Tomb of Saint John of Rila

Tomb Rila, Kyustendil, Bulgaria

What to expect

The Tomb of Saint John of Rila, also known as the Cave of St. Ivan Rilski, is a significant cultural and historical site located near the Rila Monastery in Bulgaria. The cave is the burial place of Saint John of Rila, a revered Bulgarian saint who lived in the 10th century. According to legend, the saint spent seven years in the cave, praying and fasting, and it is said that wild animals would come to visit him and birds would land in his hands. The cave is a small natural cave that has been converted into a church, known as the Church of the Dormition of St. John of Rila, and contains frescoes similar in style to those found in the Rila Monastery. Visitors can explore the cave and the surrounding area, which offers stunning views of the Rila Mountains. The site is a popular destination for pilgrims and tourists alike, and is considered one of the most important cultural and historical monuments in Bulgaria

Plan your family visit to the Tomb of Saint John of Rila with these blog insights 👇

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A day in the holy lands of Rila - Rila Monastery and the Cave of Saint John

A day in the holy lands of Rila - Rila Monastery and the Cave of Saint John
This family's experience:

Activities: We visited the tomb of Saint John of Rila in the Old Hermitage. We lit candles and said a final prayer to the saint

Highlights: We felt a sense of peace and tranquility while paying our respects at the tomb ✨