This is a typical Bulgarian cheshma (well). Normally there is a spring near the cheshma and the water is very pure. Most of this wells are being built in honor of a dead man or to praise an event. Most of the "cheschmi" had been built centuries ago, but they are being constantly restored or repaired when necessary. As seen from the picture, there is an older wall behind. About 99% of the "cheshmi" in my region are being built with private funds and considering the fact that the Bulgarians are not very rich and especially in the rural regions of the country, this monuments are being constructed by stages.
<p>You can notice that the front side is faced with special flat stones. Many people in the region make their living by excavating such stones. The tub is built up of concrete and maybe when the builders save enough money they will face it with stones too.
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In the village's belonging the number of the "cheshmi" consists of 3 digits and exceeds 200 due to the water-rich terrain.
<a rel="nofollow" class="external text" href="http://www.trekearth.com/members/kumbarov/">Atanas Kumbarov</a>
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