ISSN 1311-9753 I FREE MONTHLY GUIDE + MAP I JUNE 2016 I ISSUE 276

Bulgaria in Brief 1 2 in Brief

23 YEARS CITY INFO GUIDE

4 Bulgaria in Brief 16 Overview 28 Accommodation 36 Bars AND Restaurants 42 NIGHT LIFE Dear Readers, Greetings and warm welcome to City® Info Guide. 46 culture At the begging of the summer season I am happy to share with you the fact that “DIFFERENT BULGARIA” could be seen at Airport Varna until 58 useful Numbers June 25th. The photography exhibition is a gift from us to all guests of Varna on the occasion of our 23rd anniversary. Sofia City ® Info Guide On the same topic this a great excuse to plan a trip to Black sea coast. As usual we are here Publisher: to help you with some great suggestions for Nova Advertising Ltd. your stay. /Нова Адвъртайзинг ЕООД/ The summer in Bulgaria is perfect. On June 24th Manager: Lyudmila Mladenova is the traditional celebration of Eniovden, one Editor: Lyubina Panayotova unique and mystical holiday. Be sure to read the Design: Nova Advertising Ltd. story about the meaning behind it on the next Cover: Vodenitzata Restaurant pages. On the same date Zenith Fusion Festival will take place in the village of Dolen and we are Print: Janet 45 Ltd. media partners of the event. For Advertising, Thank you for your curiosity about our country Bulk Orders and Subscriptions: (before 10th of the preceding month, please!) and we are hoping that you will plan another trip to Bulgaria any time soon. Phone: 02 980 85 01 Cell: 0896 717 225 Do not hesitate to contact us if you have any E-mail: [email protected] tips, photos and stories you want to share [email protected] with us. facebook.com/cityinfoguides.bulgaria See you soon, All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be Lyubina Panayotova reproduced in any form or by any means without prior Editor permission. Monthly circulation: 20 000

www.cityinfoguides.com Bulgaria in Brief 3 4 Bulgaria in Brief

Welcome to bulgaria Welcome to one of the oldest European states with 6000-years old gold treasures, a centre of ancient civilizations, a country that hosts the sanctuary of the mystical singer Orpheus and gave to the Slavonic people the Cyrillic alphabet. Bulgaria is a small country by area and population, but it was this spectacular piece of land that God Almighty blessed with unearthly beautiful nature, proud people and rich cultural heritage. Bulgarians are also quite hospitable nation – they St. Cyril, and corresponded perfectly to the phonetic will greet you like dear guests, they will open their hearts and homes for you and they will see you riches and needs of the Slavonic-Bulgarian language. off with sincere wishes to come back soon again. As of today more than 250 million people in Europe and Asia use the Cyrillic alphabet for their national FACTS & FIGURES languages and half of them are from Russia. With the Population: 7 364 570 accession of Bulgaria to the EU, the Cyrillic alphabet Area: 110 993 sq. km became the third official one of the union. Language: Bulgarian Another major historical