Gorna Oriahovitsa Monastery is a monument of culture of national importance since 1937.

The monastery was founded in the 13th century. It saw destruction during the Ottoman reign.

Scientists began researching the area in the early 20th century. Excavations revealed the foundation of the monastery’s church. Another interesting discovery is a Virgin Mary icon dating back to the 16th century.

Monastery renovation took place after locals managed to collect sufficient amount of funds. Work ended in 1938 and the church started functioning in 1940.

A bell was purchased one year later. The church wall paintings appeared in the 70s of the 20th century.

Only one nun is responsible for the monastery today. The complex offers peaceful and calm atmosphere, away from urban life.

Gorna Oriahovitsa is a member of an international ecological movement. Since 1995, the church bell of the monastery rings on October 24 and 25 to remind people that the Earth must be protected.

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Ouspenie Bogorodichno, or Sokolski Monastery, is situated 12 km away from the town of Gabrovo and four km away from the ethnographic complex of Etura.

According to historians, the monastery appeared in 1833. According to others, a monastery existed in the region before that period but underwent renovations in the 30s of the 19th century.

A priest named Pavel and his son Nikolai created the church paintings. Other artists worked on it later on. The richness of styles shows that a number of revival period painters worked there.

Sokolski Monastery has an exceptionally beautiful fountain, created in 1868 by famous Bulgarian craftsman Koliu Ficheto.

In 1959, the monastery became a convent. Nuns brought valuable relics and beautiful icons.

The road leading to the monastery is in good condition. Sokolski Monastery offers accommodation.

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Dryanovo Monastery is situated, as its name suggests, near Dryanovo. It is located 215 km away from Sofia. The monastery’s official name is St. Archangel Michael.

The monastery was probably created during the Second Bulgarian Kingdom. It was destroyed and built again several times. The buildings that can be still seen today were constructed in the 17th century.

Dryanovo Monastery played an important role during Bulgaria’s liberation struggles. It often gave revolutionaries like Vasil Levski shelter.

Accommodation is possible in the monastery. Several restaurants nearby also welcome guests.

To learn more about Dryanovo Monastery click here.