Razboishte Monastery, Orthodox monastery in Sofia Province, Bulgaria
Razboishte Monastery sits in a gorge carved by the Nishava river near the village of Razboishte and features a simple single-nave church built directly above the flowing water. The structure incorporates the natural rock formations and surrounding caves as part of its overall design.
The monastery dates to the 4th century but suffered repeated destruction during Ottoman rule, with its buildings burned down three times. These recurring attacks eventually led to the site being abandoned as an active religious community.
The monastery has served as a pilgrimage destination for Orthodox believers who came to pray in the caves surrounding the church. Its connection to Saint Sava continues to draw visitors seeking spiritual reflection today.
Reaching the monastery requires traveling on a dirt road from nearby villages, a route that becomes impassable during heavy rain or wet conditions. Sturdy footwear is recommended and it helps to check local conditions before making the journey.
After centuries of abandonment, three nuns arrived in 1947 to resettle and restore the monastery, with the last nun passing away in 2007. This small group kept the site alive as a place of prayer without significant institutional backing.
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