One of the most astonishing churches in Bulgaria is located in the capital itself. Dragalevski monastery “Sveta Bogoroditsa” (eng:"Our Lady") is nestled in the foothills of the beautiful Vitosha Mountain surrounded by freshness and serenity. Impressed by its architecture, history and great location hundreds of pilgrims and tourists alike flock to the monastery all the time. In the past the monastery was one of the leading cultural centers in the region - back in the 17^th c. a church school was established here, the monastery actively participated in the revolutionary movement against the Ottoman oppressors as well. The Apostle of Freedom - Vasil Levski repeatedly sought refuge at the cloister.

 

The Monastery, built around 1341, consists of a church, residential and farm buildings and is situated in the Sofia borough of Dragalevsti. The place was abandoned soon after it was founded. Later on, in a subsequent restoration the little church was decorated and some of the beautiful frescoes can still be seen today. In the 17^th century other frescoes were added to the interior decoration. The monastery was declared a monument of culture.

 

At present “Our Lady” is an active convent.