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Bachkovo

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Landmark
—°1
Bachkovo (Bulgaria)

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Bachkovo Monastery, officially the Monastery of the Assumption of the Virgin, is picturesquely situated on the banks of the Chepelare River in the Rhodope Mountains. Founded in 1083 by Byzantine-Georgian nobles, it is now the second largest and one of the oldest monasteries in Bulgaria. The complex is a significant religious and cultural monument, housing a unique blend of Byzantine, Georgian, and Bulgarian influences. Visitors enter the main courtyard where the Church of the Holy Virgin Mary stands, famous for its miraculous icon of the Mother of God. Every year on Easter Monday, the icon is carried in a grand procession to the nearby site of Klyuvia. Particularly noteworthy is the refectory with its impressive frescoes from 1643, depicting the history of the monastery and biblical scenes. The ossuary, the only building preserved from the founding period, also houses valuable medieval paintings. The path to the monastery leads through a lively bazaar selling local specialties such as Rhodope herbs, homemade jam, and ceramics. The surroundings invite hiking in the Red Wall Biosphere Reserve, known for its rich flora and waterfalls. A visit to Bachkovo ideally combines spirituality, history, and the impressive nature of the Rhodope Mountains.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C1371117212424191382
Rain mm604856476771563550564965

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
Bachkovo Monastery, Bulgaria's second-largest, is open to visitors. The courtyard and church interior can be visited, and the grounds are freely walkable.
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Typical hours
Typically the monastery is open during daytime, usually from around 7:00 to 18:00. Please note that opening hours may vary seasonally and on holidays.
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Photography
Photography in the courtyard and church is usually allowed, but without flash inside the church. Please follow posted signs.
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Time needed
A visit to the monastery complex typically takes about 1 to 2 hours. If you also want to explore the surroundings, allow extra time.
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Combine with
Combine the trip with a hike in the Rhodope Mountains or visit the nearby city of Plovdiv, about 30 km away. Both destinations complement the visit excellently.
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Getting there
By car, reach Bachkovo from Plovdiv via the road to Asenovgrad, then follow signs. Public buses run regularly from Plovdiv bus station to Bachkovo.
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Insider tip
Tip: Arrive early in the morning to enjoy the tranquility and avoid crowds. Be sure to try the local dishes at one of the traditional restaurants in the village.

Geography

Coordinates
41.94226, 24.84991

Facts

  • Founded in 1083
  • Second largest monastery in BG
  • Miraculous icon of Virgin Mary
  • Impressive refectory frescoes
  • Byzantine-Georgian origins
  • Preserved 11th-century ossuary
  • Located by Chepelare River
  • Local market for herbs and honey

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Bachkovo MonasteryBachkovo Monastery<1 km · EExplore →
Asen's FortressAsen's Fortress5 km · NExplore →
AsenovgradAsenovgrad7 km · NExplore →
Rhodope FoothillsRhodope Foothills8 km · NWExplore →
Krumovo MonumentKrumovo Monument21 km · NExplore →
PlovdivPlovdiv23 km · NExplore →
Maritsa WetlandsMaritsa Wetlands25 km · NExplore →
Church of the Holy ApostlesChurch of the Holy Apostles25 km · NWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Bachkovo (1)

Ossuary📍 landmark

The ossuary at Bachkovo Monastery, housing the bones of monks.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Why is Bachkovo Monastery famous?
It is Bulgaria's second largest monastery with a miracle-working icon.
What can you see in the surroundings?
The 'Wonderful Bridges' (Chudni Mostove) are a great natural monument.
Are there market stalls there?
Yes, the path to the monastery is lined with stalls selling honey, herbs, and souvenirs.
Is entry to the monastery free?
The courtyard and main church are free; the museum and ossuary have a fee.
How far is it from Plovdiv?
About 30 km south of Plovdiv, easily accessible by bus or car.
Bachkovo: where is it located?
Bachkovo is located in Bulgaria.
Bachkovo: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.
Bachkovo: why is it worth visiting?
Bachkovo Monastery, officially the Monastery of the Assumption of the Virgin, is picturesquely situated on the banks of the Chepelare River in the Rhodope Mountains.
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History & landmarks

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Troyan — Bachkovo (Bulgaria)
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