Exterior wall of Rila Monastery, Bulgaria. Photo © Evelyn Weliver
And so in the 10th century, John of Rila gave his blessing to Brother Gregory and a handful of monks to start Rila Monastery. ... Within a few centuries, this holy place designed to save men's souls would save their country's heritage.
Read MoreThe snow capped Rila Mountains welcome us into the historic, religious center of Bulgaria--Rila Monastery, the largest monastery in the Balkans. Even though it is hidden in the mountains, it has been overcome by bandits and Ottoman Turks, but
Read MoreImages and content are copyrighted. Please email me for permission to use (see About tab). Thank you. All rights reserved.