Rila Monastery is the largest, the most beautiful and the most significant among all Bulgarian monasteries, founded in 10th c. by the Bulgarian saint Ivan Rilski (John of Rila) and built by his students in order to be close to their master and preserve their knowledge afterward. It is situated right in the center of the Balkan Peninsula among the rocky peaks and ancient pine forests of Rila mountain. It is for a reason a unique symbol of Bulgaria you definitely have to see on your journey in the country. One of its buildings - the Hrelyo’s tower is the oldest monastery surviving building in the country and the legends say that this is only because of the priest's prayers that lasted there and their spiritual energy. This holy place can’t be described only with words, but has to be felt with all your inner senses.
This is the atmosphere created by old monastery architecture, combined with the fresh mountain air and sparkling streams of the rivers Rilska and Drushlyavitsaa. Not far away from the Monastery(can be taken by car), about 3-4 km easy walking distance, passing by perfect meadows for picnics, there is first the prayer rock where the saint was praying and after a short climb for 15-20 minutes, the cave itself, where the saint himself lived. It is open to tourists and it is said that only people with pure souls can pass through it while viewing the humble abode of a saint.
Currency fluctuations might cause correction of price at any time.
Tour: Iraqi Kurdistan
★★★★★
My recent trip in Iraq organized by Penguin was excellent from start to end. Both Penguin tour guide (Nessi) and the local guide (Fahad) managed all topics efficiently and facilitated an amazing experience for the group. Now I dream about visiting the Northern part of the country, too.
Tour: Socotra Island Adventures (Yemen)
★★★★★
Thanks for everything in terms of your work and help with this trip to Yemen. It was an amazing experience - one I would recommend to almost anyone. By the numbers of people who travelled to the island, it is only going to get more exposure. The local company was very good - so you can have no problems with them at all. I was really lucky though - there were only 2 of us on the trip - and it was a really nice experience. I will continue to work with Penguin in getting ideas for great places to travel.
Tour: Caucasus Explorer
★★★★★
Interesting trip in a different part of the world. with a possibility to learn a lot. Visit to spectacular churches and monastries, museums, wine producers, nature and beautiful cities. This tour is recommended.
30.05.2023 13:30
Isfahan, a city steeped in rich history and unparalleled beauty, stands as a testament to the grandeur of Persian civilization. Located in central Iran, Isfahan boasts a mesmerizing blend of architectural marvels, vibrant bazaars, and serene gardens that have captivated travelers for centuries. With its UNESCO-listed landmarks, such as the majestic Imam Square and the stunning Shah Mosque,...
29.05.2023 14:55
Kenya, a land of breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife, holds an array of hidden gems for travelers seeking unforgettable experiences. Among these treasures lies the captivating Lake Nakuru, a mesmerizing waterbody nestled within the Great Rift Valley. Renowned for its abundant birdlife and stunning scenery, Lake Nakuru National Park offers a captivating blend of natural wonders and...
24.05.2023 16:26
Nestled in the heart of Yemen, the city of Shibam stands as a living testament to the ingenuity and architectural marvels of ancient civilizations. Renowned as "the Manhattan of the desert," Shibam boasts a skyline of towering mud-brick skyscrapers, capturing the essence of Yemen's rich history and cultural heritage. Shibam, located in the Wadi Hadramaut region, is a UNESCO World...
22.05.2023 13:45
Machu Picchu, nestled high in the Andes Mountains of Peru, is an ancient city that continues to captivate travelers from around the world. This iconic UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its breathtaking beauty and mysterious history. In this article, we will uncover 20 intriguing facts about Machu Picchu, shedding light on its significance and allure. Discovery and Rediscovery Machu...