Your complimentary copy of the City®Info 4 OVErview Guide is available from hotel rooms, hotel receptions and other public areas at the following 18 Accommodation top-class Hotels & Services Apartments: HOTELS êêê 26 Restaurants êêêêê Hotel Villa Boyana Arena di Serdika Favorit Hotel 28 SHOPS Sofia Hotel Balkan Gloria Palace Hilton Hotel Montecito Hotel Holiday Inn Sofia Hotel Meg-Lozenetz Hotel 30 niGHT LIFE Intercontinental Hotel Park Hotel Moskva Sofia Place Hotel êêêê 32 Culture Art ‘Otel êê BWP Hotel Expo BW City Hotel The House Hotel 42 Bg in brrief BW Premier Sofia ê Coop Hotel easyHotel 46 useful Numbers Grami Hotel Madrid Hotel Maria Luisa Hotel Metropolitan Hotel Sofia City ® Info Guide Novotel Sofia Hotel Ramada Hotel Publisher: RENTAL DS Ltd. Design: RENTAL DS Ltd. APARTMENT RENTALS & HOSTELS Apartment House On the Cover: HARD (BULGARIAN AMBER COMPANY) Block 531 Translation: Translingua Ltd. Be My Guest Hostel Print: Janet 45 Ltd. 5 Vintage Marinella For Advertising, Bulk Orders and Subscriptions: (before 10th of the preceding month, please!) SUBSCRIPTION DIPLOMATIC MISSIONS Cell: 0896 717 225; 0888 311 884 OTHERS E-mail: [email protected] facebook.com/cityinfoguides.bulgaria Airport Sofia Inter Expo Center facebook.com/BulgariaInfoGuides Airline Companies Information Center Sofia Business Centres (Largo, Chitalnyata) All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be Galleries reproduced in any form or by any means without prior Car Hire Companies permission. Monthly circulation: 20 000 Central Bus Station Real Estate Agencies Cultural Institutes Top Restaurants & Bars Casinos Travel Agencies

COMMERCIAL AND ECONOMIC SECTION OF THE EMBASSY OF THE REPUBLIC OF BULGARIA IN: FRANCE, GERMANY, GREECE, KAZAKHSTAN, MONTENEGRO, , MOLDOVA, ROMANIA, SERBIA, SLOVAK REPUBLIC, SLOVENIA, THE NETHERLANDS, UK overview 3

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public organizations. Sofia accommodates also SOFIA CITY REGION the cultural institutions in Bulgaria. The capital city of Bulgaria is situated in the It has been given several names in the course of geographic center of Southeastern Europe thus history. serving as a natural bridge to the Middle East. • Serdika was the name of the central dwelling of the ancient Thracian tribe known as “Serdi”. • The toponym Sredets was indicative of its FACT & SYMBOLS central location on the Balkan Peninsula. When the city became part of the Bulgarian state at the beginning of the ninth century it acquired this Slavic name and it was soon recognized as one of the most important feudal towns. • Sofia – In nowadays the Bulgarian capital carries the name of St. Sofia (the holy Lady of wisdom), inspired by the name of the church St. Sofia. Sofia Municipality 33, Moskovska Str. (map E3) & 02 937 73 03 www.sofia.bg Population: 1 291 591 Area: 1 310, 8 sq. km The city : “Growing without aging” GDP: around 29% of the national GDP Sofia is the biggest and the most dynamic center of the economic life in Bulgaria. Half of the foreign direct investments in Bulgaria are concentrated in the capital. One third of the St. Sofia Church annual tax revenues in the national budget come from Sofia. The region occupies the central part of the CULTURAL HERITAGE Sofia Plain (with average altitude of 550 m) The cultural heritage of Sofia combines traces and it is encircled by the (in from the civilizations of the Neolith and the the north) and the Vitosha Mountain and the Thracians, of the ancient Greeks and Romans, Lyulin Mountain (in the south). The area has an of the Slavs and the proto- and the abundance of curative mineral springs (Gorna Ottomans, These tribes and ethnic groups Banya, Ovcha Kupel, Bankya). The Vitosha molded the face of the city through the victories Mountain is an international winter sports and defeats and through the consequent cultural destination. From ancient times, Sofia was well- influences. The socialist realism and the dynamic known as a spa centre, thanks to her 18 healing changes of modernity are still defining the mineral and thermal springs. Those springs development of Sofia and are also part of its have been drawing settlers and conquerors from inextinguishable charm. While be walking on ancient time to nowadays. They are depicted on the streets of Sofia today, people can still see the coat-of-arms of Sofia Municipality. the remnants from older civilizations can still be seen. THROUGH THE CENTURIES As early as the Neolithic age the territory of the Founded seven thousand years ago, Sofia is the present-day million city was inhabited by primitive second oldest European city. The city situated in societies. Archaeologists continue to discover the center of , and Macedonia has implements and devices from the Stone, Copper been the official center of the Bulgarian nation for and Bronze ages in the city and in its vicinity. 127 years, since shortly after the Liberation he There are more than 70 Eastern Orthodox was declared for the capital of Bulgaria. churches and monasteries, many of which have Sofia has been the capital of Bulgaria since April become emblematic for the Bulgarian capital. 3, 1879. It is the permanent seat of the National The city center is an eclectic mix of communist Assembly (the Parliament), the Presidency, era neoclassical and West European architecture, the Council of Ministers, the central governing which enchants with its aristocratic atmosphere bodies of various agencies, political parties and and Eastern charm. Bulgaria in Brief 5 6 Bulgaria in Brief Bulgaria in Brief 7 8 overview Sofia’s Symbols

National Assembly The University of Sofia (map E3) St. Kliment Ohridski The building of the National Assembly (map E4) (Parliament of the Republic of Bulgaria) is located on the square of the same name, situated on In front of the entrance to the oldest and largest Tsar Osvoboditel Blvd. Parliament is the state high school in Bulgaria is standing the bronze body of the legislature power in the country. The sculpture of the brothers Hristo and Evlogi building of the National Assembly was built after Georgievi, with the financial support of which it the Liberation in 1884 on the idea of Konstantin was built. Founded in 1888, in the 1904 the high Jovanovic, an architect from Vienna in Neo- school was declared a university. He is called Renaissance style. The slogan “The Unity Makes of the name of St. Kliment Ohridski, founder of the Strength” is written above the entrance of the the Ohrid Literary School. The building of the National Assembly. Against the Parliament is the Rectorate is located on Tsar Osvoboditel Blvd., monument of the Tzar-liberator Alexander II, and and today the university is the largest and most in close proximity are the Sofia University and St. prestigious research center in the country. Alexander Nevski Temple Church.

Monument to the Unknown Soldier (map E3) The Ivan Vazov National Theatre (map D3) From the south side of the “St. Sofia” basilica one In the ideal center of Sofia, once you find the Dyakon bronze guarded calm the peace of all known Ignatiy Street, the first to will attract your eyes is and unknown warriors who died in battles for the the impressive building of the National Theater. His Fatherland. In the sarcophagus under the lion are neoclassical architecture was the work of Viennese their remains. Behind this symbol of honor and self- architects Ferdinand Fellner and Herman Helmer. The sacrifice, next to the stone memorial plate, is burning construction of the theater began in 1904, but he was the eternal fire brought by Shipka. His flame symbolizes officially opened in 1907 with a special performance. the unshakeable relationship of today’s generations The theater, bearing the name of the patriarch of with the past. The monument is the place where the Ivan Vazov, always maintains a rich most important state ceremonies are held and the repertoire of contemporary and classic titles, some of national holiday is remarked, also and military parades which has been repeatedly presented to the public. are being held. According to the state and diplomatic Around the fountain in front of the theater are often held protocol, here is the place the foreign delegations put children’s fairs, concerts, charity events. on wreaths in sign of respect. overview 9 10 overview

Eagle’s bridge (map F4) Above the Perlovska River the wind hug the bronze “St. St. Cyril and Methodius” wings of four eagles. They are the guardians of the National Library bridge. Orlov most (Eagle’s Bridge) is located near the park Borisova gradina, Ariana Lake, (map F3) National Stadium and Sofia University. Built in honor Do you know the wonderful feeling of holding of the prisoners from Diarberkir, the Bridge, designed a book from paper in your hands? Breathe the in 1891 by Adolf Vaclav Kolar and Vaclav Proshek, is smell of ink? In the National Library, which bears the first crossroad, which to take you towards the heart the names of the Slavic first teachers - the holy of Sofia. brothers Cyril and Methodius, which founder the Cyrillic alphabet, there are over 7 million titles. Those titles are from all over the world. And they are in all language. The library, founded on 17 June 1879, was located in two different buildings, destroyed during the Anglo-American bombing over Sofia in 1944. Rebuilt and opened in 1953, today the National Library is the largest public repository of books in Bulgaria. Behind the Library is a Doctor’s Garden Park, in front of it - the National Academy of Arts, and next to it - the The Banya Bashi Mosque Sofia University, a metro station and bus stops, (map C2) restaurants and galleries. If you need a book, a magazine or just interesting information – The In 1567 the Ottoman architect Sinan raised a National Library is your place. mosque of red bricks and stones. On the arch above the door there is a stone on which is an inscription with paint, impossible to be reading. The mosque is active and today she can hold up to 1,200 people during the Bayram muslim fest, although its capacity is smaller. The name of this mosque, a remnant of the Ottoman rule, means “many baths”. She is called so, because was built over natural mineral springs.