landmark took place in this Religion: Orthodox period when Knyaz Boris I converted the state to Average summer temperatures: 26° to 30°C Orthodox Christianity in 864. Average winter temperatures: -5° to 5°C The First Bulgarian State stretched gradually from Time zone: GMT +2 (Apr-Sept GMT +3) Transylvania in the north, to the Aegean Sea in the Country dialing code: 00 359 south, from the Black Sea in the east and to the Adriatic Internet country code: .bg Sea in the west. It fell to the Byzantines in 1018 after Administrative division: 28 regions 263municipalities it had been conquered by the Emperor Vassileios II. Capital: Sofia (population 1 291 591) The Second Bulgarian State, established in 1185 at Major Cities: Plovdiv (671 918), Varna (468 220), Veliko Tarnovo, reinstated the borders of the First Bourgas (409 018) Bulgarian Kingdom and a second Golden Age began Bulgarian Lev is pegged to the EURO (EURO 1 ≈ during which Bulgaria expanded its borders to the BGN 1, 95). shores of Black, Aegean and Adriatic seas. History From 1396 to 1878 the country was under the rule (the The Bulgarian state was founded circa 681 as so called ‘yoke’) of the Ottoman Empire. a union of the new-settled Proto-Bulgarians, of Sofia became the capital of Bulgaria after the Veliko seven Slavonic tribes who have already settled this Tarnovo Constitution was accepted in 1879. From territory and with the inclusion of some smaller 1878 (liberation from the rule of the Ottoman Empire) ethnical groups (Thracians and others). to 1944, Bulgaria enjoyed a brief but unstable period The Thracians were a tribal society who inhabited a of relative freedom. After 1944 the Communist Party, vast area in Central and Southeastern Europe. They led by its leader Georgi Dimitrov, took the power as a were well-known in the Ancient world for making result of almost bloodless coup d’état and proclaimed filigree gold and silver jewelry. The great Homer Bulgaria for a “People’s Republic” in 1946 after described in his masterpiece Iliad a Thracian king, a controversial referendum. The Communist regime having “the biggest and the most handsome horses lasted until November 10th, 1989 when Bulgaria I have ever seen, /whiter than snow and swifter peacefully ousted the Communist Party leader Todor than the winds/and a chariot finely wrought with Zhivkov. silver and gold.” The newly established state acquired political One of the first signs of Bulgaria’s democratization after recognition from the Byzantine Empire in 681 A.D. 1989 was the establishment of a multi-party system. The state was ruled by its founder Khan Asparuh, The new Constitution of the Republic of Bulgaria, the leader of the proto-Bulgarians and the first adopted on July 12, 1991, proclaimed the country as Bulgarian capital was Pliska. a parliamentary republic. On March 29, 2004 Bulgaria During that period the Slavic alphabet was created joined NATO, and on January 1st, 2007 the country in 855. It was called Cyrillic alphabet, named after became a member of the European Union. Bulgaria in Brief 5

