Basarbovo Monastery
Басарбовски манастир
The only cave monastery in Bulgaria still in use, built into a canyon cliff, where visitors climb stone steps to a small chapel inside the cave.
Basarbovo Monastery is in Basarbovo Village, about 10 km south of Ruse. It was carved into a limestone cliff. Its origins date to the 14th or 15th century, and it is linked to Saint Dimitar of Basarbovo. It is the only cave monastery in Bulgaria where monks still live and serve. Climb 48 stone steps to reach the chapel inside the cliff, where icons and frescoes can be seen. Below the cliff are a courtyard, a holy spring and a small exhibition. Entry is free, though donations are welcome. Dress modestly. It is about 15 minutes by car from Ivanovo, and the two are usually visited together.
Opening hours
About 08:00–18:00
Nearby sights
- Rock-hewn Churches of Ivanovo
- Ruse Regional Historical Museum (Battenberg Palace)
- Holy Trinity Cathedral
- Ruse Opera House
- Sexaginta Prista Roman Fortress
- Dohodno Zdanie (Profit Building)
- Freedom Square & Monument of Liberty
- Cathedral of St Paul of the Cross