Rila Monastery is the best known monastery in Bulgaria. And it is justly famed for its architectural beauty, historical and religious importance. Having played a major role in Orthodox Christianity since the Middle Ages, Rila Monastery still continues to do so, as nowadays it receives a perpetual stream of visitors just like the pilgrims in the old days. Settled in the valley of Rilska river in Rila mountains, Rila monastery will enchant you with the harmonious beauty of its interior with bold red stripes and black-and-white patterned facade, impressive arches around the monastic cells and the flag-stoned courtyard, the Hrelyo’s tower – the sole survived building from the 14th century. Rila Moanstery is easily accessible from the capital Sofia and its international airport via the main southbound route towards Greece. The transfer time from Sofia/airport is approximately 2 hours, while the transfer from the ski resort of Bansko is one hour and a half.
