Chiprovtsi Monastery is also known as St. Ivan Rilski and is located only five km away from Chiprovtsi and 30 km away from Montana.

The sanctuary has long and turbulent history. It was created in the 10th century and suffered six assaults. The sanctuary was destroyed almost entirely after the Chiprovtsi uprising in 1688.

The monastery complex consists of a church, residential premises, a tower, a chapel and a bell tower. The tower acts as an ossuary where the remains of Chiprovtsi uprising participants are preserved.

Pay special attention to the church and its beautiful exterior stone decorations.

Chiprovtsi Monastery offers no food or accommodation. It would be best to book your stay in the town of Chiprovtsi. To reach the sanctuary, take the road from Belimel to Zhelezna village and watch for the road diversion to Chiprovtsi Monastery.

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The natural rock cavities situated 25 km away from Vidin house Albotinski Monastery. The sanctuary is situated between the villages of Gradets and Rabovo.

Albotinski Monastery is easily accessible. A small path starting in the area of Haidouk fountain will take you there.

Archaeologists discovered 29 Christian graves in the area. The graves contain wall paintings and writings. The monastery complex itself is situated 25 km above the river. Albotinski Monastery’s church was used for prayers and masses.

Unfortunately, treasure hunters and vandals managed to destroy large parts of this landmark.

Today, Albotinski Monastery is inactive. It has been named a monument of culture.

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Klisourski Monastery St. St. Cyril and Methodius is situated in the region of Montana, close to the town of Vurshets.

The monastery was founded in the 13th century and was destroyed several times over the centuries. Today, it ranks as the fourth biggest monastery in the country and is an exceptionally beautiful place in the foot of Stara Planina’s Todorini Koukli peak.

Overall renovation of the complex took place in 1862. The monastery preserved its revival-period architecture. Wall paintings were created in 1937.

Apart from the church, the complex has a relatively new chapel.

Klisourski Monastery offers accommodation options. Prices vary from eight to 10 leva per night depending on the type of service selected. A restaurant functions alongside the monastery. Dishes there are prepared making use of monastery products.

To learn more about the monastery click here.