One of the main historical and religious attractions of Bulgaria is the Rila Monastery. It is located 117 kilometers south of the capital Sofia, in the Rila Mountains. This magnificent building with strong energy attracts tourists from all over the world. In addition to the monastery itself, the surrounding picturesque area also delights. Around is a wonderful natural park surrounded by mountains and pristine lakes.
Historical reference
This monastery was named after its founder, John of Rila, who laid the foundation for the monastery in the 10th century. The building was destroyed and rebuilt many times, the monastery has been at its current location since 1335.
At the beginning of the 14th century, a stone church was built, and all buildings were renovated and strengthened. In subsequent years, the Turkish army almost completely destroyed and ruined the monastery. After that, he was deserted for several decades - the flow of pilgrims decreased, and part of the land of the monastery was taken away.
Then the Rila Monastery was rebuilt by three brothers - Joasaphan, David and Theophanes. The cult of the relics of Ivan Rilsky also returned, which became a symbol of the power of the Christian church and the growth of consciousness of the Bulgarian people. People from all over the country came here to see the restored Rila Monastery. Bulgaria was able to hold out in difficult times and maintain the spirit and strength of its people, thanks in large part to this place.
In the late XVI - early XVII centuries, the monastery was badly damaged by the Turks. And much of the restored in it was again destroyed. But despite all the hardships, the Rila Monastery continued to remain the center of the country.
In the 1830s there was a serious fire. It was very difficult to obtain permission to restore the shrine from the Turkish authorities, which ensured that the monastery did not expand.
Currently, the Rila Monastery is a national historical Bulgarian monument, and is also included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Modernity
The Rila Monastery of Bulgaria is a functioning male monastery recognized by the Orthodox shrine of the country. To this day, a tower with a small church has been preserved in it. Here you can also see the throne and carved gates preserved for a long time.
There are many hotels and restaurants around the monastery, and you can also spend the night in the building itself. Its appearance may seem strict and severe, but inside it everything is done with grace and harmony. The construction can be called a real Renaissance palace.
The complex covers an area of more than 8,500 square meters. Here you can admire the famous frescoes and icons. The complex also has a museum, where a large number of exhibits are located.
Also in the nature park "Rila Monastery" there are several hiking trails. They all begin at the monastery. Routes are clearly marked, the signs for each of them have their own color, so you won’t get lost.
Visitors reviews
People who visited this place note that it is filled with delicious energy, the Rila Monastery is famous for its miracles. The reviews also concern the unique views of the surrounding area, consisting of mountains, forests of rivers and lakes, beautiful both in summer and in winter.
The recall of one of the visitors proves the unimaginable appeal of this place. The girl says that she took her breath away from the beauty she saw. Another delighted review from an amazed visitor indicates that when you go inside, you get the feeling that you are in a different world. Many say that a trip to the Rila Monastery is for the most part emotion, sensation. The monastery is surrounded by beautiful views that are best to see for yourself. Therefore, those travelers who have been here recommend everyone to visit this place.
How to get there
The Rila Monastery Natural Park is located in the municipality of Rila, on the western side of the Rila Mountains.
The answer to the question "How to get from Sofia to the Rila Monastery?" pretty simple. You can buy a bus tour from Sofia and other major cities and resorts in Bulgaria. You can take a bus to Rila on your own, where the monastery will remain approximately 20 kilometers away. Shuttle taxis run from Rila to the mansion. There are also direct flights directly to the complex from Sofia.
The journey from the capital will take about 2 hours, from Burgas - 5 hours, from Varna - 7 hours, from Plovdiv - 3 hours.
Conclusion
One of the main attractions of the country, famous for its strength of mind, is the Rila Monastery. Bulgaria is rightfully proud of its heritage. It was here that the invincible spirit of freedom hovered, which gave strength to the Bulgarian people for many centuries. Rila Monastery is a unique and attractive place. He has a very rich history.
Rila Monastery is the largest operating monastery in Bulgaria. There is also a natural national park, famous for its landscapes and interesting tourist routes. A visit to this place is necessary for everyone who is interested in history, religion and just loves nature.