Central Mineral Baths (Sofia History Museum)
Централна минерална баня
A Secession-style bathhouse completed in 1913, now the Sofia History Museum. Outside, residents line up to fill bottles with free mineral water.
The Central Mineral Baths were built in 1913. Their façade blends Vienna Secession with Bulgarian-Byzantine decoration, and colorful ceramic tiles and symmetrical arcades make them stand out. The baths closed in 1986 and now house the Sofia Regional History Museum, which presents the city's history from prehistory and Roman Serdica through the kingdom era, including King Ferdinand's carriage. Beside the building, a public drinking fountain pours out mineral water at about 40°C around the clock, and residents often come with large bottles to fill up. The surrounding garden is good for photos. The museum is closed on Mondays, and admission costs several euros.
Opening hours
Museum approx. 10:00–18:00; closed Mondays
Nearby sights
- Banya Bashi Mosque
- Ancient Serdica Complex
- Central Sofia Market Hall
- Church of St. George Rotunda
- National Archaeological Museum
- Sofia Synagogue
- St Nedelya Church
- Zhenski Pazar (Women's Market)