Discover the breathtaking beauty of Ritli - one of the most beautiful rock formations in the Iskar Gorge! These sheer limestone cliffs are a testament to the power of nature, formed 120 million years ago when a prehistoric sea flourished in this area. From a distance, they look like carriage stairs and rise in places to 80 meters, dominating the steep south-eastern slope of the Vrachan mountain near Lyutibrod.

Ritlite: the Bulgarian natural wonder and ancient fortress

But "Ritlite" is not just a natural wonder - it also has a rich history dating back to ancient times. Legend has it that an iron gate once closed the way to the ancient Bulgarian fortress of Serdika, and the Ritli played a crucial role in helping the Romans block the exit of the Iskar Gorge. Today, the towers of the Rytles still bear the remains of old fortress walls, reminding us of the legendary past of the area.

Ritlite: A window to Bulgaria's medieval heritage and breathtaking nature

Nearby you will find the ruins of the old Bulgarian city of Korintgrad or Koritengrad, fortified with strong stone walls and battlements that still stand today. Nine medieval Bulgarian churches have been discovered in the area, with the best-preserved dating from the 10th-12th centuries. The rich archaeological complex, including Koritengrad and the medieval fortress Ritlite, was declared a national cultural monument in 1979.

But history isn't the only thing that makes this area special. Next to the Rites, you'll find Rashov Dol, the place where the Bot Company fought its last battle after the death of its commander. Every year on June 3, the locals celebrate the festivities in honor of the ten men who died here. And according to legend, the nearby Iskarski Brod was the place where Baba Iliitsa from Ivan Vazov's emblematic story "One Bulgarian Woman" crossed the river - a place marked with a plaque.

Come explore Ritli and the surrounding area for a glimpse into Bulgaria's fascinating history and stunning natural beauty!