Almanac of Prefab Trakiya

The book presents the evolution of a typical, yet unique residential neighbourhood. Born as an experiment, Trakiya grew from a stereotype for a plattenbau neighbourhood into a preferred dwelling place for the residents of Plovdiv and its surroundings.

The Almanac is a result of an extensive survey, in which more than 60 specialists and volunteers took part. The research was carried out between February and August 2016 as part of the preparations for ONE ARCHITECTURE WEEK 2016. The book includes archival and current information on the status of the various elements of the urban environment, cartographic materials from field surveys, graphic materials and sketches, data from the sociological survey conducted for the purpose of the research, analysis of meetings with residents of the area, and articles on related topics.

The research was executed thanks to the efforts of many different partners: university students and teachers, NGOs, various state and municipal institutions, local residents, individuals and private companies. With its specially developed methodology, the study makes a snapshot of the current state of the residential area and thus reveals the power of citizen participation and its role as a primary cause for transformations of the urban environment in the last 26 years.

The book is published by the Janet 45 publishing house and can be purchased on their website.