Built in 1825-842, the Agushe Konats are a unique pre-Renaissance feudal-aristocratic architectural ensemble. They are the only ones of their kind preserved on the Balkan Peninsula. The complex consists of three buildings (konats), each with a separate courtyard, with a well and everything necessary. The women’s building is separated by high internal walls, in which revolving dolakhs are built, so that when talking or handing over belongings from anyone, the woman is not visible.
In this way the women are spared the obligation of covering their face permanently. The three buildings are enclosed by a common wall, which gives the Agusheh Konaks the appearance of a real castle. The feeling is further enhanced by the tower rising on the southeast corner of the walls. Despite all the fortifications, the Konaks are not at all sinister or scary.
On the contrary, the white colour and the paintings on the tower give a rather fresh and warm look to the palace. The impression is no different when you go inside – wide porches, lots of windows, cosy courtyards. Two colours dominate everywhere – the snowy white of the whitewashed walls and chimneys and the dark brown of the old beams and gates. And to make the fairy tale complete, inside the rooms are arranged amazing collections of Bulgarian folk crafts – a real treasure trove of cloths, rugs, chans and ornaments.
For about 27 years it was used as a museum, but since 2001 it has been returned to 13 heirs. Until 2001, visitors could explore the museum complex with a restored domestic setting, but the exhibition was relegated to the museum funds of the History Museum in Smolyan after the descendants of Agush Aga were introduced into the estate. For two years the konak has been open for free visits. Now the heirs give a tour of the konaks to any tourist who wants to come to Mogilitsa.
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