House-Museum "Neofit Rilski" (Beni's House)

The Neofit Rilski House-Museum, also known as the Benin House, is one of the most significant cultural and historical monuments in the town of Bansko. It is the birthplace of the great Bulgarian Revivalist, writer and educator Neofit Rilski, who is the founder of the New Bulgarian education and the first encyclopedist of our Revival. The house is not just a museum, but a symbol of the awakened spirit of the people of Bansko.

History of the Monastery (Beninata Kashta)

The building was built in the 18th century and belongs to the famous Benini family. Nikola Poppetrov Benin was born there in 1793, who later took the monastic name Neofit Rilski. The house is a typical example of Bansko fortified architecture. In 1981, the site was officially turned into a museum to preserve the memory of the „patriarch of Bulgarian teachers and writers“, as Konstantin Irechek calls him. It survived the turbulent years of Ottoman rule, preserving its authenticity and spirit.

Collections and exhibits

The exhibition is divided into two parts: ethnographic and documentary. The documentary department houses over 400 valuable exhibits, including original manuscripts, letters and the first edition of his "Bulgarian Grammar" from 1835. The "Greek-Bulgarian Dictionary", on which he worked for decades, is also extremely valuable. Visitors can also see the educator's personal belongings, as well as books from his personal library, which testify to his enormous contribution to Bulgarian culture.

Architecture and atmosphere

The interior immerses guests in the atmosphere of a traditional Bansko family. Particularly impressive is the hidden refuge (the hiding place), which is connected to an exit to the courtyard - a necessity in the uncertain times of the 18th and 19th centuries. The wood carvings on the ceilings and the authentic fireplaces complement the feeling of coziness and timelessness.

Interactive experiences

The museum offers modern methods for getting acquainted with the work of Neofit Rilski. Through specialized boards and multimedia materials, visitors can follow the path of his travels and his educational reform in Gabrovo and Rila Monastery. Audio talks are offered that explain in detail the significance of each manuscript in the context of the Bulgarian Renaissance.

Educational programs and initiatives

• "Patriotism Classes" are organized for students, in which learning is simulated using the mutual school method.
• Literary readings and historical quizzes dedicated to the work of enlightenment are held.

Temporary exhibitions and events

The museum is the center of cultural life in Bansko. Every year on November 1 (the Day of the National Awakeners), celebrations and temporary exhibitions on the theme of "Renaissance Literature" are held. The National Museum of Education and the Rila Holy Monastery often host exhibitions.

Opening hours and tickets

How to get to the monastery (museum)

Address: Bansko, 17 Pirin Street.

• On foot: The museum is located in close proximity to the Holy Trinity Church in the historic part of the city.
• By car: Access is via the central streets, with designated parking spaces near the square.

Shop and coffee area

At the entrance to the museum there is a small souvenir shop where you can purchase reproductions of original Bulgarian Renaissance prints, postcards and historical literature. The area around the museum is full of authentic Bansko taverns where you can try local specialties such as kapama and chomlek right after your tour.

Why visit this monastery (museum)?

A visit to the Neofit Rilski House-Museum is a history lesson that every Bulgarian should experience. This place provides a deep understanding of how ideas are born in a small community like Bansko that have changed the fate of an entire nation. Here you can feel the power of knowledge and the unwavering faith in progress. The museum is part of the 100 national tourist sites and is a must-see for anyone who wants to understand the roots of Bulgarian education.