John of Rila (Saint)

Saint John of Rila was a Bulgarian monk and the founder of monasticism in Bulgaria during the 10th century. He is revered as the country’s patron saint and is best known for his deep spirituality and ascetic lifestyle, choosing to live in the rugged Rila Mountains. His life inspired many followers, leading to the establishment of the Rila Monastery, which remains a significant cultural and religious site. Canonized in the 19th century, his legacy symbolizes devotion, humility, and a commitment to God, and he is celebrated on October 19 in the Orthodox Christian calendar.