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This unique 2-hour walking experience moves swiftly through Sofia's archaeological and historical heart. Then the adventure culminates with exclusive access to the University Astronomical Observatory.

Highlights

• Get exclusive access to the University Astronomical Observatory in Sofia.
• Look through an original, historic telescope to see the beauty of space.
• We uniquely explore Bulgaria's overlooked scientific and intellectual heritage.
• Explore and discusse the turbulent early 20th century.
• Contrast the ancient Serdica ruins with the peaceful Boris' Garden.

Description

Your experience begins promptly at 17:30 at the Saint Nedelya Church, a central landmark that serves as the starting point for our deep dive into Sofia's dynamic past. Standing here, you will learn about the turbulent and dynamic history of the early 20th century, specifically the church’s reconstruction following the devastating 1925 bombing—the deadliest terrorist attack in Bulgaria's modern history, which tragically claimed numerous high-ranking officials and civilians. From this dramatic recent history, we travel back in time to the Roman foundations. We explore the archaeological core of the ancient city of Serdica, where layers of civilization are visible beneath modern streets. This includes a visit to the Rotunda of Saint George, Sofia’s oldest preserved building, a 4th-century church hidden within the city's modern architecture. We will analyze the Triangle of Power—the cluster of Presidential and governmental buildings constructed directly over these ruins, symbolizing the city’s continuous, layered history from the Romans to the present day. Our route continues through the heart of the capital, past the National Assembly building and the grand façade of Sofia University. Here, the narrative shifts to Bulgaria’s intellectual rebirth, showcasing how the newly liberated nation prioritized education and science, leading directly to the founding of its first higher educational institution in 1888. Leaving the dense urban core, we transition to the serene pathways of Boris’ Garden (Borisova Gradina), the oldest and largest park in Sofia, affectionately nicknamed 'The Lungs of Sofia'. Designed in the 1880s, the park is a symbol of modern urban planning that integrated recreation and learning.   The tour culminates at the University Astronomical Observatory, a true hidden gem of Bulgarian science. Built in 1892/94, it is recognized as one of the oldest astronomical institutions in the Balkans. You will receive a guided visit to this pioneering scientific complex, learning about the nation’s first astronomers and viewing historic instruments still housed in its dome.   The highlight of the experience is the opportunity to connect with the cosmos itself. If the evening sky is clear, travelers will have the rare and extraordinary chance to look through the original telescopes —such as the still-functional 15.2cm Grubb Refractor —and witness the mesmerizing beauty of Space.   This immersive, approximately 4-hour experience transforms a city walk into an intellectual adventure, linking ancient history and 20th-century struggles to the enduring scientific aspiration of gazing upward.

Includes

Highly professional and educated guide 2-hours walking tour of Sofia's historical center Guided visit to Sofia's observatory Entrance ticket for the Observatory

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund