125 years of organised tourism in Gorna Oryahovitsa: Kamaka Hiking Association

Kamaka Hiking Association in Gorna Oryahovitsa has marked 125 years since the beginning of organised tourism in the town. The main celebration took place on 21 October, with local media reporting on the anniversary concert and other events on 23 October.

The anniversary programme lasted almost two hours. Association secretary Mariana Dimitrova recalled the development of the local hiking community and the club's work. The celebrations also featured mountain-themed film screenings, meetings with outdoor enthusiasts, and joint initiatives with the municipality and volunteers.

The programme included competitions for children and students dedicated to the Gorna Oryahovitsa peony, the town's symbols and experiences in nature. Organisers thus involved not only longstanding association members but also the next generation of young hikers.

According to historical information presented by the History Museum in Gorna Oryahovitsa, the origins date to a gathering of local nature lovers in the Bozhur Polyana area on 21 October 1901. The association was registered the following year. The museum notes that founding documents have not survived and parts of its early history were reconstructed from recollections.

Over the years the hiking organisation has arranged not only walks but cultural and community initiatives as well. This broader role of local clubs was a central theme of the anniversary celebrations.