several kilometres. Inside the crypt Russian soldiers who perished are interred, and frescoes depict scenes from Russian history. If it’s not cloudy, the church offers marvellous views of the Valley of Roses. To get there, follow the sign labelled Hram Pametnik for 1.2km through the village, or walk 300m up from the restaurant along the Kazanlâk–Gabrovo road.
