The Vitosha Mountain

The Vitosha Mountain is the most frequently visited mountain. Its close location to Sofia, regular transport to its base, and both a chair and gondola lifts provide the inhabitants of Sofia with the opportunity to spend a wonderful weekend in the mountains. Cherni Vrah Peak, 2290 m high, tops the imposing dome of the mountain. The moraine rock rivers are a typical Vitosha landscape. The Vitosha plateau became the first national park in the country and on the Balkans in 1935. During the Middle Ages, some 14 monasteries were built at the base of Vitosha and the nearby moun­tains of Plana, Liulin, and Lozenska Planina. The monasteries became known as Mala Sveta Gora (Minor Mount Athos). Many of these peaceful monasteries can be easily visited, and some offer overnight accommodations for guests.

Dragalevtzi Monastery click on image to view big picture

The Dragalevtzi Monastery was built in the 14th century near the village of Dragalevtzi, where the tourist trails begins. The monastery wall paintings were made in 1476. It was the center of the Sofia literary school. Two tetraeven-gelicas dating from 1469 and 1534, a psalter (16th century) and many other church books originated from the monastery. This monastery was also one of Levski's hiding places.