Kazanlak - The Valley of Roses and Thracian Kings
Municipality of Kazanlak occupies the picturesque Rose Valley at the southern foothills of Stara Planina Mountains. Kazanlak valley is the biggest and most beautiful of all sub-Balkan valleys. Its size is about 780 sq. km and its average altitude is 350 m above sea level. The Tundja River, second biggest in Bulgaria, springs from the Kalofer Balkan and runs through the whole area.
Mild winter, with small number of snowy days, early spring, warm summer and cool autumn are typical for Kazanlak region. Western winds prevail. Summer rains are frequent, while the beginning of autumn is often dry.The town of Kazanlak (pop. 54,000) is the economic and cultural center of the area, capital of rose-production. It lies at 200 km from Sofia, 55 km from Karlovo, 48 km from Gabrovo, 32 km from Stara Zagora and 108 km from Plovdiv. Varna is 309 km away, Burgas - 195 km and the Danube port of Ruse - 192 km from the town. Kazanlak is a lively transport center. The major road and railway Sofia - Karlovo - Burgas passes through here.
Bus and railway stations are close to one another, at the southern part of town. Regular bus lines run to Gabrovo, Lovech, Stara Zagora, Plovdiv and Karlovo.
Kazanlak occupies an important place on the economic map of the country. It develops armour production, food industry, the making the woolen and silk textiles, musical instruments, perfumery and cosmetics, pneumatic and hydraulic appliances. People grow cereals, oil-roses, vines and fruits; animal-breeding is also well-developed. The town hosts an institute for roses and other oil-giving and curative plants.