Things to Do in Bulgaria

One of the most well-known landmarks in Sofia, the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral was built to commemorate the 200,000 Russian soldiers who died in the Russo-Turkish War, fighting for Bulgaria’s independence. Completed in 1924, it was named after a medieval Russian ruler, Prince Alexander Nevsky of Novgorod, and modeled after Russian neo-Byzantine churches.

The exterior of the cathedral is made of pale Bulgarian limestone, and it is topped with gold-plated domes. Inside, you will find hundreds of flickering candles illuminating a decadent interior. Look for the Mosaic of Christ, Tsar Ferdinand’s throne, the iconostasis made of marble, onyx and alabaster and the many frescoes covering the church’s dome. Head down to the crypt to visit the cathedral’s Icon gallery, which features icons from 12th through 19th centuries and boasts the most impressive collection of religious art in Bulgaria.

The three historic buildings that make up the medieval Bulgarian Orthodox icon known as Boyana Church have been attracting visitors for over a hundred years. Each building was constructed in a distinctly different architectural style reflective of the time, taste and period it was created, making a visit to this famous landmark a truly unique experience.

The eastern church, Boyana’s oldest section, is one of the smallest, while the second section, built in the mid-13 century, is a two-floor wonder with tombs, semi-cylindrical vault and quiet family chapel. The final section of the church, which wasn’t built until the 19th century, showcases some of the most contemporary designs. Travelers agree that the architecture and history make Boyana Church a destination, but it’s the 89 frescos with 240 human images painstakingly painted onto interior walls that have placed Boyana at the intersection of religion and art in Bulgaria.

The well-preserved Bachkovo Monastery is tucked into the hillside of Asenovgrad alongside the scenic Chepelare River. It’s the perfect destination for travelers looking for a natural escape from Plovdiv or Sofia. Its peaceful beauty and quiet spaces for reflection have drawn visitors to its gates since it was built in 1083.

The monastery grounds include an original ossuary, decorated with ancient frescos and a home to a first floor burial crypt; a cathedral, which houses a statue of the Virgin Mary Eleusa and attracts pilgrims to pray her feet; the Archangels’ Church covered in paintings by Joan Mosch; and an expansive garden tended by monks who still live and work on the monastery today. The small but impressive museum at Bachkovo has an extensive collection of religious artifacts, wood carvings and old-school frescos that’s worth checking out.