Prepodobna Stoyna, who lived in the church for over 30 years, was blind from a young age and is claimed to have possessed extraordinary clairvoyant abilities.
The 1,300-year-old plane tree in the courtyard is protected as a natural landmark in Bulgaria.
Unlike many standard Bulgarian churches, the iconography here includes depictions that are considered syncretic and unique to the local spiritual tradition.
The church was built on the foundations of an ancient sanctuary, a common practice in this region of the Pirin mountains.
Visitors often leave written requests or personal items near Stoyna's room, believing the site retains her spiritual energy.
The Church of Saint George in Zlatolist is a small Eastern Orthodox temple famously associated with the Bulgarian mystic and folk healer Stoyna Krastova, known as Prepodobna Stoyna. The building dates back to the 19th century and is constructed from stone with a modest, low-profile exterior. Inside, the temple houses unique, non-canonical religious iconography and wall paintings that differ from traditional Orthodox style. A large, ancient plane tree stands in the courtyard, estimated to be over 1,300 years old. Pilgrims frequent the site seeking healing and spiritual guidance, often leaving personal belongings in the areas where Stoyna Krastova resided. The site functions as a place of active prayer and reflection rather than a museum. The interior is characterized by its intimate scale and the presence of votive offerings.
The courtyard featuring the massive, ancient plane tree provides the most iconic perspective of the church's exterior.
Bring a small notebook or paper to leave a written prayer or request.
Maintain a respectful, quiet tone as this is an active site of pilgrimage for locals.
Wear comfortable walking shoes to explore the uneven ground in the courtyard and around the ancient tree.
Avoid taking photographs inside the sanctuary, as it is considered disruptive to those in prayer.
Modest dress is required: shoulders and knees must be covered. Silence is expected inside the main temple area.
