Saint Sophia Church

This 6th-century church gave Sofia its name and is one of the oldest churches in Europe. Originally built during the reign of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, it has served as a mosque and a museum through the centuries. Below the church, you can explore ancient Roman ruins and early Christian tombs in the underground archaeological museum.

Visiting the Church of Saint Sophia is not just a walk to a historical site — it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in over 1,500 years of history. Here, you can witness how different cultures and religions intertwine and discover why this very church gave its name to Bulgaria’s capital. If you want to truly experience the spirit of Sofia, this is one of the places you should start with. The Church of Saint Sophia is one of the most iconic historical and cultural landmarks in the Bulgarian capital.

A Journey Through the Centuries

Located in the very heart of Sofia, this is not just an ancient church, but a place that tells the story of the city across the ages — from Roman Serdica to the modern capital. It is this very church that gave Sofia its name and remains one of its most recognizable symbols.

The site itself has deep roots in antiquity. During the Roman period, when the city was known as Serdica, a vast necropolis was located here. Archaeological discoveries show that the area was used for burials from the 1st to the 4th century, with numerous tombs, sarcophagi, and early Christian symbols uncovered.

Over the following centuries, several Christian churches were built on this site one after another. The present basilica is the fourth in succession and was constructed in the 6th century during the reign of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I. His rule was marked by extensive construction of Christian churches throughout the empire, and Saint Sophia in Sofia stands as one of the notable examples.

Architecture and Significance

The church was built as a three-nave basilica, featuring an impressive yet clean architectural style typical of the early Christian period. Unlike later Orthodox churches, it has no domes, relying instead on harmonious proportions and a solid brick structure.

The name “Saint Sophia” means “Holy Wisdom” and carries deep theological significance. It is not dedicated to a specific saint, but symbolizes Christ as the embodiment of divine wisdom. The famous Hagia Sophia in Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul) bears the same name.

Over time, the importance of the church grew so much that during the Middle Ages, the city itself came to be known as Sofia — a name that has remained ever since.

The Archaeological Level – A Hidden Treasure

One of the most fascinating parts of the complex lies beneath the church itself. The archaeological level reveals:

• Ancient Roman tombs

• Early Christian mosaics

• Remains of earlier church structures

• Parts of the necropolis of ancient Serdica

This space allows visitors to literally descend through layers of history and experience the city’s development across the centuries.