The small town of Smolyan is located in the southern part of the Central Rhodopes, 104 kilometers south of Plovdiv and 98 kilometers west of Kardzhali. It occupies a large part of the Black River valley. The town was founded in 1960, following the merging of the three main areas of Smolyan, Raikovo, and Ustovo. The population is about 32,000 people.
During the 4th and 5th centuries, the Thracians in the Rhodopes accepted Christianity, evidenced by the many basilicas from the 7th to 9th centuries. The impressive old house (built after 1835) in the Cheshitska neighborhood are very interesting. The houses are called twin fraternal houses and are very famous. They are two completely separate houses with a wall separating them completely. A good example is the Cheshitev House, made in the late 19th century by an unknown craftsman.
The biggest planetarium in Bulgaria is in Smolyan, and also features an astronomical observatory. Opened in 1975, it is one of the most popular places among tourists, who may attend lectures in the hall of the stars, or observe the skies through a telescope. There are also programs for children.
The town is often a starting point for tourists.
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