Religion mainly at the mountain outskirts. There are many spa resorts situated in Bankya, Velingrad and A full freedom of the religious denominations is Sandanski. Worth to mention are also the mineral proclaimed in the Constitution of the Republic of baths of Stara Zagora, Narechen, Sliven and Bulgaria. Haskovo, as well as Kyustendil, Varshets, Hissarya, According to the census from 2011, 76% of the Merichleri, Momin Prohod and Kostenets. population are Eastern Orthodox Christians, 10 % are Beautiful lakes lie hidden in the cirques of Rila and Muslims, 0.8% - Catholics, 1.1% are Protestants and Pirin Mountains. There are also dams, surrounded 0,2 % belong to other religions. by impressive nature, such as Iskar Dam, Batak Official Language and Alphabet Dam, Dospat Dam and etc. The official language is Bulgarian and the official Flora and Fauna alphabet is Cyrillic. The Bulgarian language belongs Bulgaria is still rich in locations where the natural to the group of the Slavonic languages. Serbo- beauty has been preserved almost unspoiled and Croatian and Russian are the most similar languages the flora demonstrates remarkable diversity. A to it. Other languages as English, German, French, total of 12 360 species have been found in our Russian and Spanish are spoken and used frequently country. There are more than 12 National parks by 40 % of the population. across the country with various natural reserves on their territory. The Bulgarian endemic plants, Topography which are to be found nowhere else in the world, The country’s relief is varied (from 0 to 2,925 m include more than 250 species: Rila Primrose, above the sea level) and above 60 % of the territory Balkan Violet, Bulgarian Blackberry, Rhodope Tulip, are forests and mountainous. The most famous etc. Forests abound with various wild fruits – all mountains are: Rila (with the highest mountain peak of them of proven and distinctive flavor. There is on the Balkan Peninsula Mussala – 2 925 m), Pirin also a great diversity of animal species. Bulgaria’s (Vihren Peak – 2 914 m), the Central Balkan (Botev fauna numbers more than 13,000 representatives. Peak – 2 376 m), the Rhodope Mountains (Golyam Rare mammal species are also to be found in the Perelik Peak – 2 191 m) and Mountain near country. Sofia (Cherni Vrah Peak – 2 290 m). Communication Numerous natural phenomena are scattered across The country offers a relatively good highway the country: mountain passes and gorges, rock- network, including six international highways, which pyramids and bizarre rock formations, numerous connect Europe with the Orient, and the North with caves and waterfalls, beautiful lakes. Some of the the South part of the continent. Four out of the ten most famous natural sights are: the Melnik Pyramids, Trans-European corridors cross the territory of the Fossil Forest, the Belogradchik Rocks; the gorges Bulgaria – IV, VIII, IX and X. of the rivers Trigradska in the Rhodopes and Erma For more information about the main roads and near the town of Tran, Vratsata; the valleys of the motorways in Bulgaria check out the table below: rivers Iskar, Struma and Mesta, the canyon of the Motorway From: To: km Roussenski Lom River; the Srebarna Lake; the rock monastery Aladja off the city of Varna, etc. A1 Trakia Sofia Burgas 360 There is a great diversity of karsts forms, among A2 Hemus Sofia Varna 433 them there are 4,600 caves. The deepest cave in A3 Struma Pernik Kulata 156 Bulgaria is Raichova Dupka (387 m deep), and the longest is Duhlata (17,600 m long). The best known A4 Chirpan K.Andreevo 117 caves are the Ledenika, the Magurata and the Saeva Maritsa Dupka, the caves in the Balkan range and also the A5 Cherno Varna Burgas 95 caves in the Rhodope Mountains- the Snezhanka, More the Yagodinskata, the Dyavolsko Garlo, and the A6 Lyulin Sofia Pernik 19

