Wednesday, 25 November 2009

Must See Sights On Sofia City Breaks


By Dave Smithers

This year's vacations must include Sofia city breaks. Lovers of Russian culture will find a whole new world of both the old and the new in this modern city of over a million people. Sofia is the 12th largest city in the European Union, offering a lively nightlife and an enriching, historical experience. There are buildings and ruins dating back thousands of years. Put Sofia on your list of places you must visit.

See glorious old churches

Set among a beautifully attended garden is the--th century Boyana Church. Inside is an astounding assortment of medieval frescos. This art is so susceptible to atmospheric conditions that tourists can only view them for 10 minutes. Replicas can be seen in a nearby museum. Then there's the Aleksander Nevski memorial church, which was completed in'24. It's the country's finest piece of Balkan architecture. The shimmering gold leaf inside was donated by the Soviet Union. It holds 5, 000 people.

Revel in rebirth of Muslim heritage

Banya Bashi mosque is over 425 years old, built in 1576 and is close to Sophia's famous mineral baths. When the Communist government persecuted Muslims in Bulgaria, the mosque was abandoned. It stood in decay for many years but is being renovated using funds from the European Union and is again open for worship. Buyuk Djami, which translated means "Big Mosque" houses the National Archaeological Museum. There exhibits of ancient Thracian, Roman and Greek artifacts belonging to Bulgaria.

Fascinating natural history museums

The Natural Science Museum, opened'89, is situated on Sofia's Boulevard Tsar Osvoboditel. Inside is a meticulously kept archive of Bulgarian wildlife, including lizards and snakes. Next to the museum is a fascinating Russian church with a glorious exterior of vivid tiles, several gilded domes and an amazing spire all in emerald. The'13 church was built by a diplomat who was fearful that praising God in a Bulgarian church would send him straight to hell.

Spectacular mountain vistas

Sofia is in close proximity to Mount Vitosha, approximately 7 km from Sofia's city centre. Hang out with local villagers and enjoy long walks and hearty picnics. In the winter, ski with lifts operating in December through to mid-March from Dragalevtsi and Simeonovo.

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