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Rila Monastery Tour from Sofia - Lunch, Wine Tasting & The Unique Stob Pyramids

Rila, BG
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Rila Monastery Tour from Sofia - Lunch, Wine Tasting & The Unique Stob Pyramids

Rila, BG
Share
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Embark on a captivating journey through Bulgarian history and culture with the Rila Monastery Tour from Sofia. As part of the UNESCO World Heritage List, the Rila Monastery stands as a testament to the country's rich heritage and architectural brilliance. Delve into the artistic history of the church's frescoes and woodcarving, unraveling the hidden symbolism behind its majestic elements. Led by an art historian, you will gain a unique perspective on the monastery's cultural and religious significance. After exploring the monastery, venture into the wild forest to visit the original cave settlement of St. Ivan Rilski, immersing yourself in the mystical stories surrounding its foundation. On the way back to Sofia, marvel at the breathtaking Stob pyramids, a natural wonder that will leave you awe-inspired. This tour promises a blend of history, art, and nature, a truly unforgettable experience for any traveler.

About this experience

  • Free Cancellation For a full refund cancel at least before the start of your booking
  • 8 hours
  • Suitable for 2-7 Participants
  • Private Tour, Small Group Tour
  • Guided Experience
  • Visit the most important monastery in Bulgaria
  • Learn about the formation of Bulgarian identity and culture
  • Discover the artistic history of the church's frescoes and woodcarving
  • Experience the magnificent view of the Stob pyramids
  • Walk around the famous Stone Pyramids of Stob village
  • Lunch
  • Wine Tasting
  • Professional Guide Services
  • Private Transportation
  • Gratuities
  • Entrance Fees Rila Monastery Museum and Hrelyo Tower
  • Personal Expenses

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More about this experience

Introduction

Experience the rich cultural heritage of Bulgaria on the Rila Monastery Tour from Sofia. This tour takes you to the renowned Rila Monastery, an important symbol of Bulgarian identity and culture. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, the monastery showcases magnificent architecture and stunning frescoes. Your knowledgeable guide, an art historian, will provide fascinating insights into the history and symbolism behind the intricate woodcarvings and artistic elements of the complex. On the way back to Sofia, you'll also have the opportunity to marvel at the natural wonder of the Stob pyramids, a breathtaking phenomenon that attracts visitors from all over the world.

What to expect?

During the Rila Monastery Tour, you can expect to immerse yourself in Bulgarian history and culture. Explore the impressive Rila Monastery, admiring its architectural beauty and learning about its significance to the country. Marvel at the intricate frescoes and woodcarvings that reveal hidden symbolism and stories. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely walk around the unique Stob pyramids, taking in the awe-inspiring natural formations. This tour offers a perfect blend of history, art, and natural beauty, providing a memorable and enriching experience.

Who is this for?

This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, art lovers, and nature admirers alike. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or exploring Bulgaria for the first time, the Rila Monastery Tour offers something for everyone. If you're interested in learning about Bulgarian culture and heritage, this tour is a must. The inclusion of wine tasting and a delicious lunch also adds an extra touch of indulgence, making it a great choice for those seeking a well-rounded and unique experience.

Why book this?

Book the Rila Monastery Tour for a captivating journey through Bulgaria's rich history and culture. With a knowledgeable guide who is an art historian, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the monastery's significance and the stories behind its intricate artwork. The opportunity to explore the Stob pyramids adds an element of natural beauty to the tour, making it a well-rounded and visually stunning experience. Additionally, the inclusion of a wine tasting and a delicious lunch ensures that you'll be treated to a memorable culinary experience alongside your cultural exploration.

Good to know

When booking the Rila Monastery Tour, keep in mind that entrance fees to the Rila Monastery Museum and Hrelyo Tower are not included. It's also advisable to bring some extra cash for personal expenses and gratuities. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring the monastery and the Stob pyramids. Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning architecture and natural beauty you'll encounter on this tour.

Reviews

Travelers who have embarked on the Rila Monastery Tour have raved about the knowledgeable guides who provide fascinating insights into Bulgarian history and culture. Visitors were particularly impressed by the stunning frescoes and woodcarvings at the monastery, with many describing them as breathtaking and a true testament to the country's artistic heritage. The Stob pyramids also left a lasting impression on travelers, who were amazed by the natural beauty of this geological wonder. Overall, reviews highlight the Rila Monastery Tour as a must-do experience for those visiting Bulgaria, offering a perfect combination of history, art, and natural beauty.

How long before the event do I need to book?

  • You can book at any time before the event

Vouchers accepted in the following formats

  • Mobile

Is an adult required for the booking?

  • At least one adult or senior required per booking

Your Itinerary

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.

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.

Stob 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.

2024-04-25 09:16