The site was chosen because it is easily accessible and is the closest point to the detachment’s final battle in 1876 during their struggle for Bulgaria’s freedom. The monument is a reinforced concrete cross. It stands 26.60 m tall, and at its base is the “St. George” chapel. In the Yolkovitsa ravine, a natural rock with an inscription carved into it marks the site where the poet-revolutionary fell.
Every year on June 2, national celebrations are held in the area in honor of Hristo Botev and all those who fell for Bulgaria’s freedom. On June 1, participants in the national hiking trek following in the footsteps of Botev’s detachment arrive via the path from the Kozloduy Riverbank, and an entire tent camp is set up.
The beautiful natural surroundings of the monument and the region’s rich history attract many tourists. Okolchitsa Peak is a favorite spot for hang gliders from all over the world and a popular weekend getaway.
It is accessible via a renovated paved road. The site can also be reached by bus to the villages of Chelopek and Pavlovche; from both villages, it is about an hour and a half on foot to Okolchitsa Peak. Access on foot from the city of Vratsa is via the “Path of Botev’s Detachment” eco-trail, which takes about 3 hours of steady walking.
