Rozhen monastery is one of the largest and oldest in Bulgaria. It is not known precisely when it was founded, but according to annals it already existed in the 13th century. It is located amidst unbelievably beautiful nature – picturesque limestone rocks and thick forests along the slopes of Pirin Mountain.
In Rozhen monastery you can see the cells where the monks lived, the kitchen, the dining room where the monks ate and a winter chapel, where they prayed in the cold winter days. The buildings surround a courtyard on all sides, creating a sense of unique coziness and peace. The main church dedicated to the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary is located in the middle. There you will see wonderful murals, woodcarvings and stained glass decorations. The miraculous icon of the Blessed Virgin is also kept here. Legend tells about the miraculous way in which it reached the monastery. It was found on the Aegean coast, at the foot of Mount Athos in Greece. And from there the monks brought it to Rozhen monastery.