Vitosha Boulevard (map C4) Do you want a peaceful walk along a beautiful street with a view to Vitosha Mountain? “Vitoshka” is your place. The famous boulevard starts from Sveta Nedelya Square, it passes through the ideal center of The archeological complex Sofia, crosses the Patriarch Evtimiy Blvd., continues of Honorius (map E3) along the National Palace of Culture and ends with the The archeological complex of Honorius is the most South Park. Numerous pubs and restaurants, souvenir important one of the 50 tombs found around the “Saint shops and ladies fashion, boutiques and cafes give it a Sophia Basilica”. The V-VI century complex is located bohemian look. Vitoshka is a preferred meeting place, in front of the Basilica and it is protected by a glass with benches for relax and with many flowers. Tourists construction that allows a view from above. This is the and citizens of Sofia often make his pictures until the only tomb of Late Antiquity in Bulgaria, where the name bronze sculpture of the great Bulgarian writer and of the deceased is given, with the inscription in both humorist Aleko Konstantinov, standing there. Latin and Greek. overview 11 12 overview

St. Alexander Nevski Temple Church (map E3) The Orthodox Patriarchal Cathedral impresses with its gilded domes. The main stone was set in 1882, but the design of the monument temple, made by the Russian architect Alexander Pomerantsev, began to be shaped only in 1904. Eight years later, in 1912, the cathedral was finished and she was named by name of Knyaz Alexander Nevski, proclaimed for a saint from St. Nikolai Russian Church the Russian Orthodox Church. The church with Neo- (map D3) Byzantine architecture and numerous small and large Especially for the needs of the Russian domes is the largest operating on the Balkan Peninsula immigrants in Sofia, between 1907 and 1914 and is a Bulgarian cultural monument of national began the construction of the Orthodox temple importance. Her crypt has been turned into a museum named St. Nikolai the Miracleworker. The of antique art where some of the most beautiful Russian Church, as the temple is well known, is Bulgarian icons and frescoes are exhibited. located at the crossroads of “Tsar Osvoboditel” Blvd. and “Rakovski” Str. In the crypt of the church is the grave of St. Serafim Sobolev, for who believers think that his holly remains are miraculous. In a special box next to the saint’s grave, people of all ages leave their prayers for health and well-being written on sheets of paper. The beautifully arranged garden in front of the church and benches for relax makes the Russian Church one of the most attractive places in the center of Sofia.

The Saint Sofia Basilica (map E3) The temple is the oldest and most sacred place St. George Rotunda Place in Sofia, which spread the city’s glory far, far (map C3) away in the Roman Empire. The name “St. At the insider courtyard between the buildings of Sophia” comes from Greek language and means the Presidency and the “Balkan” Hotel is rising “Wisdom of God”, one of the names of Jesus up the red bricks of the Orthodox temple “St. Christ. From here comes the name of Sofia city, George”. Built in the 4th century as Rotunda and and the basilica built in the IV century is closely declared as church in the 6th century, the building related to the history of the city. She was built on is the oldest preserved by the time of Emperor the foundations of older churches from the time Constantine the Greatest. The impressive of the Roman city of Serdica, and today there Rotunda is part of a larger archaeological is no bell. Of the southern side of the basilica complex in the ancient ruins of Serdica, called is the national memorial - the monument of Konstantine’s quarter, where the palace of the the Unknown Soldier, and the patriarch of the Emperor was. Since 2009, the restored rotunda Bulgarian literature Ivan Vazov is buried in the is an active temple, where is performed a daily garden on the eastern side of the church. worship in the Old . overview 13 14 overview

1 Archaelogical6 Museum Permanent and temporally exhibitions at: Prehistory 2 Hall, Vault, Central7 Hall, Middle Ages Hall. The famous Vulchitrun gold treasure is among the most 3 precious exhibits8 in Bulgaria’s oldest museum. 2, Saborna Str. 4 (next to the Bulgarian9 Nat. Bank) & 02 988 24 06 www.naim.bg 51Open: Tue-Sun,0 10.00-17.00

1 6

2 Earth and Man7 National Museum Unique mineralogical museum keeps more than 20 3 000 samples collected8 all over the world. 4, Cherni Vrah Blvd. 4 & 02 865 66 399 www.earthandman.org 1 Open: Tue-Sat, 610.00-18.00 510 2 7

3 8

4 National History9 Museum Museum contents more than 650 000 exhibits and is one of the largest history museums on the 51Balkans. Amazing0 recent Thracian gold discoveries. 1 Boyana, 16, Vitoshko6 Lale Str. (Residence Boyana, Palace 1) 2 & 02 955 42 807 www.historymuseum.org 3 Open: Mon-Sun,8 09.30 -18.00

4 9

51National Museum0 of Natural History - BAS The richest museum of natural history on the . Over a million specimens of animals, 1 6 plants and minerals. 1, Tsar Osvoboditel Blvd. 2 7 (near the Russian Church) www.nmnhs.com 3 8 & 02 987 41 95 Open: Mon–Sun, 10.00-18.00 4 9

510 Sofia 1700, 3, Prof. Boyan Kamenov Str. & 02/ 902 00 00 www.muzeiko.bg Open: Tue - Sun, 10:00 – 18:00 “Muzeiko” is a modern science center for children – the biggest one in Eastern Europe. It offers its visitors the opportunity to enjoy 13 theme exhibitions trough 130 interactive educational games and different spaces for creative activities. overview 15 16 overview

THE NATIONAL GALLERY The National Gallery is the biggest Bulgarian art museum. In its collection there are more than 42 000 works of art from Bulgaria, Europe, Asia, America and Africa. The departments of the National Gallery are: The Palace, Kvadrat 500, Museum of Christian Art, Museum of Socialist Art and Sofia Arsenal – Museum for Contemporary Art . http://www.nationalgallery.bg/ https://www.facebook.com/NacionalnaGaleriaBulgaria/ Tel. +3592 980 00 93 Opening times: Tuesday – Sunday , 10.00 – 18.00 Ticket office – 10.00 – 17.30 Closed on Mondays, Public holidays in Bulgaria, Christmas, New Year and Easter Tickets: 10/5 BGN - Kvadrat 500 6/3 BGN - The Palace, Museum of Christian Art, Museum of Socialist Art Admission free for Museum of Contemporary Art, as well as for children under 12 years, visitors with disabilities, students of art schools, employees of museums and galleries, members of ICOM,ICOMOS,AIAP,AICA, art organizations and press.

The Palace ROYAL PALACE 1, Knyaz Alexander I Square & +3592 980 00 93 Temporary exhibitions from famous Bulgarian and foreign museums, collections and artists.

Kvadrat 500 St. Alexander Nevsky Square 1, 19 February Str. & +3592 980 72 62, +3592 988 49 22 Over 2000 paintings, graphics and sculptures by Bulgarian and foreign artists are included in the representative exposition from the gallery collection in 28 halls on four levels. The works widely present the period of the Bulgarian Revival from 19th century and the modern and contemporary national art till the end of the 20th century. It is uniquely harmonized with art from Europe, Asia, Africa and America. KVADRAT 500 Museum of Christian Art at the Crypt of St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral Sofia, 1, St. Alexander Nevsky Square & +3592 981 57 75 The exposition presents the Christian art in the Bulgarian region. It includes the period from the official Christianisation of the Roman Empire in the 4th century untill the Bulgarian Revival (17th – 19th centuries): icons, religious wall paintings and church plate.

Museum of Christian Art

Museum of Socialist Art Sofia, 7 Lachezar Stanchev Str. & +3592 902 18 62 The museum presents Bulgarian art exsamples, created within the period 1940s – 1980s, thematically related to the socialist realism. The museum offers an exhibition hall and a sculpture park with typical works for this time and style – portraits of communist leaders, compositions with SOCIALIST ART MUSEUM partisans, workers, farmers etc.

Sofia Arsenal - Museum of Contemporary Art 2, Cherni Vrah Blvd www.samcaproject.org Temporary exhibitions of Bulgarian and foreign contemporary art.

