Bulgaria, Ivanovo Rock Monastery - Saint Mochael the Archangel

The Ivanovo Monastery, located near Ruse and the village of Ivanovo, is a historical and cultural site within Natural Park Rusenski Lom. Founded in the 1220s by Monk Yoakim, it was supported by Bulgarian Tzars and became a spiritual center during the Second Bulgarian Empire. The monastery is renowned for its 13th and 14th-century wall paintings, which are exemplary of Bulgarian Church art and Palaiologus art. These artistic qualities led to its inclusion in UNESCO's list of global cultural heritage. Despite its decline during the Ottoman period, the site was declared a national archaeological reservation in 1978. Today, the monastery is inactive but remains a significant historical site.

Who founded the monastery and what was his later title?

Describe the historical significance of the donations made by the Bulgarian Tzars to the monastery.

What significant role did the monastery play during the second Bulgarian Empire?

What are the notable features of the wall paintings in the church of St. Mary?

What event led to the declaration of the Ivanovo rock complex as a national archaeological reservation?