In his sermon, Bishop Evlogi emphasized the significance of the event, when the Lord Jesus Christ was baptized in the Jordan River by St. John the Baptist, stating:
"Today, the heavens open. May God hear our prayers—prayers tied to virtues and good deeds. Let us reflect on this great mystery: God shows His favor to us from the heavens and sent His Only Begotten Son, whom we must follow on the path to salvation."
Following the Great Blessing of Water, a liturgical procession proceeded to the bridge over the Rila River, where, according to tradition, the cross was thrown into the waters. This year, the cross was retrieved by a man from Blagoevgrad named Blagovest, who received a blessing from the abbot and a monetary reward.
The celebration unfolded with a spirit of reverence and inspiration, reminding all attendees of the importance of faith, virtues, and preserving nature as a divine gift.
Global Tour invites you to visit the Rila Monastery—a sacred place preserving the spirit of Orthodox tradition and the beauty of Bulgarian nature.
Every year, the streets and squares of Venice transform into the stage for one of the most famous and captivating events in the world – the Venice Carnival. A blend of tradition, art, and mysterious charm, this celebration enchants visitors with its magnificent costumes, exquisite masks, and an atmosphere reminiscent of the era of Venetian nobility.
Nestled in the heart of the Sredna Gora mountain range, Koprivshtitsa is one of Bulgaria’s most picturesque and authentic towns, preserving the spirit of the Bulgarian National Revival. Every stone and street here tells tales of Bulgaria’s heroic past, while the colorful houses with their distinctive architecture give the town a unique charm.
The Glozhene Monastery "St. George the Victorious" is one of the most picturesque monasteries in Bulgaria. Nestled on a high cliff in the Balkan Mountains, near the village of Glozhene, it offers not only spiritual enrichment but also breathtaking views, making it a favored destination for tourists and pilgrims alike.
The Rozhen Monastery "Nativity of the Virgin Mary" is one of the oldest and best-preserved monasteries in Bulgaria. Located in the heart of the Pirin Mountains, near the village of Rozhen and just a few kilometers from the town of Melnik, this spiritual center attracts thousands of tourists and pilgrims every year.
The Rhodope Mountains are a place where every corner is a treasure, and every breath makes you feel the magic of nature. This mountain is not just a geographic spot on the map but a true world of wonders, inspiring with endless landscapes, history, and traditions.
In the heart of Bulgaria's old capital, Veliko Tarnovo, lies one of the most impressive show spectacles in the world – Sound and Light. This incredible performance brings to life the dramatic history of the Second Bulgarian Empire through music, lights, and the ringing of bells.
Dubai is an iconic shopping destination that attracts millions of tourists annually with its luxurious shopping malls, traditional markets, and duty-free zones. The city is a true paradise for shopping enthusiasts, combining modern opulence with authentic Arabian traditions. Here are the most popular items tourists love to buy in Dubai:
The Seven Rila Lakes are one of Bulgaria's most remarkable natural treasures, attracting thousands of visitors every year. They are a group of glacial lakes located in the northwestern part of the Rila Mountains, situated at an altitude between 2,100 and 2,500 meters. The lakes are arranged in a step-like formation and are interconnected by small streams and waterfalls.
The Rila Monastery is not only the largest and most renowned monastery in Bulgaria but also a sacred site that combines history, spirituality, and natural beauty. Nestled in the heart of the Rila Mountains, this architectural masterpiece is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Bulgarian cultural and religious heritage. Visiting the monastery is a unique experience that will take you to a world of peace, inspiration, and timeless values.
The Rila Monastery offers the opportunity to perform the Holy Sacrament of Baptism every day of the year without prior registration.
The Rila Monastery offers daily worship services, including evening and morning prayers with the Divine Liturgy. For most of the year, services are held in the central monastery church, "Nativity of the Virgin Mary." During the winter months, due to weather conditions, services are moved to the monastery chapel, "Nativity of Christ," located near the monastery bookstore in the courtyard.
The Kukeri Festival in Simitli is one of the most colorful and impressive events in Bulgaria, attracting thousands of participants and spectators every year. Traditionally held in early January, the festival celebrates local customs aimed at driving away evil spirits and welcoming the new year with hopes for prosperity, health, and abundance.
Thessaloniki, Greece's second-largest city, is a captivating blend of history, culture, and modern life. Located on the Aegean coast, this vibrant city offers a rich tapestry of experiences for every traveler.
Nestled at the foot of the majestic Rila Mountains, Borovets is Bulgaria’s oldest and most popular mountain resort. Renowned for its pristine nature, thrilling ski slopes, and year-round activities, Borovets offers an unforgettable escape for adventure seekers, families, and nature lovers alike.
Nestled in the heart of the Rila Mountains, the Rila Monastery is a true gem of Bulgaria's cultural and spiritual heritage. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983, this iconic landmark is not only a symbol of faith but also a testament to the enduring spirit of the Bulgarian people.