SOFIA ARSENAL overview 17 18 Accommodation

Room Service TV in All Rooms Minibar in All Rooms Airconditioned Rooms Restaurant Bar Business Facilities Swimming Pool Fitness Facilities Casino Hotel Parking Credit Cards WiFi Handicape Room with good view

Please note: Number of stars according to the Bulgarian classification hotels

111, Alexandar Malinov Blvd. h 5 map back & 02 807 07 07 Public transport: fax: 02 807 07 08 B-413,113,213 e-mail:[email protected] www.hisofiahotel.com The hotel offers 130 luxurious en-suite bedrooms 2-4, Budapeshta Str. h 2 map D3 with separate bath and shower, flat screen TV & + 359 2 8 107 777 Public transport: and free high speed internet. The international cell: 0886 10 77 77 Tm -20, 22; Metro Executive Chef provides a variety of dining fax: +359 2 8 107 770 experiences ranging from an informal meal to e-mail: [email protected] a gourmet dinner at the Brasserie Restaurant & Terrace. 11 state-of-the-art conference suites for www.arenadiserdica.com up to 300 delegates at highly competitive rates. Double rooms - 40, Suites - 23 The unique ESPRIT Fitness & Spa club facilities Strategically located in the heart of the city, right include a 19m indoor swimming pool, indoor and next to the major government institutions, business outdoor Jacuzzis & gym with the latest Technogym equipment. In close proximity to Sofia Airport and centers and banks, as well as some cultural and the city centre. 100 free secure parking spaces historical places, the luxurious Arena di Serdica available to hotel guests and event delegates. Residence Hotel is an excellent choice for business and cultural trips. Grand Hotel Sofia

1, Gen. Yosif V. Gurko Str. h 3 map D3 fax: +359 2 811 0801 Public transport: Reservations: Tb-9; Tm-12,17 & +359 2 811 0800 e-mail: [email protected] 44 “William Gladstone” Str h 41 map c4 Located in the very city center, overlooking the Phone: +359 2 980 6000 Public transport City garden on the doorstep of the National Theatre Fax: + 359 2 981 1909 Metro, Tm-6 and the City Art Gallery. The hotel features 105 e-mail: [email protected] Tb-9 unique spacious rooms of over 50 sq.m. At Art Hotel is located in the center of Sofia, next guest’s disposal are also 17 comfortable oversized to the pedestrian zone of Vitosha Blvd. The hotel suites including 2 Grand suites and 3 Panorama is housed in a restored building from the 1930s, suites with balcony, providing the finest lodg- which impresses with the exquisite classical ing in Sofia. All rooms have air condition with architecture from the beginning of the last century individually controlled temperature, satellite and and the versatility of the artistic interior design. The location of the hotel provides quick and easy pay TV, inroom safe and electronic lock system, access to the administrative and commercial separate bathtub and shower cabin, bathroom center of Sofia, government institutions and telephone. Direct international dial telephones, banks. It is next to the National Palace of Culture, voicemail messaging and high speed Internet the National Theater, the churches, the museums access. Conference facilities seating from 10 to and the cultural and historical landmarks of old 150, gourmet restaurant, café, lobby bar, Private Sofia and ancient Serdika. The hotel has 22 rooms - single, double, luxury doubles with balconies, 3 , , health centre, indoor parking. Lounge Sofia club suites and 1 suite. Accommodation 19

Best Western Premier Sofia Airport

11, Bryuksel Blvd. h 13 (map back) 149, Tsarigradsko Shose Blvd. h 10 map back +359/ 2 905 13 13 Public Transport: &+359 2 817 81 00 Public transport: www.hotelpremiersofia.com B-84, Metro www.hotelexposofia.com Bus 1, 5, 6, Metro Part of the largest hotel chain in the world - Best [email protected] Western - with more than 4000 hotels worldwide. Boasting a convenient location at the new business Enjoy your stay in Sofia at the 4-star Best district of Sofia, just 0,5 km from Sofia International Western Plus Hotel Expo! Located in the heart Airport, the impressive brand new 4-star BEST of the Business District of Bulgaria’s capital city WESTERN PREMIER Sofia Airport hotel offers and within a walking distance to Sofia’s leading convenient access from two main highways and International Exhibition Center and direct Metro several dynamic Business centers, including Sofia connection to the Sofia International Airport, the Airport Center and European Trade Center Europe. hotel offers its guests 99 comfortable rooms, The modern BEST WESTERN PREMIER hotel provides multifunctional meeting rooms, a state-of- 155 spacious Premier King & Twin, Deluxe Queen and art business lounge, a modern bar as well as Business Suite rooms. The hotel offers easy access of shopping areas, dining and leisure options via other dining options, among which is a lush HOTEL Metro, public transport or taxi. Organize an event for open-air summer garden. Enjoy complimentary up to 400 people at BEST WESTERN PREMIER hotel morning shuttle service to Sofia International with the latest A/V technology and a 450 sq. meter Airport within 7 min drive and take a short flexible function space, including Heathrow grand ride to reach the city’s concert & sport venue, ballroom. Whether it’s for a meeting, training seminar several shopping malls and the main highways. or wedding, our dedicated team will ensure your event is a success.

Crystal Palace Hotel

6, Stara Planina Str. 14, Shipka Str. h 12 map F3 phone +359 2 915 15 00 & + 359 2 9489 489 Public transport: 6, Staracell +359Planina 885Str. 650 665 h 11 map E2 Fax: + 359 2 9489490 Metro, B - 306, 280 & ww 02 915w.s 15ofiacityhotel.co 00 m Public transport: cell: +359 886 399 504 Tb - 2, 5 fax: 02 986 20 00 Tm-20,22, e-mail: [email protected] [email protected]@sofiacit yhotel.com Metro www.crystalpalace-sofia.com www.sofiacityhotel.comEnjoy your stay! Single Rooms - 53, Junior Suites - 3, Suites - 10 First-class hotel right in the city centre, close to Room rates: EURO 110 - 250 the Sofia Opera House. 61 air-conditioned rooms and suites, Internet access, lobby bar, restaurant, Crystal Palace is one of the best 4-star hotels in 2 conference rooms, currency exchange Sofia because of its great architecture and city office, sauna, massage center, hair-dresser, center location. In close proximity to all important laundry, dry-cleaning and summer garden. venues in Sofia, the Crystal Palace Boutique Hotel. 20 Accommodation

and sporting purposes. Our friendly and smiling staff is available at all times to answer your questions and needs.

30,Iskar Str. , h 16 map E2 & +359 (0)2 452 1460, Public transport & +359 (0) 895 691 791 Tm-20,22 email: [email protected] Metro Hotel COOP, Sofia is a newly opened Business hotel, representing an exquisite building, in the 29, Knyaginya Maria Luiza Blvd. h 18 map C2 style of Old Sofia. The hotel is located in the & 02 980 55 77 Public transport: heart of the capital, just few steps away from fax: 02 980 33 55 Metro; Tm-20,22 many landmarks – architectural and cultural- e-mail: [email protected] historical sightseeing, administrative buildings and www.marialuisa-bg.com restaurants. The combination between location, The Maria Luisa hotel occupies an exquisite interesting architecture and quality service makes building dating back to the turn of the last it preferred place for business and family trips. century and considered one of the national Hotel COOP 4, Sofia provides accommodation cultural monuments. It is situated in the very in 72, stylish and comfortable bedrooms and heart of Sofia in close proximity to significant suites. All bedrooms would fulfil the expectations business and administrative centers, Ministries for modern hotel comfort, sophisticated style and elegant luxury even of the most discerning and Central shop markets. 15 rooms, 5 suites, guests. The guests are more than welcome to restaurant, lobby bar, business centre, parking. enjoy cup of refresh drink or appetizing meals in All rooms are beautifully appointed, with luxury Bistro and Lobby bar. The relax zone is good place in-suite bathrooms, cable TV, audio equipment, for sport, recreation and energizing in Fitness direct telephone connection, internet access. centre, Gym, Sauna, Massage, Tanning Room and Underground Parking with 2 Levels. For events there is multi-purpose Conference Hall, for up to 100 delegates, equipped with all the necessary technics for conferences and meetings.

64, Tsarigradsko shose Blvd. h 19 map back 79G, “Aleksandar Malinov” Blvd. h 23 map back & +359 2 42 47 900 Public transport: &+359 2 4349111; + 359 2 4349115 fax: +359 2 875 70 00 Metro, B76, 84, 213 [email protected] E: [email protected] www.gramihotelsofia.com www.metropolitanhotelsofia.com Hotel Grami is the newest business hotel in Sofia. The hotel has 54 rooms and 6 two-bedroom Rooms: Single - 31, Double - 141, Suites - 11, apartments. The top-floor sky-bar offers privacy Corner Studios - 16, Panorama apartments - 2 and views of Vitosha Mountain. Breakfast is Stylish urban hotel with unconventional design enjoyable and energizing with mooding. welcomes you at the eastern gate of the capital Strategically located in the most intensely city – 3 km away from Sofia Airport, 4 km developing quarter of Sofia, in close proximity from Business Park Sofia and within a walking to Sofia Business Park, Vitosha Mountain and distance from the International Expo Centre (IEC) the Gondola lift, Sofia Airport, the Southern Arc and The Mall shopping centre. Discreet and of the Ring Road, the elegant Hotel GRAMI is an thoughtful service, feel-at-home sensation and excellent choice for both business and leisure varied entertainment make your stay a memo- guests and for tourists arriving for leisure, cultural rable experience. Accommodation 21

incorporates the longstanding traditions and the contemporary concepts with attention to the smallest detail. With a capacity of 600 rooms the hotel welcomes both small groups and large-scale events offering a solution for every preference and budget. At the same time, the individual approach ensures quality of service that will be praised even by the most refined traveler.

