Orthodox Sofia: Symbols, Faith & Everyday Life

Sofia’s Sacred Treasures: Ancient Orthodox Churches Tour

Step inside some of Europe’s oldest functioning churches, dating back to 313 AD.

Perfect for travelers with limited time who want a rich cultural experience.

Gain insights from an expert guide in theology and local history.

Discover the unique blend of Sofia’s sacred heritage, art, and architecture.

Itinerary

1. Saint Sofia Church · 30 min

   The Saint Sofia Church was built on the site of several earlier churches from the fourth century, and places of worship dating back to the days when it was the necropolis of the Roman town of Serdica. Travelers will visit also the necropolis of the church

2. St. Alexander Nevski Cathedral · 10 min

   . Built in Neo-Byzantine style, it serves as the cathedral church of the Patriarch of Bulgaria and it is one of the 50 largest Christian church buildings by volume in the world.

3. The Rotunda Church of St George · 15 min

   It is one of the oldest functioning churches in Europe build in early 4-th century. The building, a cylindrical domed structure built on a square base, is famous for the 12th-, 13th-, and 14th-century frescoes inside the central dome

4. Ancient Orthodox Church Saint Parascheva - the Old "St. Petka" · 10 min

   The church was first mentioned in the 16th century and was constructed at the place of a former Roman religious building. It is today a monument of culture known for its mural paintings from the 14th, 15th, 17th and 19th century depicting biblical scenes.

5. Catholic Cathedral of St Joseph · 5 min

   The cathedral, rebuilt at its previous location after it was destroyed by Allied bombing raids during World War II, was inaugurated on 21 May 2006 in the presence of Cardinal Secretary of State Angelo Sodano, Dean of the College of Cardinals. The foundation stone of the new cathedral was laid personally by Pope John Paul II during his visit to Bulgaria in 2002.

6. Holy Trinity Romanian Orthodox Church · 5 min

   The construction is a nave one with three domes in Romanian style of 18th century. The exceptionally beautiful frescoes inside were done by the famous icon-painter masters, the altar and furniture are of high quality oak wood with fine carving.

7. "Saints Cyril and Methodius" Church · 10 min

   This is one of the first churches in Sofia which was built after the liberation of Bulgaria when Sofia became a capital of Bulgaria.

What's included

• Tickets for transportation
• Ticket for Ancient Necropolis of Saint Sofia EUR 4.00 per person
• Ticket of the Medieval Church Saint Petka EUR 3.00 per person
• Guide -Expert

What's not included

• Gratuities

Meeting point

Start time

09:00

End point

Languages

In-person guide: English

Travellers

• Infant (0–2)
• Child (3–12)
• Youth (13–18)
• Adult (19–65)
• Senior (66–120)

Options

• Orthodox Sofia: Symbols, Faith & Everyday Lifefrom €35

  Start time: 09:00

  In-person guide: English

Additional information

• Wheelchair accessible
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• The tour includes the travel time from place to place

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.