Monastery of the Holy Virgin Spileotisa - is one of the most valuable cultural and historical monuments in Melnik. It is located in a picturesque location, on the east side of the hill of St. Nicholas, south of the town of Melnik.

The monastery was built in the beginning of the XIII century by order of Despot Alexius Slav. It represents one of the earliest examples of a typical monastery architecture of this historical period. Built on top of inaccessible terrain, it is part of the fortress of the Bulgarian ruler Glory. The monastery has a separate strengthening and self defense system.

It has survived only the ruins of the monastery. Quite a large complex was built on the classical scheme and had a canonical structure of medieval monasteries. There is a refectory, monks' cells, the abbot room, room for guests, a library, a defensive tower. On the territory of the monastery was a cemetery chapel and two churches - "Holy Virgin Spileotisa" and "Saint Spiridon".

The monastery became famous for reading and writing, which was published Alexy of Fame in 1220. It monastery called "despotskoy and aqua." So far, history has known of the existence of another monastery, having a similar status. Thanks to this monastery of the Holy Virgin of particular national and historical importance.

Over the years, the monastery complex and priests who lived here have undergone a lot of troubles. Since the second half of the XIV century. before the beginning of the XX century. Three times he was subjected to destruction and rebuilding. Several times changed the name of the monastery. During the XVII to XIX century the monastery was called "Light Zone", which translated means "Holy area." Around the middle of the XIX century it gradually began to fall into disrepair and completely ceased to function after the start of the First World War.

Today the monastery is part of the current status. In 40 years on the foundation of the old church was built a chapel "Light Zone". Despite the fact that the medieval monastery remained only ruins, this place is still revered as sacred.