site.btaPilgrimage Tourism in Bulgaria Sees Steady Growth, Minister Says

Pilgrimage tourism in Bulgaria has been growing steadily by 5% to 10% annually and reflects not only religious interest but also a cultural experience sought by modern travelers, said Tourism Minister Miroslav Borshosh on Friday, as quoted by his ministry. He spoke at the country’s first national conference dedicated to pilgrimage tourism.

At the event, attended by Metropolitan Antonii of Western and Central Europe, clergy, religious communities, local authorities, academics, and tourism experts, a new edition of a travel guide highlighting key Christian pilgrimage routes in Bulgaria was unveiled. The guide features ten destinations, including monasteries, churches, and sites of spiritual and historical significance.

Minister Borshosh emphasized Bulgaria’s potential to become a leading destination for pilgrimage tourism due to its deep spiritual traditions and rich cultural heritage. He announced the creation of a working group—including the Bulgarian Orthodox Church, other religious communities, academia, local authorities, and tourism professionals—to promote these routes domestically and internationally.

The guidebook, developed in partnership with the 24 Chasa media platform and Trud publishing house, is part of the ministry’s efforts to support year-round, niche tourism and to highlight Bulgaria’s unique role as a spiritual and cultural destination.