Rila Monastery is 121km (75 miles) from Sofia, perched high up on the side of a mountain in the middle of thick pine forests. Rila has a fascinating collection of murals, woodcarvings, old weapons and coins; and manuals and Bibles written on parchment. The monastery itself is notable for its delicate and unusual architectural features. Originally founded in the 10th century by the hermit and holy man, Ivan Rilski, the monastery acted as a repository and sanctuary for Bulgarian culture during the 500-year Turkish occupation from 1396. Fire has destroyed most of the early architecture and the present buildings date from the 19th century, with the exception of the 14th-century Khrelio’s Tower. There is good accommodation in the monastery and a nearby hotel. Rila is an excellent starting place for climbs and hikes in the surrounding countryside.