Rila Monastery is the monastery of greatest importance in Bulgaria. It is also the most imposing one in the country. Rila Monastery was founded in the 10th century by St. John of Rila, a hermit canonized by the Orthodox Church. His ascetic dwelling and tomb became a holy site and were transformed into a monastic complex, which subsequently played an important role in the spiritual and social life of mediaeval Bulgaria.

     Address: 2643 Rila Monastery

     Tel: (+359 7054) 22 08

     Exhibition: Rila Monastery is situated in Rila Mountain, at an altitude of 1,147 m, 117 km south from Sofia. It presents the greatest tourist attraction among the monasteries in Bulgaria with its size, beautiful nature, architecture, wall-paintings and old history. The monument is a characteristic example of Bulgarian Renaissance (18th-19th centuries) and symbolizes an awareness of a Slavic cultural identity following centuries of occupation.

     Besides the monastery complex, it also offers visits to the History Museum, Ethnographic Exhibition, Monastery Farm Museum of the 19th c., collection of icons, guest rooms.

     Selected from the collections: Mediaeval defense tower, Main monastery church, St. Luke Church (1797), rich collection of manuscripts and early printed books, collection of icons.

     Documentation: Monastery library

     Branches and annexes: Mediaeval defense tower – Hrelyo Tower, main monastery church, St. Luke Church (1797) with the wall-paintings, Orlitsa, Old Hermitage, Pchelino site.

     Facilities: Souvenir shops,  restaurants and hotels (in the vicinity).

     Services: Guided tours in English and Bulgarian, hall.

     Visiting hours: Everyday – 08:00 am - 05:00 pm