The Han Krumski rock monastery is in the south-eastern part of the cliff rim of the Shumen Plateau, at about 360 m, north of the village of Han Krum. It belongs to a complex of rock monasteries, churches and cells used by hesychast monks in the 12th–14th centuries. It is not a cave in the full sense: the monks enlarged a natural cave with hand tools.
Below the monastery runs the Kalugerov gorge. On its eastern side is the main part, the Kalugerova Cave, also called the Stair Cave because it is reached by a double staircase cut into the rock. A wooden roof once covered the last step to the entrance. On the western side is Momina Skala, with a cell dug into the rock known as "the Cell".
The Kalugerova Cave is divided into three rooms:
The monastery is in the open. The last stretch is up rock-cut steps, which are slippery after rain. It is not accessible with a pushchair.
With children: it suits children who can walk steadily for about an hour on a path. Hold small children’s hands on the steps.
Han Krum is about 19 km from Shumen, around 20 minutes by car; a cart track leads north from the village. A marked route also starts at the Shumen Plateau Nature Park visitor centre and passes the Kursisti monument — you can drive to the monument, then walk about an hour to the monastery.
Shumen region
3.8 km away
Shumen region
3.8 km away
Shumen region
4.4 km away
Han Krumski Rock Monastery is located in Shumen, Bulgaria.
Han Krumski Rock Monastery is most easily reached by car. Use the coordinates above to navigate, or open the location in OpenStreetMap or your preferred maps app for turn-by-turn directions. Public transport options vary by region — for remote destinations a rental car gives the most flexibility.
Caves can be visited year-round — the temperature inside stays roughly 10–12°C regardless of season. Spring and autumn are quieter than peak summer. Bring a warm layer and sturdy footwear; some caves close in winter when access roads become impassable.
Access to caves varies. Show caves typically run guided tours during posted opening hours; wild caves require proper equipment and experience. Inside, the temperature stays cool year-round (~10–12°C) — bring a warm layer, sturdy non-slip footwear, and a torch even on guided tours.