115N Tsarigradsko Shosse Blvd. h 20 map back & /Fax +359 290 43 000 Public transport: www.novotel.com/8468 Metro; B-84, 204, 604 e-mail: [email protected] Novotel Sofia is ideally located in one of the most important business districts of Sofia and is only 10 min from the historical city center and the airport. This new 4-star hotel is adjacent to The Mall, one of Sofia’s biggest shopping and entertainment centers. Either you come for busi- 76B, James Bouchier Bvld. h 17 map D3 ness, for a meeting or with your family, you will & +359 2 806 55 55 Public transport: be fascinated by the modern atmosphere and cell: 0878 44 11 84 Metro functionality of its design. WIFI is free of charge fax: +359 2 806 55 00 in all hotel spaces. Take advantage of the NOVO e-mail: [email protected] 2 Lounge Bar & Restaurant or relax in Balance fit- www.hillhotel-sofia.com ness where massages are also available. Parking is free for all hotel guests. Single rooms - 14, Double rooms - 34 Room rates: EURO 100 -120 BB Hill Hotel is a modern 4-star business hotel located near the city center and just 100 meters away from the closest subway station. It is close to the city’s commercial and financial areas and has easy access to the airport and Central Railway station. Hill Hotels offers its guests a business center, large conference hall as well as fitness and SPA center. 131, Maria Louisa Blvd., h 22 map C0 1202 Sofia, Bulgaria Metro /Lavov Most/ cell: + 359 2 933 88 88 Tm-1,3,4,6,7,12,18 fax: + 359 2 933 87 77 Bus-213, 305, 413 E-mail: [email protected] www.ramadasofia.com Double rooms – 440, Single – 150, Suits – 10 Total rooms: 600 Where you travel for business or leisure, where you plan an event or just want to escape the daily routine for a reinvigorating city break, Ramada Sofia City Centre Hotel is the ideal place for you! Boyana District, 5, Sborishte Square The hotel offers a variety of services: room &/fax: 02 959 05 29 h 35 map back service, restaurant, bar, underground garage, www.villa-boyana.com Public transport: Wi-Fi, swimming pool, fitness centre, on-site e-mail: [email protected] B-107, 64 casino, credit card payment. All rooms are Located in the middle of Boyana village, a few air-conditioned and are equipped with minibar minutes from “National History Museum”, a few and satellite TV. Conveniently located within meters away from the world famous “Boyana walking distance to the heart of the city, just Church” and only ten minutes by car from the opposite the Central Railway and Bus Stations, downtown of Sofia. Comfortable well-appointed Ramada Sofia City Centre Hotel successfully bedrooms. Special welcomes by request. 22 Accommodation

Ibis Sofia Airport Hotel Meg-Lozenetz

132, Mimi Balkanska Str. h 46 map back & +35929444488 Public Transport: 84, Krum Popov Str. h 29 map C7 fax:+35929444488 Bus 84 & 02 965 19 70 Public transport: e-mail: [email protected] & 02 963 35 23 Tm-6,9; B-94 www.ibis.com Cell: 0889 464 300 Metro /Europian Union/ Restaurant Azaar Spanish Cuisine - 0888 020 020 The brand new Ibis Hotel is ideally located just e-mail: [email protected] 500 m from Sofia Airport Center and 2 to 5 min- www.meg-lozenetz.com utes driving to Megapark, European Trade Center, It is in the close proximity to the National Palace of Interexpo Center and Arena Armeets hall. It is Culture and to the shopping area of the “Vitosha” easily accessible by public transport - 1 minute boulevard, just 15 minutes by car from Sofia walking distance to a bus and 1,6 km to metro Airport. The hotel is near Metro Station “Europian station. With 84 standard Ibis rooms, a summer Union”. The hotel has 17 luxury furnished double garden restaurant and 4 meeting rooms, free WiFi, and triple rooms. Rooms offer internet connec- business corner and office by day services, Ibis tion, AC, mini bar, IDD phone, TV, own heating, Hotel is perfect for business trips and a smart room service. Restaurant, spanish cuisine with choice for weekend breaks. cosy garden, newly opened lobby bar with special menu, parking.

Gloria Palace Hotel

20, Maria Louisa Blvd. h 18 map C2 & 029807895 Public transport: Hotel Restaurant Montecito Metro; Tm-20,22 fax: 029807894 Phone: +359 2 973 6246 h 32 map back [email protected] Cell: +359 88 800 4820 Public Transport: B 5, 6, 7 www.gloriapalacehotel.bg [email protected] Single - 3, Double - 25, Suites - 2 www.hotelmontecito.bg Enjoy and relax in the cozy Gloria Palace Hotel Montecito is situated on the main Hotel, located in the main center of the ancient boulevard, leading to the city center, close capital of Bulgaria- Sofia City. Experience the to Sofia Airport, Sofia Business Center and remarkable transformation of a re-energized International Expo Center. The hotel features 101 downtown Sofia hotel that takes style and well-appointed guestrooms, main restaurant, service to breathtaking new heights. Gloria resembling a small palace, cozy summer Palace Hotel is in occupation of a building garden, outdoor swimming pool and large from the 19th of century with a unique style parking. Montecito Hall is the newest value in proclaimed as historical monument of the Sofia, luxury designed in style of The Palace of Bulgarian architecture which is perfectly Versailles, perfect for special events. Montecito combined with the latest innovations in kids is huge and attractive party center, offers technology. professional animation and services. Accommodation 23

location and easy access to all modes of transport. The hotel offers 120 rooms and 40 new suites with panoramic views, 2 restaurants, a summer and a winter garden, 7 conference halls up to 600 seats, parking and alot more.

Sofia Place Hotel and House

29, Hristo Belchev Str. h 34 map C4 & +359 2 4811400 Public transport: & +359 884 789 203 Tb-1, 2, 5, 8, 9 easyHotel Sofia - LOW COST [email protected] www.sofiaplacehotel.com 108, Aldomirovska Str. h 38 map back This design hotel is located in the center of /Todor Alexandrov Blvd./ Public transport: Sofia. Exclusive design interiors and free Wi-Fi & 02 920 16 54 Metro, Tm 3, 8,10 are offered at the Boutique hotel. The rooms at fax: 02 822 82 15 the hotel are bright and specious. A flat-screen TV e-mail: [email protected] with cable channels, mini-bar and air conditioning www.easyhotel-sofia.bg www.easyhotel.com are standard in each room. Serdica Station is a 5-minute walk away from the hotel. Guests can easyHotel Sofia is part of the British hotel chain walk to Alexander Nevsky Cathedral within 15 easyHotel.co, which is unique for offering modern minutes. The 24-hour reception offers customer facilities and impeccable service at unusually low support and positive attitude toward every guest. rates. Situated on the corner of Aldomirovska Street and the main Todor Alexandrov Boulevard, the brand new hotel is on just 5 minutes walk from the beating heart of central Sofia. All the 57 rooms are minimized in size however each is equipped with private bathroom, double bed, TV and Wi-Fi access, air-conditioning. The earlier you book, the less you pay. Check in – 2 pm; Check out – 11 am. Check best rates and book at www.easyhotel.com 4, Verila Str. h 37 map B5 & 02 952 08 30 Public transport: cell: 0879 846 376 Tm-6; Tb-1, 2, 5, 8, 9 e-mail: [email protected] Metro www.hotelthehouse.com Located in the very heart of Sofia next to the National Palace of Culture. All rooms are designed according KIBELLA Hotel to European standards - air-conditioning, separate bath-room, cable TV, Wi-Fi, refrigerator. Equipped with telephone, air-conditioning, cable TV, central heating, Geo Milev Distr. free internet access.rooms, wireless internet, cable 26, Alexander fon Humbolt Str. TV, air-conditioning. &/fax:+359 2 971 38 15 /16,17 & +359 2 9797560 & +359 888 588 575 [email protected] www.hotelkibella.com KIBELLA Hotel is near to the centre (3 km) and 5 km from the airport. Our guests may choose Park Hotel Moskva from different types of rooms and apartments: 12 singles rooms, 12 doubles rooms, 8 business – doubles rooms, 2 business – doubles lux 25, Nezabravka Str. h 46 map H8 rooms, Apartment, VIP apartment. There is a & +3592 971 10 24 Public transport: small conference room (12 - 15 seats) suitable e-mail: [email protected] Metro for presentations, meetings etc. Smiling staff will Park hotel Moskva is situated in the most beautiful respond to your every request and need cheerfully, and green part of Sofia - the Borisova garden. An ideal thus ensuring your pleasant and safe stay. 24 Accommodation

A small, boutique and charming place for retro Apartment Rentals accommodation, made with a lot of desire and love It is located in the very heart of Sofia in one of the XX century neoclassical buildings in a central, but peaceful area, just few steps away from the main pedestrian shopping street - Vitosha and on a walking distance from all the important city landmarks. You bl. 531, Anna Ahmatova Str., h 41 map back could choose one of our eight bright rooms: Mladost 1A Distr. Public transport: each one with a personal character and unique fax /& +359 2 974 41 60 Metro designer style, making you feel special. Being cell: +359 887 70 55 30 BUS: 213,88,76,305 in Sofia, no matter the reason; business or e-mail: [email protected] holiday, you can start to explore the city. www.block531.com Are you looking for a good accommodation during your stay in Sofia? The information for our lodging conditions shall be useful for you: BLOCK 531 – hotel accommodation double rooms and apartments, with guaranteed comfort and coziness and our new BLOCK 533 - appropriate for a long stay with independent studios and apartments, bouth situated Marrinella apartments in South-East part of Sofia, Mladost 1A, 5.5 km from the Sofia airport. 53, Patriarh Evtimii Blvd h43, Map B5 Cell: 00359898367112, & 00359 2 9516 555 [email protected] www.flatsinsofia.com Airport shuttle, Tv in every room, Children television networks, Ironing service, Laundry, Air Conditioning, Heating, Bottle of water and coca cola. Be My Guest Hostel Marrinella apartments combine comfort, privacy and coziness at a reasonable price. We offer fully 13, Ivan Vazov Str. H 41 map D4 furnished and equipped apartments and studios Tel: 02 989 50 92 Public transport: for short and longer term stay. The apartments are Cell: 0889 979 749 Tb - 9, 1, 2, 5, 8 located in the center of Sofia. We offer studios, one- e-mail: [email protected] Tm – 12, 18 bedroom and two bedroom apartments . In some of www.bemyguesthostel.com the flats there are spa bathroom. Private and shared rooms ensuite. Located nearby “Ivan Vazov” National Theater in the top Center. Easy access from the Airport by bus number 84, 184 and Metro. From the central bus and railway stations by Metro. If you are looking for simple, comfortable and clean accommodation, then this is the place for you.

