📖 About Sofia

Sofia is Bulgaria's capital and largest city, one of Europe's oldest continuously inhabited cities with settlement dating back 7,000 years. With approximately 1.3 million residents, this mountain-ringed city at 550m elevation combines Roman ruins, Ottoman mosques, Orthodox churches, and Soviet-era monuments in a unique urban landscape.

Vitosha Mountain provides a dramatic backdrop and year-round recreation. The city has transformed from a communist-era capital to a dynamic EU member state city with growing IT sector and vibrant cultural scene. Sofia represents Bulgarian identity—ancient heritage, Orthodox faith, and a nation bridging East and West.

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💼 Economy & Culture

Sofia drives Bulgaria's economy—IT and outsourcing have grown substantially. Finance, manufacturing, and services concentrate here. EU membership brought investment. The city generates over 40% of Bulgaria's GDP. Young professionals and IT sector growth are transforming the economy despite lower wages than Western Europe.

Bulgarian Orthodox culture is central—churches and monasteries define the cityscape. Bulgarian language uses Cyrillic script. Traditional festivals, folk music, and dance continue. Food features shopska salad, banitsa (cheese pastry), and grilled meats. The culture blends Slavic, Orthodox, and Mediterranean influences—hospitable, family-oriented, and proud of ancient heritage.

📜 History

Settlement began in the Neolithic era. Thracian tribes, then Romans (Serdica) occupied the site—Emperor Constantine considered it for his capital. Bulgarian medieval states, Ottoman rule (1382-1878), and Russian liberation shaped the city.

Sofia became capital of liberated Bulgaria (1879). Communist era (1944-1989) brought rapid industrialization and standardized architecture. Democratic transition has been gradual. EU membership (2007) accelerated development. Today Sofia is Europe's hidden gem—ancient city, mountain capital, and dynamic young European destination.