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Bulgaria •
Rila Monastery
Rila Monastery is one of the greatest shrines of Bulgarian people. It is one of the oldest Orthodox monasteries, founded in the X-th century by monk Ivan Rilski (St.John of Rila)
Rila Monastery is one of the holiest shrines of the Bulgarian people. This is one of the oldest Orthodox monasteries, founded in the tenth century by the Bulgarian monk Ivan of Rila. It is located near Dupnitsa. In the 12-13 centuries the monastery was one of the most important centers of medieval Bulgarian culture. During the Ottoman domination, starting in the 15 th century, the monastery was abandoned, but later was restored. Today it is one of the most important Bulgarian monasteries, the world-famous monument of culture. The world-famous frescoes are especially valuable.The library of the monastery has 32 thousand of ancient books and manuscripts belonging to XI XIX centuries. The monastery is open for visitors.
About a dozen of monks live in the monastery today, although in old days 300 monks lived there. Historical museum of the Rila Monastery is located in the monastery courtyard. This small two-story museum is interesting by the collection of sacred objects used during worship. There are also beautiful icons and ancient weapons. One of the main exhibits is a wooden cross, made in the late XIX century. Monk Raphael cut out the cross for twelve years, and lost a vision after finishing.
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