Bachkovo Monastery under Major Renovation

Major repairs begin in Bachkovo Monastery "St. Assumption " (in the South Bulgarian district of Plovdiv), after the government allocated BGN 310,000 few days ago for the needs of the holy place. The most urgent is now to build a new sewer to take rainwater and stop the moisture raising to the walls of the temple.

For years, the foundations of the big church in the monastery have been drenched with moisture. As a result, the murals in the temple, where the miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary stands, were almost completely destroyed. Damages are already visible everywhere. The moisture has destroyed a meter and fifty cm of the colourful decorations in the main temple "St. Assumption ".

The murals are valuable works of Christian art and were made in 1850 by master Mosko Velev. The paintings are gradually disappearing and must be rescued quickly, Archimandrite Simon, thr abbot of the monastery said. That is why within a few days we begin to install a drainage system around the temple. Then the colour images will be restored, he added.

The fountain garden in the courtyard of the monastery will be removed. According to the abbot it also retains moisture, which accumulates in the walls of the temple. In addition, it was not included in the original architectural plan. The whole courtyard will be transformed into its authentic look of centuries ago.

Archimandrite Simon explains that It will be with large stones as it once was, and large stone slabs, so that this could create comfortable access for disabled people. We will also make an alley for the disabled to facilitate access to the holy church.

The major repairs must be completed by December 15, so that the restoration of the Holy Altar in the temple can begin next year. Meanwhile, the murals and frescos inside the church will be renovated.

By the end of next year the new wing of the monastery will be completely repaired. The sewer and drainage system are being replaced there. The heating system is also being installed.

Bachkovo Monastery saw increased number of visitors this year. And they hope that next year more people will visit one of the most famous spiritual centers in Bulgaria.