Monastery St. Yoan Predtecha (St. John the Precursor)

The complex, located on the right bank of the Arda River, was originally part of the episcopal see of "Saint John Prodromos," founded in the 6th or 7th century. Archaeological investigations have revealed that four Byzantine-style churches were successively built on this site, showing influences from Mount Athos. The monastery served as the spiritual center of one of the great medieval bishoprics, Achridos. Initial discoveries of the ruins were made in the 1930s by amateur historians. Extensive archaeological work took place between 1980 and 1984, followed by restoration and conservation measures from 1998 to 2000. Historical sources and findings suggest that an episcopal see existed here as early as the late 9th and early 10th centuries, which developed into an archiepiscopal center. Unique finds, including a well-preserved epitrachelion from the 11th or 12th century and relics in a cross-shaped cloth bag, attest to Kardzhali's importance as a Christian center in the Middle Ages. The rebuilt monastery church was reconsecrated in 2000.

The sacred building is located in Kardzhali, in the district of Kardzhali, in the region of Kardzhali in Bulgaria, at an altitude of approximately 234 m above sea level.

The monastery can be visited today and is a testament to medieval architecture and spirituality. A large portion of the artifacts discovered during the excavations are exhibited in the Regional Historical Museum of Kardzhali.

• Monyak Fortress (Fortress), approx. 7.4 km away
• Ancient City of Perperikon (Ancient Buildings), approx. 12.6 km away
• Krivus Fortress (Fortress), approx. 20.1 km away
• Ustra Fortress (Fortress), approx. 21.1 km away