Rila Monastery
The most famous monastery in Bulgaria, deep in the Rila mountains.
Why go?
The Rila Monastery was founded in the 10th century by the hermit John of Rila, who lived here in a cave in the mountains. It grew into the spiritual heart of Bulgaria. After a great fire in 1833 it was largely rebuilt, but the stone Hrelyo Tower from 1335 remained standing. Behind the thick walls you see striped arches, wooden galleries and a church full of colourful frescoes. It has been on the UNESCO World Heritage list since 1983.
Don't miss
The monastery church
Full of frescoes, inside and under the open gallery, painted by Zahari Zograf among others.
The Hrelyo Tower
The oldest tower of the monastery, from the 14th century.
Hiking in the area
A forest path leads to the cave where John of Rila lived. Further paths lead into the Rila mountains.
Practical
What we thought
The Rila Monastery remains impressive, however often you go. The colourful frescoes against the surrounding mountains are truly special. Go early and you will have the courtyard almost to yourself.
— The Groen family, DobrinishteAffiliate links: we receive a small fee, you pay nothing extra.
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Thermal baths
Narrow-gauge railway
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How to get here