Bulgaria Inside

One of the oldest settlements in the foot of Rila Mountain hides in its heart a real historic treasure.

The village of Dobursko is situated 180 km away from Sofia and 20 km away from the resort of Bansko. There, you can explore one of the 100 national tourist sites, namely the church St. St. Teodor and Tiron Stratilat.

The church was constructed in 1614. Many historians have examined it and written books and research papers about the sanctuary.

Structure enabled the church survive Ottoman rule, since nearly half of the building is dug into the ground. St. St. Teodor and Tiron Stratilat is plain and almost unnoticeable from the outside, a fact compensated for by the interior that is richly painted and decorated.

The unique wall paintings make historians wonder. Many rumors and stories about their origin have been circulated. Some of the theories focus on the modernistic looks of some icons. Skeptics sometimes call the church the place where the icon of Jesus Christ in a rocket is found.

Many wall paintings seem to be unorthodox. According to some descriptions the halos of saints resemble helmets. Some unusual symbols like swastikas can be seen on the façade.

Other stories about the church have been told. A small spring originates beneath the building and locals believe its water has healing power. According to the legend, after a battle the soldiers of Bulgarian tsar Samuil were blinded by the enemy. They managed to reach Dobursko and stayed there to heal themselves. The soldiers founded a music school that still exists today.

Some historians believe that Dobursko is the place where St. Ivan Rilski, the founder of Rila Monastery, began his spiritual path.

The church in Dobursko has been placed under UNESCO protection today but is open for visitors. Its work time is 8 am to 5 pm. You can call and schedule a visit in advance via phone on 074406/ 215.

You can travel to Dobursko by car or you can take the bus to the village from Razlog. Accommodation opportunities include stay in a hotel or in a village house. The village has numerous other landmarks that you can enjoy during your stay. To learn more about the village click here.