Neofit Rilski House-Museum: A Glimpse into Bulgarian Revival

The Neofit Rilski House-Museum, also known as the Benin House, is located next to the Holy Trinity Church in the old town of Bansko. This 18th-century house provides insight into the life and work of Neofit Rilski (1793-1881), a prominent Bulgarian educator, scholar, and cleric who played a vital role in the Bulgarian National Revival. The house itself is an example of traditional Bansko architecture, featuring fortified house elements with thick stone walls and a sturdy wooden gate. The ground floor reveals hidden chambers used as refuge during turbulent times, alongside functional spaces. The second floor features living quarters, a monastery school where Neofit Rilski taught, and an anteroom. A veranda connects the house to farm buildings. The museum displays chronologically arranged materials that showcase Neofit Rilski's contributions to Bulgarian society. Highlights include the first Bulgarian grammar book compiled in 1835, excerpts from his Greek-Bulgarian dictionary, and books from his personal library. Visitors can explore artifacts, manuscripts, and personal belongings that highlight his life and work. The museum offers information in multiple languages. Neofit Rilski, born Nikola Poppetrov Benin, was a man of diverse talents. He was a monk, teacher, artist, architect, musician, and poet. He is considered a patriarch of Bulgarian enlightenment, founder of Bulgarian secular education, and the first Bulgarian encyclopedist.