Anyone can do it!

Every Saturday, at top places, in top cities: Free, organized running for everyone! The pleasure - to run for pleasure! 5kmrun.bg 5 VINTAGE GH 49, William Gladstone str. & +359 888961606; +359 888962606 +359 885866952 [email protected] cityinfoguides.com www.5vintage.bg CITYINFOGUIDES.com NDK - Prono, 1, Bulgaria Blvd., &+359 2 9 630 308; +359 885 630 308 Every day from 12.00 to 00.00, www.chevermeto-bg.com Accommodation 25

Every Saturday, at top places, in top cities: Free, organized running for everyone! The pleasure - to run for pleasure! 5kmrun.bg

NDK - Prono, 1, Bulgaria Blvd., &+359 2 9 630 308; +359 885 630 308 Every day from 12.00 to 00.00, www.chevermeto-bg.com 26 restaurants Please note: the price guide is an approximate dinner cost s - up to 25 lv per person; ss - up to 40 lv per person sss - over 40 lv per person Bar & Dining COOP CLUB 99, G.S.Rakovski. Str. & +359 (0)2 452 1461, & +359 (0) 898 656 890 Club of Architect ss email: [email protected] ss 11, Krakra Str. (map F4) Restaurant COOP CLUB has two air-conditioned Open: 12.00-24.00 halls furnished in traditional bulgarian style. The cell: +359 888 880 979 main restaurant has 120 seats and a formed dance Offers great variety of European cuisine: interest floor. The small hall has the capacity for 40 seats. salad, dishes, desserts & rich list of wine. The atmosphere creates retro bulgarian library. Summer & winter garden: 110 seats Barbecue can be served. The traditional bulgarian Credit cards: accepted cozy atmosphere of the Restaurant makes it an ideal place for meeting friends, weddings, prom balls, cocktails, catering, family and company celebrations.

The New Fox&Hound ss 21, Tsar Osvoboditel Blvd. (map F4) ss & 02 944 3915 34, Angel Kanchev Str., (map C5) Cell: +359 876 331 419 & 0878 625 054 & +359 980 74 27 www.grozd.bg Open: 10.00 - 24.00 Hours: 12:00 PM - 10:00 PM Grozd is the restaurant where you can find Stepping through the doors of the Fox & Hound traditional Bulgarian dishes based on original is like traveling back in time to foggy old Albion. home-made recipes, whilst also having a wide This lively and friendly British pub serves excel- lent food and an impressive selection of drinks. variety of classic international dishes. It is a place where you can get a true feeling of traditional and wines. And Bulgarian with 22 years of history you will certainly be in good hands.

NDK - Prono ss 1, Bulgaria Blvd. (map B6) Open every day: 12.00 - 00.00 Restaurant Vodenitzata & +359 2 9 630 308 cell: +359 885 630 308 Dragalevtsi District (map back) ss e-mail: [email protected] & 02 967 10 58, fax: 02 967 50 07 www.chevermeto-bg.com Open: 12.00-24.00 Restaurant Chevermeto combines authentic www.vodenitzata.com atmosphere, dishes prepared according to old One of the top ranked restaurants due to its magnifi- receipts and a folklore show. Every evening a whole lamb is roasted on fire as cent scenery. During the winter months 2 fireplaces “cheverme”, where the name of the restaurant illuminate the stone walls. The impression of the comes from. If you want to try all these take programme show can be multiplied by tasting your friends and bring them to Chevermeto, the traditional Bulgarian specialities and splash them way it is done by ministers, presidents, royalties with the excellent rakia and wine. Reservations and celebrities. by all means. restaurants 27

STARIA CHINAR (Old Sycamore) 71, Knyaz Al.Dondukov Blvd. (map F2) s Reservations: +359 887 45 50 50 www.stariachinar.com Restaurant LEBED 241, Samokovsko Shose Str. (map back) ss Staria Chinar (Old Sycamore) will rekindle the & 02 992 11 11 passion of the fans of game meats and delicious Open: 12.00-24.00 homemade dishes from the Balkans culinary, www.restaurantlebed.com prepared in original and spicy style. Welcome to the heart of Sofia, to the heart of Situated on the very shore of the Pancharevo culinary temptations, in cozy house built in 1922, lake. 2 halls and splendid garden, whose where good food for a good company is waiting Mediterranean style and natural beauty make the for you! atmosphere really romantic. Seafood delights, as well as a rich collection of selected beverage. Indian / Nepal ANNAPURNA Restaurant ss

40,Pozitano Str. (map B3) s & +359 894 31 21 31 Open: Everyday 11:00-24:00 (NEW) Hipodruma, 41,Tzar Boris III Blvd. (map BACK) & +359 884 21 04 10 181B, Georgi S. Rakovski Str., (map C5) maminkolio.com & 02 443 9100 Tavern in the city center, where you can enjoy Open: Everyday 11:00-22:30 traditional Bulgarian dishes to indulge in bit At the skirts of “Sofia Himalayas”, in the very heart atmosphere of the background of our folk music. of the town, however away from the everyday Here you will found comfort, excellent menu, first hustle, you will find a symbolic peak, taking you class service and live music. to the heights of the traditional Nepali and Indian cuisine – welcome top Annapurna restaurant. International

Gurkha Restaurant ss 81,Tzar Asen Str. (map B8) s Lozenets Distr. & +359 88 555 00 10 56, Tsvetna Gradina Str. (map B8) Open: Mon-Fri:10.00-24.00 & 02 865 02 16 Sat-Sun: 12.00-24.00 cell 0884 939 100 www.theclock.bg Open: Everyday 11:00-24:00 facebook.com/TheClockBarFood www.gurkhabg.com The Clock Bar& Food is that casual place in the DELIVERY HOLE SOFIA - till 22:00h heart of the city where everybody deserves do The famous Nepali warriors Gurkhas take part in dine. Their green garden offers cool escape peace keeping missions the world all over. What from the everyday noise .The restaurant offers makes their body and spirit fit and strong is the freshness, taste and atmosphere which to change aromatic and healthy Nepali food. Our mission is to every client of it with positive attitude and culinary take you over into the world of the unrivaled Nepali pleasure. and Indian food. 28 SHOPS

Zhenski Pazar Market 90B, Tsar Samuil Str. Phone:+ 359 2 983 21 84 [email protected] Every day - 7:00-19:00 www.zhenski-pazar.com fb/zhenskipazarofficial fb/ArtGallerySerdica Zhenski Pazar Market is attractive touristic destination - the largest and the oldest market in the central part in Sofia. The Pazar offers fresh vegetables, fruits and food, unique Bulgarian souvenirs, spices from Bulgaria and The Middle East. Many fast food restaurants, cozy cafes and the new culture area in the city – Art Gallery Serdica are also there to visit.

4, Vitosha Blvd., Sofia Mon.-Sun.: 10.30-20.30 Phone: +359 879 947022 www.balkansko-shops.bg Email: [email protected] www.facebook.com/balkansko Knyaz Aleksander I Sq. 1000 Sofia The shop is situated in the former royal palace in the heart of Sofia. Phone: +359884550610 Working hours: 09:00-18:00 With lots of devotion and love we collect the best of Bulgarian handicrafts! You will find here Bulgarian traditional souvenirs and cosmetics, silver filigree, music, paintings, icons, sweets and beverages. Welcome to Balkansko – Tradition & Spirit! SHOPS 29 30 NIGHT LIFE

bARS & cLUBS Casinos

Casino Sofia 4, Narodno Sabranie Square (map E4) Club Stroeja Intercontinental hotel 10, Lege Str. (map C3) cell: +359 888 77 66 55 Reservations: +359 885 974666 facebook.com/stroeja Open: Monday - Sunday 16:00 - 3:00

Princess Sofia 131, Kn. Maria Luiza Blvd. (map C0) Sofia Ramada Hotel & +359 2 933 88 88 Club Terminal 1 Viva Casino 1, Angel Kanchev Str. (map C4) Sofia Hotel Balkan (map C3) Reservations: +359 889 219001 & 02 981 57 47, 02 986 35 01, facebook.com/clubterminal1 cell: +359 893 729 190 Open: Thursday - Saturday 21:00 - 6:00 www.groupviva.com Erotic barS

STIX Bar & Billiards National Palace of Culture, main underpass, 1 “Bulgaria” Sq. 4, Vitosha Blvd. (map C3) & +088 288 2082 & +359 2 981 36 63, +359 2 981 07 70 www.stix.bg www.FetishSofia.com Open every day: 9 PM - 4 AM Friday and Saturday 9 PM - 5 PM The only and unique FETISH club in Sofia. Every night you can enjoy the company of 20 highly attractive and hottest girls in most pleasant STUDIO 5 atmosphere. National Palace of Culture Do not hesitate and call us - we promise to bring & 088 793 4335 Sofia, Sq. Bulgaria 1, Ndk, Vhod A3 all your fantasies to life! open 6-10.30 PM NIGHT LIFE 31 32 CULTURE

