Kapana - Where Art and Culture Come Together

Kapana is Plovdiv’s creative district, known for its many arts and crafts stores, stylish cafes, and the events it hosts all year round, the most famous of which is Kapana Fest. But how did this neighborhood come to be, and how did it grow into the creative hub it is today?

Named all the way back in the 15th century after two adjacent shops, “Kapana” means “the Trap”. It was originally the main trading post of the city, with over 880 workshops huddled together. To this day, some of its streets still retain their original names, which translate to “Ironsmith’s street”, “Goldsmith’s street”, “Tailor’s street”, “Furrier’s street”, showing what types of shops and trade they were intended for in the past. A devastating fire in the early 20th century lays a great deal of the buildings to waste and almost puts an end to Kapana. Plans to build a trading center in its place re made, but a vocal movement in support of preserving its unique function saves it from destruction, and the neighborhood is eventually restored.

Kapana regains its status of “Art District” in 2014. Since then, it has filled with workshops and arts and crafts stores, but more than that, local artists have transformed it into a work of art in itself. There has always been something creative in the irregular shape of its streets and the way they intersect at odd angles, a kind of style that doesn’t follow any rules but its own, and now with the help of some of Plovdiv’s best street artists, the very facades of its buildings are a canvas, spray-painted with hundreds of colorful images and scenes. There are sculptures behind every corner, modern in style, sometimes thoughtful and always playful, that seem to change on a daily basis. Even the cafes and bars hidden amongst the stores have put an emphasis on style and atmosphere, each with a unique look that fits right into the rest of the district.

As a place for celebrating art in all its forms, whether it is painted, crafted, woven, stitched, played, sung or performed, Kapana is where several major cultural events are held throughout the year. Its eponymous Kapana Fest is also known as the “Carnival of Street Arts”, and every year at the end of September and the beginning of October, for a couple days, the streets are covered in tents, stalls and makeshift stages, with huge crowds gathering to enjoy the festivities and partake in the true spirit of this neighborhood. Everything from the trinkets and baubles, to the books, to the food is lovingly made by Bulgarian artists and artisans, and each year has its own program that adds something new to the carnival, including exhibitions, concerts and other live performances.

Beloved by citizens of Plovdiv and visitors alike, Kapana is where traditional, popular and alternative art come together – a true gem in an already beautiful city. Next time you’re in Plovdiv, set a couple of hours aside for this neighborhood – while not big, it has a lot to offer. Kapana has the kind of atmosphere that deserves your full attention.