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Sophia, Bulgaria
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Sophia, Bulgaria
Sofia
is a city that grows but never
ages. Founded over 7,000 years ago, Bulgaria's modern capital
testifies to the country's eternal bond between past and present.
Monuments to its rich Thracian, Roman, Bulgar and Ottoman history
rub shoulders with modem-day edifices of cosmopolitan city life.
Over 250 historic landmarks and architectural monuments blend in
with the city's modern skyline.
Despite various Byzantine ruins and mosques attesting to a long,
colourful history, many of Sofia's historic grandeur has been lost.
Some of its most impressive architecture post-dates Bulgaria's
Liberation of 1878. Wide tree-lined boulevards house numerous
turn-of-the-century stuccoed buildings. Sofia's protective fortress
walls for 12 centuries, straddle the city centers where remnants of
the original Serdica settlement (2nd Century) still lie. Major
landmarks include the St George Rotunda, part of a large
archeological complex with rare Roman architectural features; the
Sveta Sofia Basilica which inspired the city's coat of arms; the
Alexandar Nevski Cathedral, whose magnificent icons and frescoes are
world famous; and the Boyana Church on Sofia's outskirts - a listed
UNESCO building - a fine example of Medieval architecture with
unique wall paintings.
Other tourist attractions include: the Church of
Sveta Nedelya, the Banya Bashi Mosque (16th century) and nearby
Turkish baths, the Hall covered market and clock tower Synagogue,
the National History Museum, the Sveta Petka Saamardzhiiska Church,
the Russian Church, the Alexandar Batenberg Square, the flea market,
antique shops and cafes around the Kristal Square, the tree-lined
Alexsandar Nevski Square, named after its famous Cathedral, and the
international art collection housed in the St. St. Cyril and
Methodius Foundation.
The area surrounding Sofia is rich in natural beauty. The
tranquillity and charm of Mount Vitosha offers ideal spots for
picnics or walking in the summer and superb skiing in the winter.
The picturesque villages at its foothills are just a short tram or
bus ride away from the bustling capital.
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