Welcome to
Sofia
Rila Monastery and Boyana Church Shuttle Tour
- Duration8h 30m
- Max Travelers15 people
- Free CancellationUp to 24 hrs
- CategoryAudio Guides, Bus Tours
Overview
Rila monastery shuttle will take you to Bulgaria’s most important and visited historical site and even more – two UNESCO places, amongst with Boyana church. Enjoy the wonderful frescoes from 19th century, representing the achievement of the Bulgarian Revival painting school, feel the amazing spirit of the largest monastery in the country, surrounded by the indescribable beauty of Rila mountain. V travel team will represent to you all the secrets of this place. In the afternoon we will visit Boyana church, where murals from 13th century will show you the majesty of the Bulgarian medieval country.
Gallery
What's included
English-speaking driver/guide
Transport by air-conditioned minivan
Online audio-guide in Eg, Fr, Sp, It, De, Rus (use with your smartphone & earphones)
What's Not included
Entrance fee for Boyana church
Food and drinks
Live Guide in Spanish, Italian, French - 100 u20ac per booking
Hotel pickup
Hotel drop-off
Itinerary
Rila Monastery was founded in the 10th century by St John of Rila, a hermit canonized by the Orthodox Church. His ascetic dwelling and tomb became a holy site and were transformed into a monastic complex which played an important role in the spiritual and social life of medieval Bulgaria. Destroyed by fire at the beginning of the 19th century, the complex was rebuilt between 1834 and 1862. A characteristic example of the Bulgarian Renaissance (18thu201319th centuries), the monument symbolizes the awareness of a Slavic cultural identity following centuries of occupation.
Located on the outskirts of Sofia, Boyana Church consists of three buildings. The eastern church was built in the 10th century, then enlarged at the beginning of the 13th century by Sebastocrator Kaloyan, who ordered a second two storey building to be erected next to it. The frescoes in this second church, painted in 1259, make it one of the most important collections of medieval paintings. The ensemble is completed by a third church, built at the beginning of the 19th century. This site is one of the most complete and perfectly preserved monuments of east European medieval art.
Good to know
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.