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The House-Museum of Naim Süleymanoğlu is located in the heart of Momchilgrad and preserves the story of a man the world knows as the “Pocket Hercules,”remembered by generations as a symbol of extraordinary talent and personal courage.
Although he was born in the village of Ptichar, Naim moved with his family to Momchilgrad at the age of ten - the town that would later become the guardian of his memory. Today, the museum exhibition is arranged in this very house.
What will you see in the museum?
On the first floor, visitors encounter the human side of the champion — personal belongings, as well as reconstructions of his room in Ptichar and his home in Momchilgrad. The second floor is dedicated to the sports legend: the very first barbell he trained with, dozens of medals, trophies, and photographs from his greatest triumphs on world podiums.
Who is Naim?
In 1998, the International Weightlifting Federation named him Weightlifter No. 1 of the 20th century. Over the course of his career, he became:
- a three-time Olympic champion
- a seven-time world champion and seven-time European champion
- the holder of 46 world records
Due to his height of just 1.47 meters, he earned the nickname “Pocket Hercules,” yet his strength far exceeded physical dimensions.
From sporting peak to moral choice
Naim’s life was not defined by medals alone. He also became a victim of the so-called “Revival Process” - a period during which Bulgarian Turks were forced to change their names. Naim refused. This decision changed his fate - leading to escape, tension, and a new beginning. Competing under the Turkish flag, he once again conquered Olympic heights, securing his place forever in the history of world sport.
A living memory
Naim Süleymanoğlu passed away on November 18, 2017, at the age of just 50. In 2019, a monument was unveiled in Momchilgrad bearing the inscription:
“Champion of all times, who brought glory to Bulgaria and Turkey.”
The house-museum tells a story of talent, identity, and the courage to remain true to oneself - even when the price is high. It is a place well worth visiting, so that this remarkable history may be remembered.
Tickets
Individual visits
- Adults – 6.00 BGN | 3.07 EUR
- Pensioners, students, pupils – 3.00 BGN | 1.53 EUR (with valid document)срещу представен документ)
Group visits
- Adults – 4.00 BGN | 2.05 EUR
- Pensioners, students, pupils – 2.00 BGN | 1.02 EUR (with valid document)срещу представен документ)
Guided tour
25.00 BGN | 12.78 EUR
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