Eastern Orthodox monastery in Bulgaria
“A destination where art, history and modern culture come together in unforgettable ways.”
The Monastery of Saint John of Rila, also known as Rila Monastery ("Sveti Ivan Rilski", is the largest and most famous Eastern Orthodox monastery in Bulgaria. It is situated in the southwestern Rila Mountains, 117 km south of the capital Sofia in the deep valley of the Rilska River at an elevation of 1,147 m above sea level, inside of Rila Monastery Nature Park and in close vicinity of the Rila Monastery Forest Nature Reserve. The monastery is named after its founder, the hermit Saint Ivan of Rila, and houses approximately 60 monks. The monastery is a popular pilgrimage site for many Orthodox Christians.
What it’s like to be here — and what to go and see.
Gentle temperatures invite leisurely walks without the summer crowds.
Long, sunny days give you extra hours to explore and soak it all in.
Crisp air and golden colors set a peaceful backdrop for wandering.
Crisp, quiet days offer a peaceful way to take in the sights.
A rough, general read — not a precise guide.
There is little organized public transport here; getting around usually means walking, taxis or a car.
