Bulgarian properties sofia: Church of Sveta (Saint) Sofia

Sitting adjacent to the Nevski Cathedral, and looking much more modest, is the red brick Church of St. Sofia, a recently restored Byzantine church which gave its name (meaning "holy wisdom") to the city in the late 14th century.

Today, it is the oldest Eastern Orthodox church in Sofia, and the second oldest building in the city, with a long and fascinating history. It was built on the site of several earlier churches and places of worship dating back to the days when it was the necropolis of the Roman town Serdica (named after the Thracian Serdii tribe who originally inhabited the area).

In the 2-nd century CE, it was, ironically enough, the location of a theatre used by the Romans for bloody public spectacles, such as the persecution and sacrifice of Christians in battles against gladiators and various wild beasts.

Over the next few centuries, several other churches were erected, only to be destroyed by invading forces such as the Goths and the Huns.

The basic cross design of the present basilica, with its two east towers and one tower-cupola, is probably the fifth structure to inhabit the site and was built during the reign of Byzantine emperor Justinian in the middle of the 6-th century.

During the Ottoman period of Bulgarian history, a minaret was added which functioned as a mosque. Earthquakes in 1818 and 1858 destroyed the minaret and the mosque was more or less abandoned for some years before restoration work began.

After recent renovations (some is still being done), the church is open and well worth visiting. Open 7:00-18:00. Admission free.

Source: www.sofiaecho.com