Rila Monastery Tour from SOFIA & The Unique Stob Pyramids

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8 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: German and 5 more

Take this trip to discover the most important monastery in Bulgaria and learn about its role in the formation of Bulgarian identity and culture throughout the 19th century. The Rila Monastery is part of the UNESCO World Heritage List along with eight other monuments in the country and represents the most outstanding architectural ensemble in Bulgaria. Your guide will give you a unique perspective on the artistic history of the church's frescoes and woodcarving, revealing the symbolism hiding behind the majestic architectural elements of the complex and their meaning. On our way back to Sofia, you will have time to relax and enjoy the magnificent view of the Stob pyramids, one of the most amazing natural phenomena on the territory of Bulgaria.

What's Included

Lunch
Professional Guide Services
Private Transportation
Entrance Fees Rila Monastery Museum and Hrelyo Tower
Personal Expenses
Gratuities

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

Your guide will meet you with a sign TEMPORA TRAVEL!

OR
Meeting point

Your guide will meet you in front of the Cathedral carrying a sign TEMPORA TRAVEL.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 8 hours (approximately)
  • 1
    Rila Monastery

    We will start our walk with the monastery complex, visiting the Museum housing, the five-domed church dedicated to the Virgin and the ancient Hrelyo Tower. Your leader, who is an art historian herself, will show you the unique cultural and religious nature of the place from an entirely different perspective. You will see how this fantastic architecture combines elements from two very distinctive cultures. Furthermore, you will get the chance to see the most adorned artifact in the monastery – a double-sided wooden cross made by the local monk Raphael – an exquisite piece of woodcarving and artistry.

    1 hour • Admission ticket not included
  • 2
    Cave of St.Ivan Rilski

    For the enthusiasts who would like to feel the fresh air of the wild forest, we will take a walk on a small alley in the woods, reaching the original cave settlement of St. Ivan Rilski, whose name bears the monetary itself. There you will hear the mystical stories about his life and the history of the foundation of the sanctuary. Inside the cave, you will be challenged by an old legend so be prepared to test your physical and mental skills.

    1 hour • Admission ticket free
  • 3
    Stob's Pyramids

    Our way to Sofia runs by the famous Stone Pyramids of Stob village - a natural phenomenon which attracts visitors from all over the world. Enjoy a walking tour around the rocks and some free time to relax and drink your afternoon cup of tea or coffee.

    1 hour • Admission ticket not included

Additional info

  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by Tempora Travel Day Tours Bulgaria & The Balkans

Tags

Day Trips
Full-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private and Luxury
Private Sightseeing Tours
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Religious Tours
Car Tours
Zombie
Zombie Slice

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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