The Regional Ethnographic Museum – Plovdiv will present the exhibition “Bakam Carpets” in early October 2026, offering visitors a rare opportunity to discover previously unseen early examples of Bulgarian carpet weaving dating from the 17th to the 19th century.

The exhibition features Bakam carpets from Chiprovtsi, recognized as the earliest known Bulgarian carpets. Several of the exhibited pieces have been officially designated as part of Bulgaria’s national cultural heritage, highlighting their exceptional historical and artistic value.

The collection belongs to Jacob van Beijlen, a Dutch collector with a deep connection to Bulgaria and a passionate advocate for Bulgarian textile heritage. Among the highlights is one of the oldest surviving Bulgarian carpets, woven as early as the 17th century.

Opening in early October 2026, the exhibition invites visitors to explore a compelling story told through colours, patterns, and symbols, reflecting the remarkable craftsmanship of the master weavers of Chiprovtsi. It offers a unique journey into centuries of Bulgarian tradition, artistry, and cultural identity preserved through the timeless art of carpet weaving.