Krastova Gora, Plovdiv

Krastova Gora is one of the largest Christian centers in Bulgaria, which attracts a large number of pilgrims. The place is situated in the Middle Rhodope Mountain, 60 km from Plovdiv, 40 km from Asenovgrad and 6 km from the village of Borovo. Its altitude is 1,545 meters. The complex is situated on a meadow amidst a beautiful forest.

The reason that makes Krastova Gora attract so many pilgrims from the entire country is the legend that a piece of the Christ’s Cross was buried here. Many legends speak about this place and all of them are related to the Cross of Christ and the wonder of healing.

The church “Protection of Holy Virgin Mary” which was completed in 1995 is situated in the beginning of the chapel complex. Chapels dedicated to the 12 apostles are placed along the area from it to a small hill.

In 1936 Tsar Boris ІІІ donated a large 99 kilogram metal cross. Now its duplicate is placed there, and it can be seen at the highest place in the end of the alley. People believe that the cross has miraculous power and heals incurably ill people. There is a spring in the region, which also has curative power according to the legend.

The largest number of pilgrims which visit Krastova Gora come in the eve of Cross Day (14 September). On 13 September every year thousands of pilgrims come and pray for health and stay for the night vigil in front of the church “Protection of Mary” or spend the night praying in some of the chapels.