Rila Bulgaria - Travel Guide, Tours, Hotels and Photos - Pictures of Bulgaria

The small town of Rila is often called “the doorstep to the Rila monastery” as it is situated just a couple of kilometers away from the most famous monastery in Bulgaria. The town lies in the skirts of the Rila mountain, nestling on the two banks of the Rilska river.

Apart from the Rila monastery, which is no doubt the biggest architectural sight in the region, Rila’s citizens are also proud with their nature, rich history and several places of interest in the town and its surroundings. One of these is a Renaissance-time architectural ensemble, called Babinska Mahala, which lies within the boundaries of the town. Here, one can enjoy the sight of old, but well preserved houses built in the traditional style of the Bulgarian Renaissance period. Another place of interest is the old St Archangel Michael church which keeps valuable frescoes of the 12-13th c. This church is one of few remaining cross-domed, square-shaped churches in Bulgaria. Two kilometers outside the town, one can visit the Orlitsa convent and light a candle in its St Peter and Pavel church, dating back to the 14th c.