Village of Gela has 3 churches and 12 chappels. Remarkable for such a small village of just 50 people. Yes, that's how many people live in this village, high in the Bulgarian part of the Rhodopes Mountains. It hasn't always been like this - the village had over 1000 inhabitants and 30,000 sheep.

This church is situated in the center of Gela, abouve Hotel Gela and is different from other churches in the village and the region. As you can see on the picture, it is painted blue, floor to ceiling, which is typical for the Russian Orthodox churches, but not for Bulgarian. Why? Because in the beginning of the 20th century, the local priest, serving in the church was of a Russian descendant; he was called Otets (Father) Nikolay. I'am yet to discover the full story, which I am planning to do on my next visit to the village.

Beatiful church!