Fascinating Sights To See On Sofia City Breaks

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By: Dave Smithers
Submitted November 25th 2009 & consists of 388 words.
Located in our collection of holidays articles.

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If you love Russian culture, take a few Sofia city breaks this year. This ancient metropolis is home to over a million people. As one of the European Union’s largest urban areas, Sofia is rich in history. Archaeologists have uncovered civilizations dating back 7, 000 years. Evidence of 7th century culture is one if the most fascinating points of interest.

Breathtaking ancient churches

A fine example of Balkan architecture is The Aleksander Nevski memorial church. Built over 42 years beginning in’82, the church is Sophia’s premiere destination. Note the domes and half domes and the remarkable gold leaf, generously given to the congregation by the Soviet Union. The pews seat 5, 000 worshipers. The Boyana Church is surrounded by a quaint garden and inside is a magnificent collection of medieval frescoes. Dating back 600 years, they are so fragile that visitors are only allowed inside for 10 minutes at a time.

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.

Natural heritage preserved in Sofia

You’ll find both live and preserved wildlife at The Natural Science Museum, located on Boulevard Tsar Osvoboditel. It was built in’89 to house a collection of native species of plants and animals. Next door is a beautiful Russian church, built in’13. It is adorned with unusual yellow tiles, glittering domes and a unique, emerald green spire. It was built by a Tsarist diplomat for his exclusive use, believing that worshiping in a local church would bring harm to his soul.

Don’t miss Sofia’s mountain

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.

If you want to enjoy a unique holiday, book sofia city breaks at www.travelsoon.com/ today

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