Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Originally dating from the 12th century, this
monastery
(admission free; 9am-6pm)
lies tucked beneath limestone cliffs about 6km from Dryanovo (Dry-
an
-ovo) village. It
was alternately destroyed by the Turks and rebuilt by Bulgarians over a 500-year period.
Like many other monasteries, it provided sanctuary to the revolutionary leader, Vasil
Levski, and his men. Later, during the Russo-Turkish War (1877-78), more than a hun-
dred locals made a valiant last stand against the Turks, for some nine days. The Turks
eventually won, burning the place down yet again. The villagers' bravery is commemor-
ated with a
mausoleum
in the monastery grounds.
Dryanovo's monks have a reputation for friendliness and are happy to chat with visit-
ors. Accommodation is usually available, but call in advance if possible.
Inside the Komplex Vodopadi is a
Historical Museum
( 2097; Dryanovo Monas-
tery; admission 3 lv; 9am-noon & 12.30-3.30pm Mon-Fri, 9.45am-3.45pm Sat & Sun)
,
devoted mostly to the 1876 April Uprising and the Russo- Turkish War. The macabre col-
lection of skulls is remarkable. Downstairs are artefacts from nearby caves, including
Bacho Kiro, and some icons.
From the bridge near the car park, a 400m path leads through lush forest to the 1200m-
long
Bacho Kiro Cave
(short/long tour 2/4 lv; 9am-6pm Apr-Oct, 10am-4pm Nov-
Mar)
, inhabited during the Palaeolithic era. It's a long, well-lit cave, and guided tours are
offered, though aren't really necessary.
Hikers have the
Dryanovo Ecotrail
, a well-marked, circular path that starts and fin-
ishes near the monastery. The hike takes about four hours, and passes through lush, hilly
forests. To find the trailhead, ask at the Bacho Kiro cave or at the Mehana Mecha Dupka,
which is in the woods just behind the monastery, about 50m from the start of the trail
leading to the cave.
Sleeping & Eating
The
monastery
( 5253; Dryanovo Monastery; per person with shared bathroom 15 lv)
offers simple rooms.
Komplex Vodopadi $
( 2314; d/apt 40/50 lv)
This place, virtually attached to the monastery, offers several
small but clean rooms. Many have balconies overlooking the monastery.
HOTEL
Mehana Andyka $
BULGARIAN