PROGRAMME National academy for theatre and film arts Krastyo Sarafov

108 A, G. S. Rakovski Str. & 02 9231 303 SCENE 47 – 19:30 www.natfiz.bg 6th, 21st - PLATONOV 8th, 22nd, 29th - chaos 12th, 27th - PAPAS IN MOTION GRAND HALL – 19:00 13th - Romeo and Juliet 1st, 18th - Lady Macbeth from Mtsensko 14th, 28th - purple blue 7th, 19th - Thessaloniki co-slaughterers 20th, 25th - impure 11th, 20th - EROFEEV 13th, 27th - Bulgarian mystery Puppet THEATRE 14th - don juan tenorio 7th, 20th, 19:00 - circle 15th, 25th - the boatman 9th, 22nd, 11:00 - Gabarko / mushroom/ 17th - The God 15th, 16th, 11:00 - the princess 26th - three sisters and the torn shoes 29th - flurry premiere 23rd, 29th, 11:00 - the tiger Spas

Thessaloniki co-slaughterers

don juan tenorio CULTURE 33

23A Yanko Sakazov Blvd. phone.: +359 2 944 24 85 / +359 878 92 75 21 www.sofiatheatre.eu 4th, 21st - OLD SAYBROOK & LAST OF THE “Sofia” Theatre has the pleasure to invite you to be part of one unforgettable experience with RED HOT LOVERS ► performances also with subtitles in English. All 5th - ANNA KARENINA ► performances with subs will be designated with 6th - THE MINISTER’S WIFE this symbol: 7th, 26th - the dinner ► 8th - hangmen ► 2nd, 29th, 11:00 - ronia the robber 11th - emigrant paradise 8th, 11:00 - mary poppins 12th, 29th - The libertine ► 9th, 22nd, 11:00 - Pippi 13th - marriage ► 14th - Consent ► 15th, 28th - TIRAMISU ► 17th - Guest theatre Shumen 18th - The Government Inspector 19th - THE NIGHT OF JANUARY 16TH 20th - THE MINISTER’S WIFE 25th - Four ears and humiliation premiere 27th - jump! CHAMBER HALL 2nd, 16th - dinner invitation FOR CHILDREN - THE PLAYS BEGIN AT 11:00; 17:00 GRAND HALL 1st, 23rd, 11:00 - PETER PAN ►

Theatre Bulgarian Army 18th - schweik 20th - the iron cresset 98, Rakovski Str. 23rd - THE LEGACY OF & 02 987 23 03 A CHASTE WOMANIZER www.tba.art.bg 27th - sex, drugs and rock’n’roll facebook.com/armytheatre Scene MIRACLE – 19:30 1st, 28th - taste of honey 1st, 21st - scissors killer 4th, 15th - one night with you 3rd - much ado about nothing 5th, 21st - the pull 4th - albena 7th, 14th, 29th - love, love, love 5th, 25th - marquis de sad 8th, 16th, 20th - coffee claims 6th - AT THE FOOTHILLS OF VITOSHA 25th - after the rehearsal 7th - comedy in the dark 8th, 28th - arsenic and old lace Club Scene – 19:30 13th - the Decameron 3rd - UNCURTAIN 14th, 22nd - no matter woman 5th, 14th, 26th - Enigma 15th - THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST 15th - Detective 34 CULTURE

THEATRE VAZRAJDANE 4, P.R. Slaveykov Sq. & 02/987 24 31 www.theatrevazrajdane.bg 1st - Sinbad and the treasure of seven kingdoms (11:00;12:30h) 16th - The Light Princess (11:00;12:30h) 1st - Allo, allo! (19:00h) 16th - From a phenomenon 2nd - The three little pigs (11:00 h ; 12:30h) of electricity (19:00h) 2nd - The last secret of 18th - Allo, allo! (19:00h) Freddie Mercury (19:00 h) 21st - House of Anger (19:00h) 4th - House of Anger (19:00h) 22nd - The three little pigs (11:00 h ; 12:30h) 7th - 12 Angry (19:00h) 22nd - The last secret of

8th - Grandma’s cake (11:00 ; 12:30h) Freddie Me rcury (19:00 h) 8th - Because mum likes it (19:00h) 23rd - Snow white and seven 9th - The Dwarf Nose (11:00 ; 12:30h) dwarfs (11:00 h ; 12:30h) 11th - Easter’s wine (19:00h) 25th - From a phenomenon of 14th - A Quartet for two (19:00h) electricity (19:00h) 15th - Yan Bibyan and the Devil 28th - Labyrinth - PREMIERE (19:00h) Fyut (11:00h; 12:30h) 29th - Red riding hood (11:00 h ; 12:30h) 15th - Closer (19:00 h) 29th - Labyrinth - PREMIERE (19:00h)

Because mum likes it

The last secret of Freddie Mercury CULTURE 35

National Music & Ballet Center - Sofia

100, Vasil Levski Blvd. & 02 943 19 79 www.musictheatre.bg www.arabesque.bg

1st, 9th, 23rd, 11:00 - To kiss a princess 18th, 19:00 - Guest theater Nish 1st, 6th, 7th, 8th, 19:00 - fiddler on the roof 21st, 19:00 - Charley’s Aunt 2nd, 15th, 22nd, 11:00 - sharl the cat 22nd, 19:00 - The Merry Widow 2nd, 9th, 17:00 - fiddler on the roof 23rd, 17:00 - The Snow Queen - Arabesque 8th, 11:00 - Yan bibiyan 27th, 19.00 - The Gypsy Baron 12th, 19:00 - Romeo and Juliet - Arabesque 28th, 19:00 - concert 13th, 14th, 15th, 16th, 19:00 - the bat 29th, 19:00 - the csardas princess

36 CULTURE

Sofia Opera and Ballet

1, Vrabcha Str. & 02 987 13 66 www.operasofia.bg

02 Sun 16:00 - CARMEN SUITE 21 Fri 19:00 - TURANDOT Ballet by Bizet – Shchedrin Opera by Giacomo Puccini PAQUITA Special guest MARIA GULEGHINA (Russsia) Ballet by Ludwig Minkus Conductor KERI-LYNN WILSON (Canada)

04 Tue 19:00 - RIGOLETTO 23 Sun 19:00 - ZORBA THE GREEK Opera by Giuseppe Verdi Ballet by Mikis Theodorakis Special guest VLADIMIR STOYANOV as Rigoletto 26 Wed 19:00 - RIGOLETTO PREMIERE Opera by Giuseppe Verdi 14 Fri 19:00; 15 Sat 11:00, 19:00; Special guests: 16 Sun 11:00, 19:00; 18 Tue IONUŢ PASCU (Romania) as Rigoletto 19:00 - SHREK – The Musical PAOLO LARDIZZONE (Italy) as The Duke By DAVID LINDSAY-ABAIRE Conductor LUCIANO DI MARTINO (Italy) and JEANINE TESORI Conductor IGOR BOGDANOV 29 Sat 19:00 - LA TRAVIATA Director WEST HYLER Opera by Giuseppe Verdi Conductor DAVID GIMÉNEZ (Spain) 20 Thu 19:00 - LE CORSAIRE 22 Sat 19:00 Ballet by Adolphe Adam 29 Sat 17:00 Friends of the Opera Club John Abenanty’s debut in the role of Conrad Chamber Hall

KERI-LYNN WILSON MARIA GULEGHINA CULTURE 37

NOVA ART SPACE 3 Saborna Str., Phone: +359 888 426610 [email protected] www.novaart.bg February 12th - March 7th, we will present an international project involving three of the most current French painters from Paris and one of the most beloved Italian sculptors, born in Naples. 38 CULTURE

Culture Centers - Programme

Polish Institute in Sofia 12, Veslets Str. & +359 2 981 09 07 Fax +359 2 981 57 44 [email protected] Twitter: @PLISofia Web: www.institutpolski.org FB: facebook.com/polski.institut.sofia Instagram: polskiinstitutsofia

Exhibition THE COLORS OF THE FOG 3 February – 31 March 2020 The exhibition of Maciej Szymański, the Ambassador of the Republic of Poland to the Republic of Bulgaria, is themed around the colour of the fog. We all know it (and tend to detest it). One might even wonder how these tiny drops of water or miniscule ice crystals dispersed in the air and blurring the vision might even be of interest to photography, which is all about visibility itself. This exhibition though demonstrates that the fog can be full of colour, a picturesque veil that can envelope and charm one, and lure into a motley, fairy-tale, fancy world of its own. CULTURE 39

Classica Gallery 32, Yuriy Venelin Str. (map E5) & +359 894 70 20 90 [email protected] Working time in December: 11.00 to 19.00. Sat: 14.00 to 20.00. Sun: by appointment +359 894 70 20 90

Exhibition for February, 2020 3rd to 23rd - “WORLDWIDE IN ME”, an exhibition- painting by Maria Alexandrova.

