Osogovo Monastery

About

Built in the 12th century, nothing remains of the original church. What stands today is a smaller church from the 14th century, while the larger structure is from the 19th. Dimitar Andonov Papradishki’s vibrant frescoes on the larger church are fascinating for their unusual imagery, such as flying, disembodied heads, and a particularly pleased-looking Satan. Inside, the masterfully crafted iconostasis houses some valuable icons likely painted by Hristo Dimitrov. Water from the spring next to the church is believed to have healing properties. After the last monk died in 1967, the monastery became a pilgrimage site and peaceful respite, which becomes home to an art colony and an architecture school during the summer.