Bulgaria, Rila Monastery

The Rila Monastery, located in Bulgaria's Rila Mountains, is a significant Eastern Orthodox site founded in the 10th century by St. Ivan of Rila. It has been a cultural and spiritual center, supported by Bulgarian rulers and rebuilt after Ottoman raids. The monastery is renowned for its National Revival architecture, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. It features a main church with intricate wood carvings and frescoes, a residential complex, and a museum housing Raphael's Cross. The monastery remains a key tourist attraction and religious site.

What is the significance of the Rila Monastery in Bulgaria?

• It is the largest Eastern Orthodox monastery in Bulgaria.

• It is the oldest monastery in Europe.

• It is a modern architectural wonder.

• It is the smallest monastery in Bulgaria.

Who was responsible for the reerection of the Rila Monastery in the 14th century?

• Sultana Mara Brankovich

• Ivan of Rila

• Heralio, a feudal lord

• Tsar Peter the 1st

Which event led to the destruction of the Rila Monastery in the 15th century?

• Ottoman raids

• A natural disaster

• A fire outbreak

• A civil war

When was the Rila Monastery declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

• 1976

• 1983

• 1991

• 2002

Which notable figure visited the Rila Monastery in 2002?

• Pope John Paul II

• Dalai Lama

• Queen Elizabeth II

• Nelson Mandela

What is a unique architectural feature of the main church in the Rila Monastery?

• It has no windows.

• It is made entirely of wood.

• It has five domes.

• It has a single dome.

What does the exterior of the Rila Monastery resemble?

• A cathedral

• A fortress

• A palace

• A castle