Uhlovitsa Caves. A7 Sofia Kalotina 50 Waters Kalotina Bulgaria boasts a huge variety and number of mineral The first airline in the country, Sofia-Burgas, was springs of various chemical compositions, suitable opened in 1947. Today there are four Bulgarian for prophylaxis and treatment for many diseases. airports, servicing commercial airlines: Burgas There are about 600 mineral water sources in Airport (BOJ), Plovdiv Airport (PDV), Sofia Airport Bulgaria with more than 1,600 springs, located (SOF) and Varna Airport (VAR). 6 Bulgaria in Brief

Petrol stations on the territory of the Republic of ATTENTION: Driving road vehicles on the Vignette Bulgaria offer petrol with octane numbers 92, 98 and Network without a valid vignette is a violation and 95 H-unleaded, as well as diesel fuel. subject to sanctions in accordance to the Road Traffic Railway roads have total length of 6 500 km and most Law. Assess carefully the duration of your stay and of them is operated by electric powered engines. buy appropriate vignette. Border and Customs Regulations On the 1st of January 2007 Bulgaria joined the European Union. Visitors arriving from the EU don’t CITY need a visa, but should carry a passport or other INFO valid identity document confirming the nationality of GUIDES the bearer. .com Citizens of some non-EU countries may travel to Bulgaria for tourism and business purposes without a visa if the planned stay in Bulgaria does not exceed For more info, search for Varna, 90 days. For further information visit the website of Burgas and Plovdiv City Info Guide, the Bulgarian Embassy or Consulate in your country. www.cityinfoguides.com All other foreigners may cross the border of the Republic of Bulgaria if they hold a valid passport and “Bulgaria in miniatures”- a mobile guide an appropriate visa (Airport Transit Visa, Transit Visa, A unique information system was launched on the Regular Visa or Work Visa). As of 2012, Schengen Bulgarian National Holiday (3 March) 2006, which visa holders have the right for a stay of up to 30 cannot be found anywhere else in Europe. days within 6 months period, without a short-stay Bulgarian and non-Bulgarian visitors alike can now Bulgarian visa. receive information about some of the most popular Visitors must have proof of sufficient funds (according historical monuments and natural phenomena in to the duration and the conditions of their stay) Bulgaria. “Bulgaria in miniatures” is a mobile guide and onward or return tickets in addition to other created with the support of the three national mobile documents needed for the next destination. Valid health insurance is required. phone providers. The most significant historical All visitors of Bulgaria, other than EU nationals, must monuments and natural sites in the capital and register as foreigners at the passport directorate other towns have now been sign-posted with on 48, Maria Luisa Blvd. (9th–12th Counter) within specially assigned number which visitors could five days of their arrival. This registration is usually dial in order to find information about them in done as a matter of course through the hotel or Bulgarian and English. The sites in Sofia include: accommodation establishment. Immigration and entry Alexander Nevski Cathedral, Saint Sophia Basilica, regulations are very strictly enforced. Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, the Monument Passports of all visitors should be valid for at least six of Tsar Osvoboditel, the National Arts Gallery, the months on entry for those requiring a visa, and three National Foreign Art Gallery, Sofia City Hall, Ivan months on entry for visa exempt nationals other than Vazov’s House-Museum, the National Theatre of those from EU countries, whose passports must be valid for the period of stay. Ivan Vazov, the Parliament Building, the Unknown Soldier Monument, Saint George Rotund, Sofia Vignette System University of Kliment Ohridski, Bulgarian National The Vignette system is valid for the National Road Bank, Boyana Church, the National Library of Cyril Network, except for the ring roads and by-pass and Mehtodius, Vasil Levski Monument, Vasil roads of populated areas as well as the roads within Levski Stadium, and The Russian church of Saint populated areas. Buying a vignette, you have the Nicolas. right to use over 300 km of motor ways and over The price for the service is 1.20 leva per minute 18 000 km of roads for the period specified on the incl. VAT with the call duration varying between 3 vignette sticker. and 5 minutes depending on the site. Where to buy a vignette from? There are more than 3000 points of sale, incl. gas- Unesco Heritage stations, post offices, banks etc..You can also buy a The UNESCO List of World Heritage now features vignette from all border-crossing points (BPCs) of the over 300 landmarks in our country. Nine Bulgarian Republic of Bulgaria. There you will find the units of wonders - seven cultural and two natural sites – are REA (designated with the relevant mark). These units included among them: Rila Monastery, Nessebar, are open 24 hours. The prices of vignettes are in BGN. The Kazanluk Tomb, The Sveshtari Tomb, The Bulgaria in Brief 7 8 Bulgaria in Brief

