Strazhitsa to Rila Monastery

Strazhitsa to Rila Monastery

The Rila Monastery is one of the most important cultural and historical monuments in Bulgaria. It is located in the Rila Mountains, about 120 km southeast of Sofia. The monastery was founded in the 10th century by the hermit Ivan Rilski. It has been expanded and rebuilt several times over the centuries, and the current buildings date from the 19th century.

The Rila Monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a popular tourist destination, and visitors can explore the monastery's churches, chapels, and museums. There are also several hiking trails in the surrounding mountains.

Language

The official language of Bulgaria is Bulgarian. However, English is widely spoken in tourist areas, including the Rila Monastery.

Currency

The official currency of Bulgaria is the Bulgarian lev (BGN). Euros and US dollars are also accepted in many places.

Distance

The distance from Strazhitsa to the Rila Monastery is about 200 km. The journey takes about 3 hours by car.

How to Reach

The best way to reach the Rila Monastery from Strazhitsa is by car. There are also several buses and trains that run from Sofia to the monastery.

Expenses

The cost of visiting the Rila Monastery is 10 BGN (about 5 euros). This includes admission to the monastery and the museums.

Best time to go

The best time to visit the Rila Monastery is during the spring or fall. The weather is mild during these seasons, and the monastery is less crowded.

What to Eat

There are several restaurants and cafes in the Rila Monastery. Visitors can enjoy traditional Bulgarian dishes, such as banitsa (a type of cheese pie), Shopska salad, and kebapcheta (grilled minced meat). There are also several vegetarian and vegan options available.

Where to Go

In addition to the monastery itself, there are several other places to visit in the area. Visitors can hike in the surrounding mountains, visit the nearby town of Blagoevgrad, or explore the Rila Lakes.

FAQ

• What are the opening hours of the Rila Monastery?
  The Rila Monastery is open every day from 8am to 5pm.
• Is there a dress code for visiting the Rila Monastery?
  Yes, visitors are expected to dress modestly. This means covering their shoulders and knees.
• Can I stay overnight at the Rila Monastery?
  Yes, there are several guesthouses in the monastery. Visitors can book a room in advance or on arrival.