Ritlite

To the west of the village of Lyutibrod, these imposing rock formations rise to a height of 60-80 m by the left bank of the Iskar River. They are organized in the shape of parallel stone walls which gradually increase up to 200 m in a western direction and reach a length of 200-500 m. These beautiful rocky formations are have been formed in the course of millions of years, circa 120, from limestone rocks. Scientists consider their formation a consequence of the once present warm sea in that area.

Among the most interesting rock forms of the Iskar Grge, Ritlite create strong impression on its visitors. In 1939, Ritlite were proclaimed a natural landmark. Today, they are a very popular tourist destination and climbing aim. The corridors that have formed between the parallel rocks are filled with deep broad-leaved forests. According to the local legends, once there was a iron gate that closed the way to the ancient Bulgarian fortress Serdika. Another legend tells that in ancient times the Roman fortress wall at Ritlite blocked the exit of the Iskar Gorge and was destroyed later. Not far away from Ritlite, in the skirts of the famous Cherepish rocks, is situated one of the well-know Bulgarian monasteries, the Cherepish Monastery named Uspenie Bogorodichno, built during the 14th century and a cultural and educational center of the country.