The chapel is situated approximately 4 kilometers above the main complex of the Rila Monastery in the Rila Mountains.
It stands directly beside a cave where Saint Ivan Rilski (John of Rila)—the patron saint of Bulgaria—lived as a hermit during the 10th century.
According to legend, anyone who succeeds in passing through a narrow shaft inside the nearby cave to emerge into the open air is said to be free of sin.
The chapel is a popular destination for hikers visiting the monastery complex and is accessible via a forest trail.

*** Best view at original size ***