School Karapcha
In this small village, located in the Upper Thracian Plain of Bulgaria, lies a fascinating yet eerie abandoned school. Once filled with the laughter of children, the building now stands silent, slowly succumbing to decay. Despite its condition, stepping inside feels like entering a time capsule.
Abandoned schools are not uncommon in Bulgaria, particularly in rural areas. The primary reason is the country’s declining population. Many villages have seen a dramatic decrease in residents due to urban migration and low birth rates. Of the 820 inhabitants in this village, registered in February 2011, only 5% were younger than 15 years old, while 53% of the inhabitants are 65 years or older. As a result, schools that once served thriving communities have been closed and left to decay. These buildings stand as reminders of a changing society and the challenges faced by small, remote communities.
Nature taking over
The school has been left empty for many years. Nature is gradually taking over, with walls falling apart and cracks appearing in the floors. However, the classrooms are surprisingly well-preserved. Desks and chairs still sit where they were left, and old chalkboards still hang on the walls. As you walk through the hallways, you can discover closets filled with books, posters, and other traces of the past.
Soviet-era memorabilia
One notable aspect of this school is the collection of Soviet-era memorabilia. Posters showcasing Soviet ideals and symbols offer a window into the time when the school was in operation. These artifacts serve as a reminder of Bulgaria’s history throughout the 20th century.
Among the more unusual finds are jars filled with preserved animals. Frogs and fish, suspended in formaldehyde, sit on dusty shelves. These remnants from biology lessons contribute an eerie yet intriguing element to the school’s narrative.
This forgotten school serves as a poignant reminder of how swiftly time moves on and how easily locations can fade from memory. Nevertheless, its remnants preserve its story for those who are curious enough to delve into its past. I explored the abandoned School Karapcha in 2022.
