Gaze up into the airy nave of the St. Sofia Church and admire its breathtaking collection of gilded artifacts. The church is one of a string of temples that have stood on this site since the 4th century and its history is closely interwoven with that of the city. Learn about the archaeological excavations that have uncovered four different temples that were built, destroyed and remade with new myths and legends.
The church you see today was built in the 6th century on the foundation of an earlier Christian temple and the former necropolis of the ancient town of Serdika. The monumental cross-basilica is an outstanding example of the architectural symmetry of Early Christian designs. Enter the church to admire its fascinating interior. You’ll see a stunningly complex mosaic featuring decorations of plants and animals spreading across the floor.
Examine the ornate sculptures and paintings on the church’s three altars. Find icons of historical saints, such as St. George and St. Vladimir. You will also see monuments to St. Sofia, the city’s patron saint. This saint represents the Divine Wisdom and Sophia the Martyr. It is believed the saint’s presence has protected the church from the numerous natural disasters and religious transformations that the city has experienced.
Between the 11th and 14th centuries, St. Sofia Church was heralded as the metropolitan church and its name was given to the city. Imagine the historic congregations that would have regularly filled this fascinating Early Christian building as you admire the gilded paintings in the nave.
The Ottoman Dominion of the 16th century saw the church transformed into a mosque. Two earthquakes in the 19th century destroyed the minaret and the mosque was abandoned. Note the church’s artful restoration, which began in the 1900s.
St. Sofia Church is located to the east of the historic center of the city. It is less than 30 minutes’ walk from the central railway station. The church is free to visit and open daily. Nearby, you’ll find the National Art Gallery and the Cathedral of St. Alexander Nevski.
