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Rila Monastery and Boyana Church Self-guided Tour

79 Reviews
Culture & history Activities Entry tickets Art Reseller exclusions Nature & adventure

Experience the jewel of Bulgarian cultural and historical heritage. Marvel at over 1,000 years of history through the architecture of the sprawling monastery. View 11th century frescoes at Boyana Church on the way back.

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Highlights

  • Experience the lush and vibrant religious history of Bulgaria through 3 sacred sites
  • Gaze at 11th-century frescoes
  • Breath in fresh mountain air amidst lush pine forests

Description

After pickup from any accommodation in Sofia, your journey through over 1,000 years of Bulgarian cultural history begins. Make the 2-hour drive to the Rila Monastery via air-conditioned bus into the dense pine forests of Rila Mountain. Upon arriving, you can explore the monastery, which was founded in 927, at your own pace with 2 hours of free time. Amble the 21-acre complex, taking in the colorful and unique traditional Orthodox architecture. Gaze at the 5-domed church, with its numerous altars, side chapels, and gold-plated mosaics. Take in the beauty of the tranquil mountain environment surrounding the peaceful place of worship. Afterwards, you’ll have spare time for lunch, before heading on to your next destination. Only a couple of miles away from the monastery into the forest is St. Ivan Rilski Cave, where St. Ivan of Rila took up residency in the early 10th century. Experience a sacred site of tremendous importance to Bulgarian Orthodox Christians. On the way back to Sofia, you’ll pass through Boyana Church, famed for its elaborate frescoes dating back to the 11th, 13th, 15th-17th, and 19th century. Afterwards, you’ll be transported back back to your accommodation in Sofia.

Includes

Pickup and drop-off from any address in Sofia Transport in comfortable minibus English speaking Driver

Important Information

  • Self - guided (no guide)

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

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