Madara Horseman, The Boyana Church, The Ivanovo Shkembe – tripe soup with garlic, vinegar Rock Monasteries, Pirin National Park, Sreburna and chili, quite tasty if you can bring yourself to try it Lake. Tarator – cold yoghurt and cucumber soup. Rural Tourism Meat Dishes In the recent years village tourism in Bulgaria Kavarma – meat and vegetable stew, usually served successfully competes with similar activities in other in individual pots European countries. The stay in a Bulgarian village Kyufteta – spicy meat balls provides a unique opportunity to submerge in a Kebaptcheta – spicy minced grilled meat, look like traditional environment and lifestyle, which spans sausages over the ages. Just imagine magical views, charming Vegetarian Dishes villas, guest houses and family hotels, organic food, (or sirene) pane – fried yellow (or white) hospitable local people, over 600 mineral springs, the cheese scent of the rose oil and you will gain only a glimpse Chushki byurek – fried peppers stuffed with egg of what awaits you in the Bulgarian countryside. and cheese Adventure Tourism Sirene po shopski – white cheese, egg, tomatoes and peppers baked in a pot. Adventure tourism in Bulgaria is gaining strong momentum because all regions of the country are Desserts equally suitable for high-adrenaline thrills. In most of The Garash torta is the Bulgarian equivalent of the the mountains you can enjoy incredible rock caves, Sacher Torte, made from eggs, walnuts and cocoa. climb amazing peaks, and finally, soar in the skies Snacks with a paraglider. Some of our famous resorts like Snacks (‘zakuska’) are available almost everywhere Bansko, Borovets and Pamporovo offer plenty of in tiny shops or from stands on the street. opportunities to practice winter extreme sports. – fillo dough pastry filled with white cheese Gevrek – like a very dry bagel, sold from big bags on street corners. Local cuisine in Bulgaria is a colorful mix of oriental and Balkan dishes. While the , Homemade Alchohol the Rhodope banitsa pastry and the tarator an Rakia – A type of high-grade liquor is a magic drink no enthusiastic welcome, the boza (a drink made of one can resist. If you are invited to a Bulgarian home, fermented millet) and the tripe soup could may your host will proudly offer you some aged „slivovitza“ not please your taste but you should at least try (plum rakia) or „grozdanka“ (made of grapes). The very them. Bulgarian cuisine consists of plenty of fresh first glass is certain to raise your spirit but after the third vegetables, eaten raw, roasted or stewed with meat one you may have a splitting headache on the next in terra-cotta pots, lots of garlic, onions, sunflower day. „Drink in moderation” is a recommendation left to oil and spices. Influences of Bulgaria’s neighbours, everyone’s best judgment. Turkey and Greece are also present in dishes such Bulgarian wines – Wine producing in Bulgaria has a as ‘sarmi’ (stuffed vine leaves), moussaka and long history and traditions, dating back to the Thracians. baklava. A salad and rakia (Bulgarian schnapps) are In1980 Bulgaria was the world’s second largest wine the obligatory start for a meal. producer. In nowadays the county is still one of the You may find some traditional Bulgarian Dishes, biggest exporters of wine in the world. All Bulgarian wine listed below which are worth trying: styles keep their recipes as a secret, but they will amaze you with their taste, high-quality and affordable prices. Salads You should try for sure the red varieties Mavrud, Melnik Shopska salata – chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, and Gamza, and white one – Keratsuda. onions and peppers sprinkled with Bulgarian white cheese Tips Snezhanka – thick creamy yoghurt with chopped Features About Bulgarians cucumber or gherkins, walnuts and garlic • One unique feature is that Bulgarians most often nod – roasted aubergines, peppers, loads of for ‘no’ and shake their heads for ‘yes’. Watch out! It can garlic, parsley lead to a funny confusion. Soups • It is common courtesy to take flowers when invited to Bob chorba – traditional bean soup with plenty of someone’s home. These should be an odd number i.e. 3, herbs 5 or 7 stems. 2, 4 or 6 stems are taken only at funerals. Bulgaria in Brief 9

•Bulgarians are a hospitable nation and they will lay a plenty of food on the table for you. Do your best not to leave anything on your plate or you will hurt your hostess. If your hosts have young children, remember to bring a bar of chocolate or some treats for them. • Tipping in a restaurant is expected – around 10-15%, even when the service has been dire. Taxi drivers expect a tip too, in the same percentages. • Many public places charge small fees to use their bathrooms, usually 0,20-0,50 leva. Some of them still have porcelain ‘squat pots’ instead of real toilets. Monthly Holidays 1st May – Labour Day 2nd May – St. Boriss’ Day (“Borisov Den”) 11th May – Saints Cyril and Methodius Day Boris derives from “pine”. In mythology the pine tree The church celebration is devoted to the brothers is the symbol of immortality for it was considered to Cyril and Methodius who received the title “Apostles be in fact the body of the dead and then resurrected of the Slavs” for influencing the religious and cultural God who is the one that changes the seasons. That development of all Slavic folk and creating the Slavic day, the Orthodox Church celebrates the feastday of alphabet, which is now called Cyrillic. Tsar Boris-Mihail The Baptist of Bulgarians. People called Cyril and Methodius have their name Name day celebrate all those called Boris, day. Borislava, Boryana, Borko