Lampion Gallery 2, Krakra Street, Sofia’s House of Culture & +359895 718388 [email protected] Lampion Gallery is a small, magical place in the center of Sofia. There Nikolay Tabakov held workshops for unique Bulgarian lamps from metal and paper – for people of all ages.

The CLUB OF THE BULGARIAN PHOTO REPORTERS AND PHOTOGRAPHERS is located in the underpass next to the Council of Ministers. This is the most unique venue in Sofia, situated at the Eastern Gate of the ancient town of Serdika. The Club has at its disposal a gallery that is placed over layers of history, culture and civilizations going back to the times of the Ancient Roman Empire. The Club organizes exhibitions of original photography which is also available for sale. Open: Everyday 9:00 a.m / Phone: 0889 63 68 31 40 CULTURE

PALETTE

Stubel Gallery 2 V, Kosta Lultchev St. & +359 887 30 77 40 [email protected] stubelgallery.com facebook.com/stubelgallery/ Open: Thu - Sat: 14:30 - 18.30h On the 3rd of February 2020, Stubel Gallery will host the opening of an exhibition by Rumen Gasharov – one of the most long-lived and original Bulgarian artists, defined by some as “the founder of Bulgarian pop-art”. Named RETRO- SPECTIONS, the exposition presents works created between 1967 and 2018. The exhibition will continue until February 21st.

Evdokia Art Glass 120, G.S.Rakovski Blvd. Phone: +359 887 959 872; +359 899 940 572 Facebook: evdokiaartglass Evdokia Art Glass - space united painting and art of glass and porcelain. Joint exhibition “Erotic” - painting and sculpture from 18th February to 14th March 2020. CULTURE 41

Sofia City Art Gallery 1, Gen. Gurko str., Sofia (entrance from the side of Kniaz Al. Batenberg str.) Gallery hours: T: 02/ 9872181, Monday: closed 981 26 06; Tues.-Sat: 10.00 – 19.00 www.sghg.bg Sun: 11.00- 18.00 42 Bulgaria in Brief

WELCOME TO BULGARIA Religion: Orthodox Average summer temperatures: 26° to 30°C Welcome to one of the oldest European states Average winter temperatures: -5° to 5°C with 6000-years old gold treasures, a center Time zone: GMT +2 of ancient civilizations, a country that hosts the Country dialing code: 00 359 sanctuary of the mystical singer Orpheus and Internet country code: .bg gave to the Slavonic people the Cyrillic alphabet. Capital: Sofia Bulgaria is the only one country in Europe Currency: (BGN) that hasn’t changed its name since it was first established. The Bulgarian army has never lost a single flag in battle. The is a HISTORY tricolor consisting of three equal-sized horizontal The Bulgarian state was founded circa 681 as bands of (from top to the bottom) white, green a union of the new-united Proto-Bulgarians, of and red. It was first adopted after Russo-Turkish seven Slavonic tribes who have already settled War (1877-1878), where Bulgaria regained inde- in this territory and with the inclusion of some pendence. The current flag was re-established smaller ethnical groups (Thracians and others). with the 1991 . The state was ruled by its founder Khan Asparuh, the leader of the Proto-Bulgarians and the first Bulgarian capital was . The Thracians were a tribal society who inhabited a vast area in Central and Southeastern Europe. They were well-known in the Ancient world with the making filigree gold and silver jewelry. The great Homer described in his in masterpiece Iliad a Thracian king, having “the biggest and the most handsome horses I have ever seen,”/ whiter than snow and swifter than the winds / and a chariot of Bulgaria finely wrought from silver and gold. Important & significant events 681 – The Bulgarian state acquired political recognition from the .

718 – The Bulgarian Khan Tervel has stopped the Arabic invasion to European continent. 855 – The Cyrillic alphabet by the brothers Cyril and Methodius. It corresponded perfectly to the phonetic riches and needs of the Slavonic- Bulgarian language. As of today more than 250 million people in Europe and Asia use the Cyrillic alphabet for their national languages. Details - Republic of Bulgaria 864 – During his rule Knyaz Boris I converted the Adopted - 1997 state to Orthodox Christianity. Crest - Crown of theSecond Bulgarian Empire - Gules, a lion rampant crowned 893-927 – During the Golden Age of Tzar Simeon - Two lions rampant crowned the Great, the First Bulgarian State stretched - Two crossed oak branches gradually from Transylvania in the north, to the with fruits Aegean sea in the south, from the Black sea in Motto - Съединението прави силата the east and to the Adriatic sea in the west. At this time Bulgaria gradually reached its cultural “Saedinenieto pravi silata” and territorial apogee, and it turned into the cul- “” tural and literary center of Slavic Europe, as well FACTS & FIGURES as becoming one of the largest states in Europe. Population: 7 364 570 1018 – The Bulgarian army fell to Byzantines and Area: 110 993 sq. km after that the Bulgaria State had been conquered Language: Bulgarian Bulgaria in Brief 43 by the Emperor Vassileios II. Borders through the centuries 1185 – The Second Bulgarian State was estab- Bulgaria has expanded twice its borders to the lished at , reinstated the borders shores of Black, Aegean and Adriatic seas. of the First Bulgarian Kingdom and a sec- Bulgarian Empire is a term used to describe ond Golden Age began during which Bulgaria two periods in the medieval , expanded its borders to the shores of Black, during which it acted as a key regional power in Aegean and Adriatic seas. Europe in particular, often rivaling Byzantium. Here is the picture of Bulgarian borders in our 1396-1878 – The country was under the rule of days. the .

1878 – Liberation from the rule of the Ottoman Empire. Establishment of the Third Bulgarian State.

1878-1879 – As the result of the Treaty of Berlin, the Bulgarian State was divided in two territories. An autonomous was cre- ated, between the Danube and the Stara Planina range, with its seat at the old Bulgarian capital of Veliko Tarnovo, and including Sofia. An autono- For more info, look for Varna, mous Ottoman province under the name of Burgas and City Info Guides Eastern Rumelia was created south of the Stara WWW.CITYINFOGUIDES.COM Planina range, whereas Macedonia was returned under the sovereignty of the Sultan. CITY INFO 06.09.1885 – The establishment of the GUIDES Independence of Bulgaria. On that date Eastern .com Rumelia rejects the rule of Sultan and announced that joined the Principality of Bulgaria. Two days later, the Prince Alexander Battenberg First Unesco Heritage signed a manifesto to approve the accession of the field and taken to be titled as a future prince The UNESCO List of World Heritage now fea- of Northern and Southern Bulgaria. tures over 300 landmarks in our country. Nine Bulgarian wonders - seven cultural and two 1944 – The After Communist Party, led by natural sites – are included among them: Georgi Dimitrov, took the power as a result of Monastery, Nessebar, The Kazanluk Tomb, The almost bloodless coup d’état and proclaimed Sveshtari Tomb, The Madara Horseman, The Bulgaria for a “People’s Republic” in 1946 after , The Ivanovo Rock Monasteries, a controversial referendum. National Park, Sreburna Lake. National Holidays 10.11.1989 – The Communist regime ended when Bulgaria peacefully ousted the Communist 1 January – New Year’s Day Party leader . 3 March – National Holiday /The liberation of the Bulgarian land from the Ottoman Empire is 1989 – The establishment of a multi-party celebrated on this day/ system and the begging of the Bulgaria’s democ- 1 May – Labour and International Worker’s ratization. Solidarity Day 6 May – St. George’s Day (Gergyovden) and the 12.07.1991 – The new Constitution of the Bulgarian Army’s Day Republic of Bulgaria was adopted and it pro- 24 May – Bulgarian Education, Culture and claimed the country as a parliamentary republic. Cyrillic Alphabet Day 6 September – Unification Day 29.03.2004 – Bulgaria joined NATO. 22 September – Independence Day 1 November – Day of the Bulgarian Enlighteners 01.01.2007 – The country became a member of (Holiday for all educational institutions) the European Union. 24 December - Christmas Eve 25, 26 December – Christmas Days 44 Bulgaria in Brief

Alphabet Аа a (as in cat) Пп p (as in pot) Бб b (as in bus) Рр r (as in red) Вв v (as in very) Сс s (as in sit) Гг g (as in good) Тт t (as in tree) Дд d (as in dog) Уу u (as in yule) Ее e (as in egg) Фф f (as in foot) Жж zh (like’s‘ in leisure) Хх h (like ’ch‘ in Bach) Зз z (as in zoo) Цц ts (as in puts) Ии i (as in instant) Чч ch (as in check) Йй y (as in young) Шш sh (as in shut) Кк k (as in kick) Щщ sht (like ’shed‘ in pushed) Лл l (as in love) Ъъ a (like ’u‘ in but) Мм m (as in marry) Ьь (consonant soften ing sign) Нн n (as in no) Юю yu (like you) Оо o (as in hot) Яя ya (as in yank)

Months January januari April april July yuli October oktomvri February fevruari May may August avgust November noemvri March mart June yuni September septemvri December dekemvri

Week Days

Monday ponedelnik Wednesday sryada Friday petak Tuesday vtornik Thursday chetvartak Saturday sabota Sunday nedelya

Numbers

1 edno 12 dvanadeset 53 petdeset i tri 2 dve 13 trinadeset 64 shestdeset i chetiri 3 tri 14 chetirinadeset 75 sedemdeset i pet 4 chetiri 15 petnadeset 86 osemdeset i shest 5 pet 16 shestnadeset 97 devetdeset i sedem 6 shest 17 sedemnadeset 100 sto 7 sedem 18 osemnadeset 1,000 hilyada 8 osem 19 devetnadeset 10,000 deset hilyadi 9 devet 20 dvadeset 100,000 sto hilyadi 10 deset 31 trideset i edno 1,000,000 edin milion 11 edinadeset 42 chetirideset i dve Bulgaria in Brief 45

BULGARIAN SPOKEN ENGLISH Поздрави Pozdravi Greetings

Добро утро [Do’bro ‘utro] Good morning Добър ден [‘Dobar ‘den] Good day Добър вечер [‘Dobar ‘vecher] Good evening Здравейте [Zdra’veite] Hallo Как сте? [‘Kak ste?] How are you? Добре [Do’bre] Good Аз съм добре [‘Az sam do’bre] I’m all right Благодаря [Blagoda’rya] Thank you Извинявайте [Izvi’nyavaite] Excuse me Как се казвате? [‘Kak se ‘kazvate?] What’s your name? Къде се намира...? [Ka’de se na’mira] Where is ...?

