Rila Monastery is one of the most important cultural, historical, and architectural landmarks in Bulgaria. It is located in the Rila Mountains and is the largest Eastern Orthodox monastery in Bulgaria. The monastery was founded in the 10th century and has been a cultural center of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church ever since.

The current complex of Rila Monastery was built in the 19th century, replacing an earlier wooden church that was destroyed by fire. The complex features an impressive collection of frescoes, murals, and architectural elements, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region. The main church of the monastery is dedicated to the Holy Virgin and features beautiful frescoes, painted by the famous Bulgarian painter Zahari Zograf.

In addition to its religious significance, Rila Monastery has also been a center of education and learning. It has a rich library that contains thousands of books and manuscripts, including some of the earliest written records of Bulgarian history and culture.