Cherepishki monastery (The Assumption of Virgin Mary)

The origins of the monastery date back to the reign of Tsar Ivan Shishman (1371–1395). According to legend, the name “Cherepish” derives from the skulls of fallen warriors who lost their lives in a battle against Ottoman invaders at the end of the 16th century. Towards the end of the 16th century, the monastery was rebuilt by Saint Pimen Zografski and evolved into a center for literature and spiritual life. In 1612, the “Cherepish Tetraevangelion” with a gilded cover was created here. Literary activity continued into the 18th century. A two-story ossuary with a chapel dedicated to Saint John the Baptist was built into the rocks above the monastery in 1784. After a temporary closure due to raids by Kardzhaliy bands at the end of the 17th century, the monastery resumed its operations in 1802. The residential buildings preserved today were constructed in 1836 under Abbot Joseph. In the early 19th century, with donations from wealthy benefactors, including a Turkish philanthropist whose daughter found healing at the monastery, the Rashid House was built, followed later by the Metodi and Danail Houses. The monastery houses frescoes from the 16th to 19th centuries and a collection of ancient icons. A corner is dedicated to the poet Ivan Vazov, who found inspiration here for works such as “Grandfather Yotso Watches.”

The Cherepish Monastery is located in Lyutibrod, in the Mesdra district, Vratsa region, in Bulgaria. It stands at an elevation of approximately 243 meters above sea level.

Today, the monastery is an active monastic complex. It also offers accommodation options. The monastery's feast day is celebrated on August 15th, the Day of the Holy Virgin Mary.