Sofia
Explore Sofia, the capital and the largest city in Bulgaria, with more than 7000 years of history. The city is located in the western part of Bulgaria in the Sofia Valley, at an altitude of approximately 550 meters above sea level. The valley is situated at the foot of Vitosha Mountain. Sofia spreads over a territory of 1,311 sq. km. and has many mineral springs.
Over the years, Sofia has changed significantly. Nowadays, it is a vibrant city with its unique spirit, multicultural environment, and hidden gems. In 2013, Sofia was ranked as the most affordable capital to visit in Europe. Therefore, if you decide to visit and explore Sofia, there are a huge variety of possibilities for your stay. From large international and national hotel chains to small family-run hotels, hostels, and Airbnb, there is something for everyone.
There are many things that you can do, visit and explore in Sofia. For example, in 1979, the Boyana Church in Sofia was included on the World Heritage List, holding much patrimonial symbolism for the Bulgarian Orthodox Church. Moreover, Sofia is home to the National Opera and Ballet of Bulgaria, the National Palace of Culture, the Vasil Levski National Stadium, the Ivan Vazov National Theatre, the National Archaeological Museum, and the Serdica Amphitheatre. In addition, when you get hungry, Sofia offers many exciting places where you can have a taste of the local or international cuisine.
Nowadays, Sofia hosts some 1.24 million residents within a territory of 492 km, a concentration of 17.9% of the country's population. The urban area of Sofia hosts some 1.54 million residents within 5723 km², which comprises Sofia City Province and parts of Sofia Province. Nonetheless, the Thracian town arose around 7000 years ago from the ancient Neolithic settlements that were established around the thermal springs that have been preserved until today.
Later, the Romans named the town Serdica after its inhabitants, the ancient Thracian tribe of Serdi. Some findings from this epoch give evidence to the presence of a flourishing Thracian settlement in the historical city centre of Sofia, which remains in the same location to present days. The population of Sofia declined from 70,000 in the late 18th century, through 19,000 in 1870, to 11,649 in 1878, after which it began increasing.
Another interesting fact is that Sofia, unlike many other European capitals, is not located near a large river, but it is surrounded by comparable high mountains in all directions. There are three mountain passes, which have been important roads since antiquity, that lead to Sofia city. Therefore, a fascinating place to visit and explore in close proximity to Sofia is Vitosha Mountain, where you can enjoy stunning views of Sofia from above and participate in many nature activities.