Blessed Virgin Mary Church

About

In 1838, the people of Blagoevgrad felt something was missing in their small town - a church. They appealed to Ottoman leadership for permission to build a new and spectacular church, befitting the stunning setting. Borrowing the design of Rila Monastery, construction started in 1840, using solely donations and volunteer work. During the Bulgarian national revival, the church housed a new elite school. Today, visitors can admire the striking art and architecture, characterized by bold geometric shapes and vibrant colors, that is unique to the region.