As the capital of a former communist country, Sofia has a number of imposing monuments and landmarks that recall the long history of Bulgaria. Make sure that you will take this self guided walking tour to visit some of the most amazing and important attractions in Sofia.
1) Central Sofia Synagogue
The Sofia Synagogue is thought to be the largest synagogue in southeastern Europe, and the third largest on the whole continent. The church was designed by Friedrich Gruenanger in a Spanish Moorish style back in 1905. Located in the very heart of the city, it can accommodate 1,300 worshipers. One of its main features is the central luster, which weighs two tons.
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2) Saint Sofia Church
Saint Sofia Church is the oldest Eastern Orthodox church in the city. The first church on the site was built as long ago as the era of Byzantine Emperor Justinian, between 527 and 565. By the 14th Century, the church had given its name to the city. The present church building is very large, with three altars.
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3) The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
This tomb was erected in the memory of the soldiers who died defending their mother country. The Monument to the Unknown Soldier features an eternal flame as well as turf from Stara Zagora and Shipka Pass.
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4) Ivan Vazov Grave
Ivan Vazov was a well-known Bulgarian writer. His grave is situated behind the Saint Sofia Basilica in the center of the capital. The boulder for the grave was brought from Vitosha Mountain.
5) Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is Sofia's most imposing religious building. This Bulgarian Orthodox Cathedral, with many features of a neo-byzantine style, is one of the largest cathedrals on the globe.
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6) The Levski Monument
The Levski Monument was erected in memory of Vasil Levski - a major revolutionary figure in Bulgaria who began life as a monk and was later hanged by the Turks in 1873. The monument, which is 13 meters tall, was created in grey granite by architect Antonín Kolář.
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7) The Building of Bulgaria’s National Assembly
The Building that houses Bulgaria's National Assembly is one the country's most important cultural monuments. Designed in a neo-renaissance style, it has played a central role in the history of Bulgaria.
8) Tzar Liberator Monument
This monument was erected in the memory of the Russian Tzar Alexander ІІ, who abolished serfdom and won the Russian-Turkish War, liberating Bulgaria from Ottoman rule. The neo-classical style monument and its figurines were created by Italian sculptor Arnoldo Zocchi.
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9) Memorial of Communist Victims
This memorial was erected to commemorate the victims of the Communist regime. Standing in remembrance of all those who were shot, condemned and imprisoned, the memorial encapsulates the suffering of the whole Bulgarian nation.
10) National Palace of Culture
The National Palace of Culture is the country's largest conference, congress and exhibition center. Opened in 1981, the multifunctional center plays host to various conferences, exhibitions and shows throughout the year.
Image Courtesy of Wikimedia and Nikola Gruev