Sofia University, Sofia

Sofia University "Saint Kliment Ohridski" is a well-established public research institution located in Sofia. This university holds the distinction of being the oldest higher education institution in the country. Its origins date back to October 1, 1888, and its impressive campus was built between 1924 and 1934 with generous financial backing from the brothers Evlogi Georgiev and Hristo Georgiev, whose sculptures now adorn its facade. The university spans an area of 18,624 square meters and boasts a total of 324 different premises.

When it was initially established, Bulgaria had only recently achieved independence. At that time, Sofia University began its journey as a higher pedagogical course, later evolving into a higher school within a few months, and finally obtaining university status in 1904. The university's first rector was the renowned Bulgarian linguist Aleksandar Teodorov-Balan.

Today, Sofia University comprises 16 faculties and three departments, serving as an educational institution for over 21,000 students. It consistently ranks as the top university in Bulgaria, earning recognition from both national and international rankings. Notably, it consistently ranks within the top four percent of world universities according to the QS World University Rankings.

In 2001, Sofia University achieved another milestone by becoming the first Bulgarian Athenaeum to establish a Theological Faculty, overseen by the national Orthodox Church, marking a significant development after the fall of communism.