Mode of transport: Bus
Duration: 1 day
Route: Sofia - Plovdiv - Krastova Gora – Bachkovo Monastery - Plovdiv - Sofia
Departure from Sofia, Serdika Bus Station at 7:00 AM; OMV at Tsarigradsko Shosse Blvd., Mladost 1 at 7:10 AM; from Plovdiv, OMV gas station in front of Hotel Saint Petersburg at 9:00 AM, heading towards Asenovgrad for Krastova Gora.
In the Middle Rhodopes, surrounded by beautiful nature, lies the “Holy Trinity” Monastery - Krastova Gora, or as marked on the map of Bulgaria, Krastov Vrah.
In recent years, the monastery has gained wide popularity among Orthodox Christians in Bulgaria as a Christian shrine and pilgrimage site. This area, at an altitude of 1545 meters above sea level, is about 500 meters long and 300 meters wide, and is a round glade surrounded by dense beech forests. From here, the panoramic view is breathtaking, with a sea of mountain ridges and peaks visible in the distance.
In the afternoon, visit to Bachkovo Monastery, founded in the 11th century. It has played an important role over the years, and today Bachkovo Monastery is the second largest and most significant in Bulgaria.
The monastery has three churches, an ossuary, and a refectory. The main church houses one of the miraculous icons of the Holy Virgin in Bulgaria. Departure at 4:00 PM for Sofia.
Arrival at Trimontium Hotel at 7:00 PM and at Central Railway Station around 9:00 PM.
The price includes:
Transportation by licensed bus
Tour guide service in Bulgarian
The price does not include:
Personal expenses
Food
Payment: Full payment for the excursion is required upon booking.
Note: The agency reserves the right to change the order of the program. Children under 18 years of age must travel with an accompanying adult. Minimum number of tourists for the program to take place: 30 people. Notification deadline in case of insufficient participants: 2 days before the departure date.
Krastova Gora and Bachkovo Monastery – Sacred Places in the Heart of the Rhodopes
Bulgaria is renowned for its unique monasteries and sacred sites, which are not only religious and cultural centers but also offer visitors stunning natural beauty and spiritual experiences. Two of the most famous and revered landmarks in the Rhodope Mountains are Krastova Gora and Bachkovo Monastery. These are places that attract thousands of pilgrims and tourists, seeking peace, inspiration, and sacred moments surrounded by nature.
Krastova Gora – The Sacred and Peaceful Place in the Heart of the Rhodopes
Krastova Gora, located at an altitude of 1545 meters in the Middle Rhodopes, is one of the most significant shrines in Bulgaria. This place, also known as Krastov Vrah, is not only a natural landmark but also a spiritual sanctuary for Christians. In recent years, the "Holy Trinity" Monastery in Krastova Gora has gained popularity as a Christian shrine and pilgrimage site, attracting thousands of believers and tourists.
The nature surrounding Krastova Gora is breathtaking, with dense beech forests and fresh air. The site is a small, circular glade, surrounded by nature, providing tranquility and seclusion. From here, there is a stunning panoramic view of the mountain ridges and peaks of the Rhodopes. The place is known for its spiritual significance, with many people claiming that Krastova Gora has gathered positive energy and peace, which helps everyone who seeks comfort and answers to their questions.
Bachkovo Monastery – The Second Most Significant Spiritual Center in Bulgaria
After visiting Krastova Gora, another fascinating site that deserves attention in the region is Bachkovo Monastery. Founded in the 11th century by Georgian monks, it is the second largest and most important monastery in Bulgaria. It is located in the valley of the Chaya River, about 10 km from Asenovgrad and 30 km from Plovdiv.
Bachkovo Monastery is not only a significant religious site but also a cultural and historical monument. It is home to three churches, an ossuary, and a refectory. The most valuable element of the monastery is the main church, which houses one of Bulgaria's miraculous icons of the Holy Virgin. This icon is famous for the many miracles attributed to its supernatural power. Besides the icon, the monastery is also known for its preserved frescoes and historical archives that reflect significant moments in Bulgarian history.
Throughout the centuries, Bachkovo Monastery has played a key role in preserving the Orthodox faith and Bulgarian cultural identity. The monks in the monastery provided spiritual support to the local population, and the monastery was a center for education and scholarship during the Ottoman Empire.
Krastova Gora and Bachkovo Monastery are not only religious but also cultural and natural symbols of Bulgaria. They combine ancient traditions, majestic landscapes, and deep spirituality. By visiting these sacred places, one not only immerses themselves in Bulgaria's history but also finds inner peace and harmony. Whether you are a believer or simply a lover of nature and culture, these landmarks are a must-see for anyone who wants to discover the true essence of Bulgaria.