The Rila Monastery is the most famous Bulgarian monastery, situated deep in the heart of the Rila Mountain Founded in the 10th century by the monk Ivan Rilski, it has survived periods of both rapid development and decline through the years.
There are over 300 premises on a built-up area of 32,000 square meters. This truly renaissance palace of the spirit is majesty and intimacy in one. The biggest gilded iconostasis in Bulgaria, various frescos, icons and woodcarvings can be seen in the main church such as the Nativity of the Virgin Church with its miracle icon of the Virgin and splendid gilded iconostasis, the Monastery kitchen, Hrelyu’s Tower and many spectacular views from the mountain and the surrounding nature.
Today, the monastery is under the aegis of UNESCO.

Duration: 7 hours