Exploring Bulgaria's UNESCO treasures

One of the symbols of Bulgaria, the Rila Monastery was founded in the 10th century and is the largest monastery in the country. It was included in the UNESCO List of Global Cultural Heritage in 1983. The monastery is located in the heart of the Rila mountain and has been the guardian of the Christian faith and Bulgarian education and culture since its founding. By far, this is one of the most visited religious sites in Bulgaria.

The Rila Monastery

The Boyana church is located at the foot of Vitosha mountain, right outside the capital city of Sofia. This unique temple was built in stages, beginning in the 10th century, then the 13th century and finished in the 19th century. The architecture of the building is remarkable, but the real treasure of the church are the 240 wall paintings dating back to 1259. They are recognized globally and have earned this location its position on the UNESCO World Heritage list.

The Boyana Church

The Sveshtari Tomb is one of the most impressive and well-preserved Thracian tombs in Bulgaria. It is located in the Sboryanovo Historical and Archaeological Reserve near the village of Sveshtari, Isperih. The tomb was built in the 3rd century BC. Historians believe that the Thracian ruler Dromichaetes was buried there. The site has unique architecture and decoration. Ten statues of women (caryatids) with raised hands support the ceiling, as if they are performing a ritual dance. The tomb was discovered in 1982. It was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List three years later.

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The Thracian Tomb of Sveshtari

Open the 3D scene on mozaBook to find out more about caryatids.