NEWS

September 27 – World Tourism Day

On September 27, we celebrate World Tourism Day – an initiative by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), which aims to raise awareness of the importance of tourism and its impact on society, the economy, culture, and the environment worldwide. Each year, this day is dedicated to a specific theme that reflects current challenges and opportunities in the tourism sector. The theme for World Tourism Day 2025 is “Tourism and Green Investments,” emphasizing...

Rila Monastery Nature Park hosted Belgian foresters

Rila Monastery Nature Park was pleased to host a group of 50 experts from the Royal Belgian Forestry Society, who are on a study trip to Bulgaria to exchange experience in the field of sustainable forestry. During their visit, the guests got acquainted with the natural wealth of the park, as well as with the spiritual and cultural heart of the region - the Rila Monastery. The meeting was part of a wider program for the exchange of experience with the South-Western Forestry...

ANOTHER FOREST FIRE IN RILA MONASTERY NATURE PARK

We regret to inform you that another forest fire is currently raging in the area of Rila Monastery Nature Park — the fourth one this summer alone. The fire started on the southern slopes below Mount Baba, in the valley of the Iliyna River, and has already engulfed over 200 decares (approximately 50 acres) of forest. Valuable high-mountain ecosystems, wildlife habitats, and centuries-old forests are burning. Due to the extremely dry weather and high temperatures, the fire...

Important Announcement: Increased Visitor Flow Expected During August Religious Holidays

Dear visitors, Between August 14 and 18, 2025, a significant increase in visitors is expected in and around the Rila Monastery and the surrounding areas of Rila Monastery Nature Park, due to the celebration of two major Christian holidays: The Dormition of the Holy Mother of God – August 15 The Dormition of Saint John of Rila – August 18 In light of the increased visitor numbers and the ongoing fire hazard season (April 1 – November 30, 2025),...