Friday, August 28, 2009

Top Tourists Sights For Sofia City Breaks

By Dave Smithers

This year's vacations must include Sofia city breaks. Lovers of Russian culture will find a whole new world of both the old and the new in this modern city of over a million people. Sofia is the 12th largest city in the European Union, offering a lively nightlife and an enriching, historical experience. There are buildings and ruins dating back thousands of years. Put Sofia on your list of places you must visit.

See glorious old churches

Set among a beautifully attended garden is the 14th century Boyana Church. Inside is an astounding assortment of medieval frescos. This art is so susceptible to atmospheric conditions that tourists can only view them for 10 minutes. Replicas can be seen in a nearby museum. Then there's the Aleksander Nevski memorial church, which was completed in 1924. It's the country's finest piece of Balkan architecture. The shimmering gold leaf inside was donated by the Soviet Union. It holds 5, 000 people.

Astonishing evidence of former Muslim culture

Close to Sofia's famous mineral springs and baths lies the Banya Bashi mosque. It dates back to 1576. Shortly after it was built, Muslims in Bulgaria were expelled by communists and the mosque fell into disrepair. After being abandoned for hundreds of years, the European Union stepped in with an injection of cash and Muslim worshipers have returned. Another mosque, Buyuk Djami, is now a museum to display artifacts from the extinct Thracian culture. It also boasts Roman and Greek artifacts found through out the country.

Discover Bulgaria's native animals

On Boulevard Tsar Osvoboditel is Sofia's Natural Science Museum, home to a thriving collection of native animals. It was built in 1889 and houses a comprehensive display of local horticulture and wildlife. A spectacular Russian church is mere steps away from the museum. It was built in 1913 by a Tsarist diplomat who, fearing his immortal doom by worshiping in a Bulgarian church, had his own edifice built. One of its amazing features is an emerald spire and bright yellow tiles.

High on Sofia's mountain

Mount Vitosha, famous for its natural vistas, natural hiking trails and winter sports is located just 7 km from Sofia's city centre. Experience life with villagers as you make your way to the base of the mountain. You'll stroll through villages in the foothills on the way to Mount Vitosha. Bring a picnic lunch and in the winter, make sure to pack your downhill or cross country skis. The lifts are open from late December to mid-March.

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