What Is the History of Sofia?The history of Sofia, the capital city of Bulgaria, extends back thousands of years, with evidence of Thracian settlement and ancient temples being discovered there. Sofia has since gone through numerous changing periods, including a period of Romaic, Byzantine, and Ottoman rule. Today, the modern city is an interesting mix of ancient and modern architecture and culture.Located in the foothills of the Balkan Mountains, the area that is now modern-day Sofia was initially settled by Thracians as a livestock breeding site in 6th century BCE. Evidence of this can still be seen today in the numerous Thracian and Roman ruins that still remain in the city. During this period, Sofia was known as a large borough of Serdica, which was then the capital of Dacia, an ancient Roman province from 106 CE to 271 CE. When the Roman Empire weakened, the area was conquered by the Visigoths and eventually came under the rule of the Byzantine Empire in 447 AD. A stronghold for the Byzantines, Sofia served as a refuge for Emperor Justinian’s True Cross during the Iconoclastic Wars of 726-843 AD. It also received its name – “Sophia” – meaning “wisdom” – during this time. The city’s fortunes took a turn in 1204 when it became part of the Latin Empire following the Fourth Crusade. It was then taken by Bulgaria in 1382 and served as its capital city until the Ottoman Empire annexed it in 1385. The city remained part of the Ottoman empire until 1878, experiencing attacks, sieges, and occupations by the Second Bulgarian Empire, Serbia, and Wallachia during this time. In 1878, Bulgaria declared its independence and Sofia became its official capital city. Sofia saw a period of much growth during this time and was declared an elected monarchy in 1908. As World War I approached, Sofia’s population increased significantly due to many Christians from other parts of Europe relocating there. After a period of civil war from 1918-1922, Bulgaria fell under Communist rule in 1944 and remained until 1989 when it declared its independence from the Soviet Union. Since then, Sofia has become an important political, financial, cultural and educational center for Bulgaria. It is home to numerous universities, theaters and museums and its population continues to grow. According to available statistics, the current population of Sofia is estimated to be 1.3 million people with an estimated 20% of these people being foreign citizens. The modern city retains many traces of its past while continually reforming itself as a thriving cultural center of Eastern Europe with many churches, old castles, and square parks providing evidence to its long history. To learn more about the fascinating history behind this city, visitors can visit the more than fifteen museums located around Sofia or read up on it at Sofia Experience which is a great resource for travelers looking for more detailed information about Sofia’s history. Overall, Sofia is an exciting destination that reveals much about its dynamic past as one navigates its eclectic mixture of ancient ruins and modern constructions. From early Thracian cultures to vibrant modern times, the history of Sofia is a remarkable one that needs to be explored in order to truly understand this unique city’s character.

An Insider’s Guide to Sofia, Bulgaria

Sofia is the largest city and capital of Bulgaria. Founded over 2,000 years ago, Sofia has a rich and diverse history, with influences from Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman, and Soviet regimes. Today, Sofia is a vibrant city with a blend of modern and historic architecture, delicious local cuisine, and a thriving arts and culture scene. Here’s an insider’s guide to the best that Sofia has to offer:

Local Attractions

Sofia is home to several must-see attractions, including:

• Alexander Nevsky Cathedral: One of the largest Eastern Orthodox cathedrals in the world, the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is a stunning example of Neo-Byzantine architecture.
• National Palace of Culture: A cultural complex that houses several theaters, galleries, and museums, as well as a beautiful park and fountain.
• Vitosha Mountain: A popular destination for hiking and skiing, Vitosha Mountain is located just outside the city and offers breathtaking views of Sofia and beyond.
• Sofia Central Market Hall: A bustling indoor market with vendors selling fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and baked goods.

Dining Spots

Sofia is known for its delicious and affordable local cuisine. Here are some of the best dining spots in the city:

• Shtastlivitsa: A traditional Bulgarian restaurant that serves hearty dishes like grilled meats, stews, and homemade bread.
• Nikoo: A cozy restaurant that specializes in Mediterranean dishes like grilled seafood, pasta, and risotto.
• Bar Sputnik: A trendy bar that serves craft cocktails and small plates, with a laid-back atmosphere and live music.
• Bistro Pestera: A hidden gem that serves Balkan cuisine, with dishes like meatballs, stuffed peppers, and baklava.

Cultural Experiences

Sofia is a city with a thriving arts and culture scene. Here are some of the best cultural experiences to have in Sofia:

• National Art Gallery: A museum that houses the largest collection of Bulgarian art in the country, with works from the Middle Ages to contemporary art.
• National Museum of History: A museum that showcases Bulgaria’s rich and diverse history, with exhibits ranging from ancient Thracian artifacts to communist-era memorabilia.
• Sofia Opera and Ballet: A beautiful theater that hosts performances of opera, ballet, and classical music throughout the year.
• National Palace of Culture: In addition to its theaters and galleries, the National Palace of Culture hosts cultural events like film festivals, concerts, and art exhibitions.

Local History

Sofia has a long and complex history, with influences from many different civilizations over the centuries. Here are some of the most important historical sites to visit in Sofia:

• Serdika Archaeological Complex: An ancient Roman city that was unearthed during construction of the city’s metro system. The complex includes ruins of streets, buildings, and public baths.
• Boyana Church: A beautiful medieval church that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with stunning frescoes and an intriguing history.
• St. George Rotunda: A 4th-century church that is one of the oldest buildings in Sofia, with beautiful frescoes and mosaics.
• Communist-era monuments: While Bulgaria has been a democracy since 1989, there are still several monuments and buildings that date back to the country’s communist era, including the Monument to the Soviet Army and the former Party House.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re looking for something a little more unique in Sofia, here are some off-the-beaten-path suggestions:

• Rila Monastery: Located about 2 hours outside Sofia, the Rila Monastery is a stunning example of medieval Bulgarian architecture, with intricate frescoes and a peaceful atmosphere.
• Kremikovtsi Monastery: A smaller, lesser-known monastery that is located just outside Sofia, with beautiful murals and a tranquil setting.
• Central Sofia Cemetery: While it may seem macabre, the Central Sofia Cemetery is a beautiful park that is the final resting place of many Bulgarian luminaries, including writers, politicians, and artists.
• Kopitoto Peak: A mountain peak located just outside Sofia, with breathtaking views of the city and surrounding countryside.

Sofia is a city with so much to offer, from its rich history to its vibrant cultural scene, delicious food, and natural beauty. With this insider’s guide, you’ll be able to make the most of your time in this fascinating city.