General information
The Rila Monastery was founded in the 10th century by St. Ivan of Rila, the most revered Bulgarian saint. Located in the Rila Mountains, the monastery has been a spiritual and cultural center of Bulgaria for centuries.
The building impresses with its unique architecture, painted murals and wood carvings. The monastery is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
What to see?
- The main church of the Nativity of the Virgin
- Raphael's Cross Museum
- The old monastic cells and the tower of Khrelio
- Frescos by Zachary Zograf
Useful information
Location: South Rila, 117 km from Sofia
Entrance: Free (museum has a fee)
Suitable for: Families, tourists, pilgrims