On a picturesque hill, located in the heart of the Iskar Gorge, an old man gazes into the distance. The character of “Grandfather Yozo” from Vazov’s story comes to life from the pages of the tale, now taking on a real form! Near the village of Ochindol in the Mezdra region, we can also enjoy the scenic views of the Iskar Gorge, watch passing trains, and, just like Grandfather Yozo, take in the beauty of the landscape. And, we may even see him in person! 🙂
Thanks to the Mezdra Municipality and patriotic citizens, the sculpture of the literary character came to life in 2005. The idea for this monument was conceived by Ognyan Petrov from the village of Ochin Dol, and the execution was carried out by sculptors Monika Igareska from Mezdra and Georgi Tishkov from Vratsa. The grandfather sculpture stands at about 5 meters tall and is made of white Vratsa limestone. Beneath the monument, there is a charming wooden gazebo, where you can also enjoy the beautiful nature.
If you get hungry, there’s a tavern where you can eat. All of this is surrounded by incredibly beautiful flower gardens, with various flowers and shrubs. And a lot of lilac, which in the spring will captivate you with its fragrance. Below the entire complex, steep rocks descend. But the only thing you see is an endless blue sky, lots of greenery, and the Iskar River, winding its way between the rocks.
It’s relatively easy to get there by car. From Sofia, it takes about an hour and a half. They say you can also get there by train, but you’ll need to walk some distance as well. Personally, I would enjoy such an adventure and would gladly take the train through the gorge, just like the passengers in the story who were waved at by Grandfather Yotso from Vazov’s tale.
The passengers, standing by the windows of the carriages to admire the scenic bends of the gorge, were surprised to see a man on a hill on the other side, waving at them with his hat. It was Grandpa Yotzo. He was greeting New Bulgaria in this way.
Ivan Vazov
For me, this is a very beautiful and special place that makes you travel back in time. First, to remind yourself of when you first read Vazov’s story. And second, to remind yourself that what is written in it is still very valid today. I remember how the 84-year-old man, just before the Liberation, loses his sight and wishes to see the “Bulgarian.” With every encounter with the new and modern, he rejoices like a little child!
And the greatest joy is when he learns that a railroad will be built. Because, in his thoughts and imagination, the railroad is connected to the concept of a free Bulgaria. And the greatest joy for him is that the engineers and builders of this project are Bulgarians! My favorite part is when Grandfather Yotzo waves at the passengers on the train, and they wonder who this strange old man is 🙂
And everything that Vazov wrote so many years ago somehow still feels relevant today. Similar to the peasants in the story, who lead simple lives with nothing interesting happening, sometimes we find ourselves in similar situations. And at some point, we realize that, like blind Grandfather Yotzo, we also want to see freedom and experience something exciting and interesting!
So, if we find ourselves in such a situation, let’s do something small for ourselves! Like a trip to a beautiful and picturesque place that will recharge us with energy. Let’s say to the monument of Grandfather Yotzo… By car, or by train – give yourself this incredible experience, which will at least slightly change your thinking, understanding, and motivations for life. 🙂
