Two of the most sacred places in Bulgaria

Located in inaccessible areas and surrounded by impressive mountains, Bulgarian monasteries have played during centuries a significant liturgical, cultural and educational role. Monasteries have been continuously destroyed but managed to keep their secrets and continue the tradition of cultural and educational centers.

Situated 10 km from the city of Troyan on picturesque area and surrounded by forest, Troyan Monastery is one of the most sacred places in Bulgaria and is also a great historical monument of national importance. The monastery is situated on the foot of the mountain and has its own spirit.

The monastery and the beautiful gardens.

The courtyard brings spiritual and magical impressions.

The church built in 19^th century with the amazing paintings inside and outside is a beautiful and spiritual place.

Inside is the holy icon of Mother Mary with three hands, which according to the legend has been brought up from Athon Monastery. This sacred piece of art attracts people from the whole country who make pilgrimage to this monastery.

The monastery is also related to the Bulgarian history and here the Bulgarian revolutionary Vasil Levski was hiding during the Ottoman period and formed a revolutionary committee.

I visited the monastery in a sunny summer day and enjoyed a lot the gorgeous sceneries and the beautiful construction.

The residential area of the monastery with great views and the spectacular landscapes.

After enjoying the spirituality and the breathtaking views I relaxed over a cup of coffee and a tasty slice of cake in one of the restaurants close to the monastery. The sun was already lower in the sky and casted wonderfully soft lights while I continued my trip to the next destination.

Another interesting mountain monastery to visit is Glozhene, located close to the town of Teteven. The monastery is surrounded by mountain ranges and steep cliffs. According to a legend, the monastery was founded by prince George Glozh, who, chased by Tatars, moved to this part of the Balkan mountains.

The road to the monastery is steep and narrow, surrounded by forest and suddenly the monastery appears in all its beauty.

The monastery magnificently rises above the cliff and overlooking a forest.

The monastery consists of a church and residential buildings and is closely related to several memorable moments of the Bulgarian history. The monastery was also visited by Vasil Levski who spent 9 months here.

Peaceful, quiet and well-maintained, Troyan and Glozhene monasteries are highly recommendable places to visit.