The Rock Church of the Holy Spirit at the Village of Matochina – Deep in the Stone and Time
The Rock Church of the Holy Spirit near the village of Matochina is a remarkable cultural monument hewn directly into the rock. It lies approximately 2 kilometers southwest of the village, in the area known as “Dekili Kaya” (Broken Stone).
This impressive sanctuary, carved in the 10th century by hermit monks, embodies the spiritual essence of its era and preserves visible traces of religious life and practices from the distant days of the Byzantine Empire.
Architectural Features and Interior Appearance
The church is carved into limestone rock with a smoothly sculpted façade. On either side of the entrance, about ten broad, chiseled steps lead to a small arched corridor, measuring 4.40 meters in length, 3 meters in width, and 3.5 meters in height.
The interior space is rectangular with a vaulted ceiling, measuring 7 meters by 9.85 meters and reaching a height of 5 meters.
The eastern wall does not feature a traditional apse, but includes three niches located approximately two meters above the floor, likely intended for icons.
In the corridor near the exit, there are two square niches on either side, with an additional niche of the same height further in on the left-hand side.
Place of Pilgrimage and Historical Significance
The rock churches in Matochina and Mihalich were created by hermit monks around the 10th century.
Above the church in the village of Matochina, several east-west-oriented tombs carved directly into the rock have been found – reflecting traditional Christian burial practices.
Rock-hewn “churches” like this are also common in the Rusenski Lom River region and in parts of Asia Minor, such as around Amasya and Lake Van. Many of them were linked to various Christian heresies, which were widespread during that period.
The rock church in Matochina – also referred to as the “Old Church” – remains a sacred site for pilgrimage to this day. In 1968, it was declared a monument of national importance, highlighting its enduring historical and spiritual significance.
Prices
Guided Tour “History and Faith”:
Group of up to 20 people: 18 BGN / 9,20 EUR
Group of 21 to 50 people: 30 BGN / 15,34 EUR
Note: Prices are per group.
Contact
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours
Matochina Information Centre (MIC): Open from May to the end of October on weekends and holidays