The submerged church in the Zhrebchevo dam is a mystical and thrilling experience!
One of the many opportunities to discover unsuspected and magical corners is the submerged church in the Zhrebchevo dam, a mere 45 min from Stara Zagora by car. The 'Saint Ivan Rilski' Church was built in the 1960s and was submerged together with the nearby villages Zhrebchevo, Zapalnya and Dolno Panicharevo in order to build the dam. The local inhabitants managed to preserve part of their church and moved the altar and the bell to the neighboring villages.
It is an interesting fact that the bell continues to toll every time a former inhabitant of the submerged villages dies, in accordance to their promise.
The church is under water during half of the year. At that time it is accessible only by boat and that is a true adventure. In the summer, during the dry season, you have the option of walking and experiencing the spirit of one of the most interesting and beautiful corners of the country.
It is a favorite destination for the fans of photography who come specifically in order to take unforgettable pictures.
