Transfiguration Monastery

The Transfiguration monastery in Bulgaria is built in an pretty splendid place, about 10 km away from the ancient fortress of Tsarevets. It is situated at the foot of vertical rocks on the left bank of the Yantra river, down on the way from Veliko Turnovo to Rousse. The yard of the monastery offers a magnificent view to the defile of the river and the opposite stony hill, the foot of which shelters another Bulgarian monastery, the Patriarch’s “Holy Trinity”.

The Transfiguration monastery was built in the 14th century and is still functioning at present. Unfortunately, none of the original buildings are kept to date – the entire present-day complex was built in the 19th century. The “St Transfiguration” church also dates back to that time. Its construction was began by the Master Dimitar of Sofia (later captured and hanged by the Ottomans for his taking part in the famous Velcho’s plot against the Ottoman Empire) and finished by a famous architect of that time, Kolyo Fitcheto. The church has a unique design, which is almost uncomparable to any other shrine in a Bulgarian monastery.

The beautiful wall paintings, created by another distinguished Bulgarian artist, Zahari Zograf, is also imposing on visitors. Over a period of three years, from 1849 to 1851, Zahari works over some of the masterpieces of the Bulgarian Renaissance art. His work on the altar, as well as the beautiful fresco on the outer wall, named “The Cycle of Life”, is one of the biggest attractions. The woodcarving, called The King’s Gates, made in the 19th century, also draws the attention.

Even if the Transfiguration monastery is acting as such and the complex is spatious, food and accommodation are not offered. One can instead take the few minutes’ drive back to Veliko Tunovo, where there is regular flow of tourists. This ensures a good supply of restaurants and hotels.

The offroad to the Transfiguration monastery is about 6km away from the suburbs of Veliko Turnovo off the main road to Ruse. The offroad is signed.