Boyana Church

"This remarkable structure, inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 1979, is celebrated for its exceptional frescoes, which date back to 1259 and reflect the artistic brilliance of the 13th century. Boyana Church consists of three distinct building stages. The oldest part, known as the "Old Church," is a small cross-domed structure built between the 10th and 11th centuries. It was later renovated in the 12th century. In the 13th century, a narthex and a small upper-floor chapel were added to the western facade. In the mid-19th century, a two-storied anteroom was built, dedicated to Saints Nicholas and Panteleimon. The church remained in operation until 1954. An inscription in Old Bulgarian located in the church’s narthex provides critical historical information, including the year 1259, when the frescoes were completed, and the names of the donors, Sebastokrator Kaloyan and his wife Desislava, who were related to both the Bulgarian Tsar and the Serbian King. The frescoes, which follow the Christian canon for mural painting, include a grand image of Christ Pantokrator in the apse, surrounded by angels and the four Evangelists. The altar features depictions of the Holy Virgin Enthroned, the Annunciation, and scenes from the life of Christ. In the narthex, 18 compositions illustrate the life of Saint Nicholas, along with portraits of the donors, the Bulgarian Tsar Constantine-Asen Tikh, and Tsaritsa Irina. It also includes the first known depiction of Saint Ivan of Rila. The chapel dedicated to Saint Panteleimon on the second floor contains frescoes from the same period but executed in a different style. Fragments of the Annunciation, the Crucifixion, and the Resurrection are still preserved. The Boyana Church frescoes, which belong to the Turnovo School of Painting, are renowned for their vibrant colors, psychological depth, and detailed portraiture. The unknown artist behind these works innovated by emphasizing the individuality and spirituality of the figures, making Boyana Church a significant cultural and artistic treasure. Restoration efforts began in the mid-20th century and were completed in 2006, following a fundraising campaign initiated by the National Museum of History. "

"One of the places not to be missed is certainly the Boyana church, a small medieval jewel, perhaps the only one that has survived to the present day. From the outside it is nothing special, but all its internal walls are completely covered with frescoes created from since 1259, which reflect the exceptional achievements of medieval Bulgarian culture. In 1979 it was included in the list of UNESCO world heritage sites. 📍Distance: 8 km from the center of Sofia. 👣How to get there: I advise you to take part in a tour that includes both the Boyana Church and the Rila monastery, including transport. Accompanied by a guide you will discover all the secrets and history of these places. However, if you want to reach it independently I advise you to take the bus 64 to the Vitosha stop which leaves you a few minutes from the church or opt for the taxi, which is very cheap and could cost €10 return. 🎟️Ticket cost: 10,00 BNG (€5,10),prices for the organized tour, consult the prices in the link I attached👇🏼"

"Medieval church known for an interior covered in frescos dating from the late 900s."