The Rock Churches of Ivanovo

 (Bulgarian: Ивановски скални църкви, Ivanovski Skalni tsarkvi)

This is a group of orthodox rock-hewn churches, chapels and monasteries in the Bulgarian Oblast Russe, on both banks of the river Lom.

A colony of hermits lived here from the 3rd to the 17th century. Most rooms were built by the monks who lived in the caves between the 13th and 17th century. At its peak there were 40 churches and 300 buildings.

The rock-cut chambers have a height of 6 to 10 meters and are connected by stairs, corridors and galleries. The complex is known for its well-preserved medieval murals. These images of biblical themes and characters have a great artistic and historical value. This partially intact frescoes illustrate the high quality of the Bulgarian medieval art. Since 1979 they are on the UNESCO World Heritage List.