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Free Sofia Tour's Blog

May 16, 2022

Bulgarian Modernist Architecture in Sofia – Top 8 Examples

Bulgarian modernism is one of Sofia’s best-kept secrets. It’s predominantly in the city center of Bulgaria’s capital where you’ll find prime examples of Bulgarian modernist architecture. Following WW1 and the two Balkan wars, Bulgaria saw a drastic change in the period between the two world wars. Naturally, that was also reflected in the architecture. History of Bulgarian Modernism The years between the two world wars in Bulgaria were a very dynamic period in terms of the changes in stylistic trends. The 1920s was a period of coexistence of different architectural trends such as Art Deco, echoes of Art Nouveau, and different eclectic styles. On the contrary, the beginning of the 1930s was the time of the consolidation of the new trend of the Modern Movement with its distinguishable features like the clearness of the form, functionality, lack of redundant ornamentation, horizontalism, etc. but sometimes with some elegant local taste. This was also the time of intensive growth of the urban population. As a result of that in Sofia, a great […]
February 22, 2019

The 8 Most Beautiful Buildings in Sofia

Sofia might not be your typical European capital when it comes to architecture and beautiful buildings. The city does not have an old town. Instead, there are various historical layers that form the city’s unique appearance. A mix of different architectural styles, old and new buildings. Of course, there are plenty of beautiful buildings in Sofia and everyone has their own preference. Here are our picks for Sofia’s most beautiful buildings: 1. Former Mineral Baths Functioning as a public bath from 1913 to 1986 this truly is one of Sofia’s unique buildings. It combines several architectural styles such as Vienna Secession with Byzantine, Bulgarian and Eastern Orthodox elements. Nowadays, the building houses the Sofia History Museum. 2. Ivan Vazov National Theatre The building carries the name of Bulgaria’s most beloved author – Ivan Vazov. The National Theatre is a favorite of a lot of locals. Not just because of its purpose and beautiful neoclassical architecture but also because of the park in front of it. Undoubttedly, it is one of […]