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Blagoevgrad is situated at the foot of the southwestern slopes of the Rila Mountain, on both banks of Blagoevgradska Bistritza river (which is within the river-basin of the large River Strumais), and is one of the largest towns in southwestern Bulgaria, considered to be the main centre of Pirin Macedonia. It is located 101km. south of Sofia, 53 km. northwest of Razlog and 65 km. to north of Sandanski.
It is a regional centre and spa resort with over thirty mineral springs with temperatures reaching 55 C. In Bachinovo Park which sits in the valley of the Blagoevgraska Bistritsa River, the town festival is held every June. Just 16 km. to the northwest of Blagoevgrad is the famous village of Stob with its elegant earthernware pyramids finished with circuar blocks of rock.
Dating back to the New Stone Age, remains of a Neolithic settlement were found as recently as 1959 in the nearby village of Tserovo. The settlement was part of the Macedon Empire ruled by Philip II. The current town originated during the Ottoman domination and is a beautful place to visit with its marble walkways and decoration.
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