St. Dimitar Basarabovski rock monastery

The rock monastery St. Dimitar Basarabovski is located in Northeastern Bulgaria, some 15 km away from the city of Rousse, in the region of the Besarabovo village. It is the only active men’s rock monastery in Bulgaria. The name of the monastery was first mentioned back in 1431 in a Turkish tax record. In XVI century it was deserted, only to be restored again in 1937. Nowadays, it is well kept and uniquely beautiful. It was proclaimed archeological monument of culture of local importance in 1978. But its importance stretches far beyond only being an archeological treasure. It is highly valued for its rich architectural, cultural and religious heritage.