Ivan Rilski

On November 1, Bulgarians celebrate the National Awakening Day. On this day, tribute is paid to the work of writers, educators, fighters for national liberation, who preserved the spiritual values of the nation and its morals over the centuries.

Bulgaria is not on the bucket list of most travellers and many would find it difficult to place the country on a map. This is a shame because Bulgaria is an amazing, underrated travel destination, one that is blessed with stunning natural beauty and an abundance of fascinating places to visit. Listed below are ten of the most compelling reasons to travel to Bulgaria this year.

The Bulgarian Orthodox Church honours on October 19 Saint Ivan Rilski, honored as the patron of the Bulgarian people.

St Ivan Rilski was the first Bulgarian recluse. He was revered as a saint when he was still alive and the legend says wild animals were coming to him and birds were landing on his hands.

The Bulgarian Orthodox Church celebrates Friday, August 18, the assumption of Saint Ivan Rilski, honored as the patron of the Bulgarian people.

St. Ivan Rilski was the first Bulgarian recluse. He was revered as a saint when he was still alive and the legend says wild animals were coming to him and birds were landing on his hands.