Rila Monastery and Rila Mountain
In the heart of the mountain
The road gradually enters deeper and deeper into Rila.
Then high stone walls appear between the mountain slopes.
From the outside, the Rila Monastery almost looks like a fortress. Behind the gate, however, are arcades, colorful murals, a stone tower, and one of the most recognizable temples in Bulgaria.
This is a place that is difficult to understand from a photo alone.
A little history
The history of the monastery begins in the 10th century and is associated with St. Ivan of Rila.
Over the centuries, the Rila Monastery became one of the most important spiritual and cultural centers of Bulgaria.
What to see
The monastery complex and the main church.
The Khrely Tower.
The monastery museum.
The cave of St. Ivan of Rila, if you have more time.
And after the monastery?
Don't rush back to Sofia.
Rila is the highest mountain in Bulgaria and one of the country's great natural destinations.
The Seven Rila Lakes can be a separate one-day experience, and more serious mountaineers have a huge network of routes at their disposal.
Allow: 1 day for the monastery / 2–3 days with the mountain
Suitable for: history, spiritual heritage, nature, hiking
Best season: the monastery – year-round; the high mountain – depending on the conditions
Combine with: The Seven Rila Lakes