Boyana Church, Medieval Orthodox church in Boyana district, Bulgaria.
Description
Boyana Church is a house of worship with three distinctly designed sections added at different times. The building features cross vaults and multiple levels, while the earliest section displays a simpler form.
History
The original section was built between the late 10th and early 11th centuries, with additional parts added in the 13th century. A further expansion took place in the 19th century, creating the structure seen today.
Culture
The walls display religious scenes created with medieval techniques that show how Byzantine and local artistic traditions came together. You can see that artists paid close attention to details and individual human qualities in their work.
Practical
Access is only by guided tour, with multiple departures available throughout the day. It is wise to book ahead and prepare for narrow spaces and low ceilings inside.
Did you know?
The wall paintings from the 13th century show people with different facial expressions and character traits, representing an early form of psychological portrayal. This was unusual for medieval times, suggesting deep artistic observation.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Boyana).
Bulgaria features ancient and medieval buildings, Orthodox churches, mountain monasteries, history and art museums, as well as natural sites like lakes, forests, and mountain resorts. The country is home to Roman baths, Thracian tombs, Byzantine fortresses, royal palaces, and monuments from the...
Boyana waterfall
1.9 km
Knyazhevo forest
2.2 km
Saint Pantaleon Church
562 mCedrus atlantica in Sofia
2.1 kmQuercus robur in Sofia
1.7 kmAcer pseudoplatanus in Sofia
2.3 kmTilia cordata in Sofia
2.1 kmQuercus robur in Sofia
1.6 kmFraxinus in Sofia
2.3 kmPseudotsuga in Sofia
2.3 kmQuercus robur in Sofia
1.6 kmQuercus petraea in Sofia
2 kmDead end street, scenic viewpoint
1.3 kmКопитото
2 kmЗнаме на мира
2.1 kmScenic viewpoint
1.2 kmScenic viewpoint
1.9 kmScenic viewpoint
2 kmBench, scenic viewpoint
2 kmSculpture, Work of art
2.2 kmScenic viewpoint
2 kmScenic viewpoint
2.1 kmScenic viewpoint
2.3 kmПараклис "Св. Пантелеймон"
904 mДневникът на Боян Петров
2 kmObelisk, memorial
244 mПаметник на загиналите в Балканската война
80 mMemorial cross, memorial
1.4 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes