Cultural Bulgaria

Rila Monastery

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The Rila Monastery is a symbol of the 19th-century Bulgarian Renaissance.

The monastery in the remote Rila Mountains has its origins in the 10th century and had a strong influence on the Eastern Orthodox world in the following centuries. A fire in 1833 destroyed almost all buildings, which were made out of wood. The buildings were swiftly restored by Bulgarian craftsmen and got their current appearance.

Community Perspective: The setting of the main monastery is awe-inspiring and the frescoes are colourful. The four related sites so far have been mostly unreviewed, although Nan managed to hike to Saint Ivan’s cave. He also has provided public transport tips.

Site Info

Official Information
Full Name
Rila Monastery (ID: 216)
Country
Bulgaria
Status
Inscribed 1983 Site history
History of Rila Monastery
1983: Inscribed
Inscribed
Type
Cultural
Criteria
  • vi
Links
UNESCO
whc.unesco.org
Official
All Links
UNESCO.org
Official Website

Community Information

  • Community Category
  • Religious structure: Christian
Travel Information
Western Bulgaria Hotspot
Western Bulgaria Hotspot
117km / 3h by one direct bus a day

See www.worldheritagesite.org

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