It is the largest Orthodox monastery in the Pirin Mountains and one of the few well-preserved medieval monasteries in the country. Most likely it was built in the 13th century, although according to local legend its history dates back to the 9th century. In the monastery church you can see historic 16th-century frescoes.
The monastery was destroyed several times. The most serious damage took place during a fire in the 17th century. Most of the monastery buildings, including the entire library, were damaged then. It was restored in the next century, and in the 19th century the monastery became the regional center of the Orthodox Church.
A church built in 1912-1914 is located 200 meters from the main part of the complex. He served Bulgarian exarchists who were not allowed to stay in the monastery. Its construction was initiated by the revolutionary Yane Sandanski, who is considered the national hero of Bulgaria and Macedonia. His grave is right next to the temple.
Attractions inside
