The monastery is between the Rilska and Drushliavitsa rivers and about 120km south of Sofia so we figured we had to go a little out of our way to see it. It is the largest monastery in Bulgaria. It was founded in the 10th century.
I read that its name comes from the first Bulgarian hermit who was a monk named John Rilski. He was revered as a saint while he was still alive. He was called the wondermaker. There are stories of wild animals walking along side of him and birds landing in the palms of his hands.
The monastery was absolutely beautiful. So unique.
marschmadness 