Rila Monastery is the largest, the most beautiful and the most important Bulgarian monastery, founded in 10th c. by the most honored Bulgarian saint Ivan Rilski (John of Rila). The oldest building is Hrelyo’s tower from 14th c. The monastery is situated among the rocky peaks and ancient pine forests of Rila Mountains.
The distance between Sofia and the monastery is 110 km and it takes about 2-hour drive to get there. Boyana church is famous for its proto Renaissance wall paintings from 13th c. It is situated in one of Sofia’s neighborhoods, so you can perfectly combine a visit to both the monastery and the church.