Hagia Sophia Church
Базилика „Света София“
A 6th-century Byzantine cathedral built of red brick. The city's name, Sofia, comes from it, and an underground museum displays a Roman necropolis.
St. Sophia Church was built in the 6th century under Justinian and is the second-oldest church in Sofia. From the 14th century, the city was named after it. Its simple, cross-shaped red-brick structure contrasts with the gilded domes of Alexander Nevsky Cathedral across the way. The underground museum displays burials dating from the 4th century onward, early church foundations and mosaic floors. Along the outer walls are the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and an eternal flame, beside the grave of the poet Ivan Vazov. Entry to the church is free, but the underground museum charges admission.
Opening hours
Approx. 07:00–19:00 (underground museum closed Mondays)
Nearby sights
- St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
- Russian Church of St. Nicholas
- Kvadrat 500 (National Gallery)
- Ivan Vazov National Theatre & City Garden
- National Archaeological Museum
- Seven Saints Church
- Central Mineral Baths (Sofia History Museum)
- Church of St. George Rotunda