Weekend Idea: Klisura Monastery
Even if you don’t like “religious” tourism, we guarantee that the Klisura Monastery “St. Petka” above Bankya is not a bad idea. It is near to Sofia, and the area around is not reminiscent of the fast pace and crowded streets of the capital. A great alternative to the very “exploited” Vitosha.
Where is the monastery?
It is located between the village of Klisura and the town of Bankya near to Sofia, as we mentioned. It is on the top of a hill at the foot of the beautiful Lyulin Mountain. From the opposite meadow there is a view of Cherni Vrah, in addition there is a wonderful pine grove where you can cool off from the heat in summer.
History of the temple
The place has a special charm. The building impresses with an interesting facade, and in the courtyard of the monastery there is a beautiful flower garden, usually full of quite “friendly” butterflies.
The history of the monastery dates back to the 13th century, when it was the center of a large number of monasteries. Five centuries after its construction, it was renovated, and in the 20th century it was rebuilt by several Russian nuns. At that time, however, the monastery church “St. Petka Tarnovska” collapsed and had to be rebuilt. It was renovated in 1954 and painted by a Russian monk.
In the new century in the yard of the monastery was built an elegant and spacious church-rotunda. Much of the monastery is covered with external murals of bright colors that impress every visitor.
Legends
According to the legend, Tsar Ivan Asen II requested that the relics of St. Petka of Bulgaria be transferred to the capital Turnovo. However, the liturgical procession with her relics stopped for a rest near the present Klisura monastery and then became a real miracle. It is said that the place was illuminated by the incorruptible body of St. Petka and therefore the locals built a church there and later a monastery.
How to get to the monastery?
From Art Hotel Simona you can reach the Klisura Monastery by bus number 49 (from the metro station Konstantin Velichkov). From the last stop you will have to take a short walk – across the signs up through the pasture or left along the bike path on an easier route.
Of course, the easier option is by car. If you choose this one, it is best to turn on the GPS navigation or at the first roundabout in Bankya (at the entrance from Sofia) turn right and then follow the signs again.
