Nestled in the serene region of “Pryaslopat”, about 2 kilometers southwest of Malko Tarnovo, lies a hidden spiritual retreat – Manastircheto Sveta Troitsa (The Holy Trinity Monastery). This sacred site, set at the northeastern foothills of Golyamo Gradishte peak at 477 meters above sea level, offers a peaceful escape and a glimpse into Bulgaria’s rich religious heritage.
In the early afternoon, we ventured from Sozopol to this small chapel, known locally as “manastirche” or “little monastery.” Despite its modest size, the chapel profoundly connects to the area’s history and spirituality.
A History of Faith and Resilience
Manastircheto Sveta Troitsa has a story that dates back to the 19th century. In 1865, a local woman named Radka had a dream revealing that a monastery once stood at this very spot. Her vision led to the discovery of ancient ruins, confirming the existence of a long-lost church. A Greek-inscribed stone was found among the ruins, bearing the words: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven”.
However, the region was influenced by the Greek Patriarchate of Constantinople at that time. Greek clerics removed the sacred stone, leaving behind the ruins, which remained abandoned until the area was liberated from Ottoman rule in 1913.
The chapel we see today was rebuilt in 1914, thanks to the efforts of local clergymen and the community. Originally dedicated to the Feast of the Ascension of the Lord, the chapel was later renamed Sveta Troitsa (Holy Trinity). This change reflects the deepening of Bulgarian Orthodox traditions in the region.
A Sacred Tradition and Local Belief
Manastircheto Sveta Troitsa is also known as “Nova Sveta Troitsa” due to its connection to the famous Delievo Fair. This fair, once held in the village of Delievo (now within Turkish territory), was a significant economic event for the region. After the 1913 border changes, the fair was relocated to Pryaslopat, near the chapel. Although the fair eventually faded, the chapel remained a cherished site for local worship.
Today, the chapel attracts visitors, especially during the annual Feast of the Holy Trinity. The site’s spiritual significance is heightened by the nearby spring, about 30 meters northwest of the chapel. This sacred spring, believed to have healing properties, draws pilgrims seeking physical and spiritual healing. Local tradition holds that tying a piece of cloth or clothing to a nearby bush will leave illness behind while drinking from the spring will bring about a cure.
Visiting Manastircheto Sveta Troitsa
A visit to Manastircheto Sveta Troitsa offers more than just a journey into history; it is a spiritual retreat into the heart of Bulgaria’s mystical Strandzha Mountains. The surrounding area invites exploration, with trails leading through lush forests and offering panoramic views.
See Manastircheto on Google Maps.
Tips for Your Visit to Manastircheto
- The Best Time to Visit is early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft and the air is cool.
- What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, a camera, and a bottle to collect some of the spring’s healing water.
Manastircheto Sveta Troitsa is more than a chapel – it’s a living testament to the enduring faith and resilience of the local community. Whether seeking spiritual renewal, historical insights, or a peaceful retreat, this sacred site near Malko Tarnovo is a destination worth exploring.