Местоположение Mestopolozhenie Getting Around

... улица/булевард [‘ulitsa/bule’vard ...] ...Street/Boulevard ... площад/паметник [plosh’tad/’pametnik] ... Square/Monument ... пощата/летището [‘poshtata/le’tishteto] ... the post/the airport ... ресторант [resto’rant ...] ... restaurant ...... пазара/аптеката [pa’zara/ap’tekata] ... the market/pharmacy ... хотел [ho’tel ...] ... hotel ...... гарата/автогарата [‘garata/’avto’garata] ... the station/the bus station магазин [maga’zin] shop спирка [‘spirka] bus/tram stop първата/втората [‘parvata/’vtorata the first/second пресечка pre’sechka] intersection...... наляво [na’lyavo] ... on the left ... надясно [na’dyasno] ... on the right ... направо [na’pravo] ... straight ahead

Пазаруване Pazaruvane Shopping Колко струва това? [‘Kolko ‘struva to’va?] How much does this cost? Къде мога да купя?... [Ka’de ‘moga da ‘kupya?] Where can I buy?... дрехи [‘drehi] clothes обувки [o’buvki] shoes храна [hra’na] food цигари [tsi’gari] cigarettes подаръци [po’daratsi] presents евтино [‘evtino] cheap скъпо [‘skapo] expensive

Храна и напитки Hrana i napitki Eating & Drinking Имате ли меню на [‘Imate li me’nyu na Do you have a menu in английски? ang’liiski?] English? предястия [pre’dyastiya] starters основни ястия [os’novni ‘yastiya] main courses десерт [de’sert] dessert вегетариански [vegeta’rianski] vegetarian пиле [‘pile] chicken риба [‘riba] fish свинско [‘svinsko] pork телешко [‘teleshko] veal / beef картофи [kar’tofi] potatoes ориз [o’riz] rice kафе [ka’fe] coffee чай [‘chai] tea горещо [go’reshto] hot (temp) бира [‘bira] bier бяло вино [‘byalo ‘vino] white wine червено вино [cher’veno ‘vino] red wine вода [vo’da] water Сметката, ако обичате. [‘Smetkata, a’ko o’bichate.] Can we have the bill, please? 46 Useful Numbers

Airline Companies Car Rentals For flight information: www.sofia-airport.bg Located 10 km (6 miles) east of the city centre, the busy two-terminal airport is linked to the most of the world capitals. The bright, modern 53, Nikola Vaptsarov (map back) and smoke-free Sofia Airport has the capacity & 02 439 02 22/ 23 to serve 2.5 million passengers. The new fax: 02 439 12 25 “Terminal 2” building is designed with special e-mail: [email protected] attention to disabled passengers. A large parking Sofia Airport: & 029 459 217 lot is located in front of the old terminal building. A new multi-level parking garage providing CENTRAL BUS STATION 820 parking spaces is linked to the departures 100, Knyaginya Maria Luiza Blvd. (map C0) area of the new passenger terminal. The car & 0900 21 000 parks are open non-stop and parking fee is 2 www.centralnaavtogara.bg to 3 leva per hour. Avoid taking airport taxis other than “O.K. Supertrans”, which provides services to the city centre for BGN 10/ Euro 5. Diplomatic Missions The regular N84 bus line covers the route Sofia Austria Airport–Sofia University. You can also get on 4, Shipka Str. - & 02 932 90 32 the subway. Sofia Metro Line 1 connects Sofia www.bmeia.gv.at/botschaft/sofia Airport to many central locations and provides Canadian Honorary Consulate many other connections through the city. If you 7, Pozitano Str. - & 02 969 97 10 switch trains from Line 1 to Line 2 at Serdika e-mail: [email protected] Metro Station, you can travel to the Sofia Central France Bus Station and Sofia Central Railway Station. 29, Oborishte Str. - & 02 965 1100 The metro system is working from 05.30 am [email protected] until the midnight hours on working days and [email protected] weekends/holidays. The metro station at Sofia Airport is located in the eastern part of Terminal Germany 2, for easy access follow the blue marking lines 25, Fr. Joliot-Curie Str. - & 02 918 38 00 on the floor at the public area at the Terminal 2. www.sofia.diplo.de If your flight arrives at Terminal 1 you can take Italy the free-of-charge shuffle bus between the two 2, Shipka Str. - & 359 2 921 73 00 terminal buildings. [email protected] Japan 14, Lyuliakova gradina Str. - &+359 971-2708 [email protected] Mon.-Fri.08:30 -12:30 ;13:30- 17:15

& 02 402 04 00 Netherlands e-mail: [email protected] 15, Oborishte Str. - & 02 816 03 00 For sales and reservations: www.netherlandsembassy.bg & 02 402 04 05, 02 402 04 06 Russia e-mail: [email protected] 33, Dragan Tsankov Blvd. &+359 2 963 09 14 Internet reservation: 02 402 04 61 [email protected] e-mail: [email protected] www.russia.bg www.air.bg Emergency: +3592 963 44 58 Spain Info Center 27, Sheinovo Str. & +359 2 943 35 40 [email protected] Switzerland 33, Chipka Str. &+359 2 942 01 00 [email protected] Underpass of St. Kliment Ohridski University of www.eda.admin.ch/sofia Sofia and Metrostation St. Kliment Ohridski United States of America Open: Mon - Fri 9.30 - 18.00 (winter) 16, Kozyak Str. - & 02 937 51 00 & 02 491 83 44/ 45 www.usembassy.bg Useful Numbers 47

Medical Services Cleaning companies I Care Contacts: Sofia, Plovdiv [email protected] & +359 884 64 44 44 & +359 2 441 44 44 TOKUDA HOSPITAL icare.bg 24 Hours Emergency Response You are flexible to choose the time period, In-patient and out-patient Services within which you would like to be visited by our 36 Clinics and Departments housemaid. Every visit of your package could Logistical support be different day and time in every week. Our 51B “Nikola I. Vaptsarov” Blvd. well trained assistants work by unified way entrance from “At. Dukov” Str. of work, following our company policy. Our Call center: 02/ 403 4000 Quality Control Manager are responsible for Emergency: 02/ 403 4112 housemaid’s good performance. You can order [email protected] fast and easily Online via computer or mobile phone. For any further questions, do not hesitate CARDIOVASCULAR CENTER to contact us by phone or Email. INFORMATION AND APPOINTMENT & 0700 13 127 Vasilka [email protected] str. “Kamen Andreev” № 24 127 Okolovrasten pat Street & 02 / 952 34 34 & 0888 / 771 341 CANCER CENTER vasilka-bg.com INFORMATION AND APPOINTMENT & 0700 13 127 “Vasilka – Agency of cleanliness” is established in [email protected] 1995, as a natural continuation of the experience of 66A, Tsarigradsko shose Blvd. its leaders in the person of the manager Vladimir Vladimirov, who have been working in the field of cleaning services since 1989. Postal Services Central post station 6, Gen. Y.V. Gurko Str. (7.00h - 20.30h) Main postal rates: small letters - 0.60lv. (For BG) MHATEM “N.I.Pirogov” Package (parcels) 0-1kg - 2.15lv. (For BG), Emergency : 02/ 915 44 11 23.70 - 46.90lv.(for EU) to 5kg - 3lv.(For 1606 Sofia, 21, Totleben Blvd BG), 43.20-179.90lv.(For EU). diagnostics, therapy, education and training, scientific research, methodology, emergency Railway help. The Embassy the country you came from may be able to refer you to a doctor who speaks your Central Railway Station language. The Accident and Emergency Hospital for Knyaginya Maria Luiza Blvd. (map C0) Sofia is the Pirogov hospital at 21, Gen. Totleben Blvd. & 02 931 11 11, 02 932 33 33 www.bdz.bg Taxi All legal and registered taxi cabs must be “SHEYNOVO - 75 years of traditions, high yellow and operated by meter. Rates per km professionalism and most contemporary and are between 0.79 – 0.96 leva. Any starting sophisticated medical technologies” and call-out charges must be displayed on 19, Sheynovo str. the back side windows according to the law. tel. +3592 965 94 81 +3592 965 94 82 e-mail:[email protected] EMERGENCY NUMBER - 112 Цени на превозни документи Prices of transport documents