Ivanovo rock churches are one of the sites in Bulgaria recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site of the world. The main reason for this is the unique preserved frescoes painted on the premises in the rocks. Undoubtedly the most famous church from the rock monasteries near Ruse is the church “Virgin Mary”.
The rock monasteries are located about 20 km from Ruse, in the valley of the river Roussenski Lom, near the village of Ivanovo. Initially in 12th century AD hermits carved into the rocks cells in an attempt to escape from the vanity in the world and to get closer to God. In the early 13th century was founded the monastery, whose frescoes are now world famous.
Donors to the monastery were the Bulgarian kings /tsars/ Ivan Asen II and Ivan Alexander. During the 14th century, the monastery became a center of Hesychasm. That mystical doctrine of Christianity teaches that everyone can reach union with God if prays strongly and consistently for that. Once the monk cells were about 300, and the churches – 40. Pathways through the rocks led from one to another.
Much of the Ivanovo rock churches were destroyed by the rains, earthquakes, ice and sun. The names of the churches were forgotten and they received a new ones from the local people. In the most visited church today “Virgin Mary” you can explore various biblical scenes painted on the rocks. Among them are The Last Supper, The entry into Jerusalem, scenes from the life of St. John the Baptist, Passion of the Christ and the hanging of Judas.
Because of their difficult accessibility rock monasteries of Ivanovo can be visited from early April to late November. During the rest of the year you can log into the church and see the unique paintings only after request. The opportunity to see the hundred years old frescoes costs only 4 lev/ approximately 2 euro/. The same is the price for a guided tour. If you are an organized group of over 5 people you pay 3 lev each / approximately 1,5 euro/. The ticket for students cost 1 lev / approximately 0,5 euro/.
