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Aladzha Monastery: A Medieval Cave Monastery

Discover the ancient Aladzha Monastery near Varna, a unique cave monastery with rich history and stunning natural surroundings.

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Aladzha Monastery, located near Varna, is a unique medieval cave monastery carved into a 40-meter high limestone rock. Inhabited by hermit monks during the 13th-14th centuries, it features a complex of cells, a church, and a refectory, offering a glimpse into monastic life of the past.

A brief summary to Чешма Аладжа манастир

  • 72C7+C6, Varna, Primorski, BG

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the rocky terrain and trails around the monastery.
  • Don't miss the small museum on site for a deeper understanding of the monastery's history.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Varna, take bus number 29 from the city center (near the Varna Cathedral) to the Aladzha Monastery bus stop. The bus ride takes approximately 30 minutes. From the bus stop, the monastery is a short walk away. A single bus fare costs around 1.00 BGN.

  • Taxi

    From Varna city center, a taxi ride to Aladzha Monastery takes approximately 17 minutes. Taxi services like Triumph Taxi, Omega Trans, or Hippo Taxi are available. The estimated cost is between $13 and $16 (approximately 24-30 BGN).

  • Driving

    If driving from Varna, head north towards Golden Sands. Before reaching Golden Sands, turn left at the sign for Aladzha Monastery. Follow the road to the monastery. Parking is available near the monastery for approximately 5 BGN per day.

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Discover more about Чешма Аладжа манастир

Aladzha Monastery, situated 14 km north of Varna and 2 km from Golden Sands resort, is a fascinating medieval cave monastery. Carved into a nearly 40-meter high limestone rock, the monastery is a cultural monument of national significance. The name "Aladzha," of Persian-Arabic origin, means "motley" or "colorful," likely referring to the vibrant frescoes that once adorned the monastery. The monastery complex is set on two levels. The first level houses the monastery church, monks' cells, refectory, kitchen, a small cemetery church, crypt (ossuary), and farm premises. The second level, a natural rock recess, contains the monastery chapel. About 600-700 meters west, you'll find a group of caves known as the Catacombs, believed to have been inhabited during the early Christian era (5th-6th centuries). Aladzha Monastery was inhabited by hermit monks during the 13th and 14th centuries, reaching its peak during the Second Bulgarian State under the influence of the Hesychastic movement. After the Ottoman conquest in the late 14th century, the monastery gradually declined and was likely abandoned by the 16th-17th centuries. The site has a museum built in the 1970s that displays the Monastery's history. Explore the ancient chambers, admire the intricate frescoes, and take in the panoramic views of the surrounding forested landscape.

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