6th May – St. George’s Day 21st May – Saints Constantin and Helen The holiday is devoted to the Martyr St. George – The This holiday is celebrated mainly from the church in Victor, considered to be the patron saint of herds almost the whole country and honors Constantin the and the protector of domestic animals and their Greatest and his mother Helen. owners. An animal is given as a sacrifice on this day and According to the tradition, on this day a lamb, the whole village shares a table. A fire dancing is a which has been fed with salt, bran and grass, is custom that can be seen in some villages between slain under a fruit tree in the yard of the host. All Strandzha and the Black Sea, around Bourgas. members of the family then sit at the table and Name day celebrate all those called Konstantin, take part in eating the “kurban” (the roasted lamb). Kosta, Dinko, Elena and Elka The holiday is celebrated as Day of Bravery and the Bulgarian Army too. 24th May Name day celebrate all those called Georgi, Day of Bulgarian Education and Culture and of the Gergana, Ginka, Galya, Galina, Ganka, Gancho Slavic letters 10 Bulgaria in Brief Bulgaria in Brief 11 12 Bulgaria in Brief

When the Sun Baths It is believed, that on a certain day each year the sun comes down to a river, or a sea, and dances amongst the waves, baths,and after that it leaves the earthly and heads back towards winter. The date is 24th of June, and it is believed that on this day summer comes to an end and the road to winter reappears. The Eastern Orthodox Church celebrates on the 24th the birth of John the Baptist. In its heart the celebration is Slavic, with roots in all the Slavic nations and is distinguished by the Orthodox populace. On that day it is tradition for women to get up early and witness the sunrise, before the sun comes down to bath, afterwards they collect herbs and make a garland. Then after, women and children would pass through it so they may be healthy during the year. In the eastern province of Bulgaria, maidens would carry out the “Eniova Bulia” tradition (roughly a bride of Enio /John/), by first gathering herbs and pouring “Silent Water” before sunrise. The name of the “Silent Water” comes from the deed being carried out in a silent reverence. After gathering the herbs, the maidens would dress up an orphan child in a bride’s dress and a red veil, and would carry her on their shoulders, singing special songs for the occasion. It is done for health and prosperity, so they go along the fields, the gardens, and through the village. They also play the horo, a traditional Bulgarian dance. The girls would end their round in a certain house, where the “laduvane” (the prophecy) will take place. Every maiden throws a medley or a ring in a cauldron, and then the “bride” will take out the items as a luck charm, whilemaidens sing a chanting song. The luck charm would foretell who will be the maiden’s husband. It is an exquisitely colorful event and a festivity, for it is the name day for many Slavic people. Author Diko Boutchoukov Photo by Assen Velikov Bulgaria in Brief 13 14 Bulgaria in Brief Bulgaria in Brief 15 16 SOFIABulgaria - PLEIN in Brief AIR SHOPPING

Are you wondering what the link between shopping and art is? Bearing the ancient name of Bulgaria’s capital, Serdica art gallery holds the answer to this question. Its location is quite strange but this is exactly what makes it extraordinary. Situated in the heart of the so called Women’s market on Stefan Stambolov Blvd. the gallery attracts numerous citizens and visitors of the city. The market itself has been a place of spirit and traditions since 1878 which makes it the oldest one in Sofia. It is an open-air gallery for its variety of fresh products and goods. Each day the exhibitors arrange their merchandise with the utmost precision and care. Fruits, vegetables, honey, nuts, yoghurt, fresh meat, original Bulgarian pottery, you name it - all there awaiting the right art connoisseur. If you feel tired from browsing through this magnificent exhibition you can always take a break and relax on one of the many benches while contemplating a certain work of art. More than 40 000 people visit it each day since here art is at very affordable prices. The opening hours are from 8:00 to 22:00 and admission is free.

1 St. Aleksander Nevski Cathedral

If you feel like buying directly from the artist, visit the following farmers markets: the Roman Wall on Hristo Smirnenski str., on Saturdays from 10.00 to 14.00; Ivan Vazov on Balsha str., on Wednesdays from 15.00 to 19.00 and Mladost 1, inside Reya shopping centre, on Fridays from 15.00 to 19.00. The exhibitions consist mainly of groceries but one can also find herbs, honey, jams, cookies, drinks, etc. All works of art are representatives of Naturalism and have been created to support your healthy and sustainable lifestyle. Would you like to submerge in the world of art and observe how it is being made? Well then, be sure to visit the open-air saloons by Aleksandar Nevski Cathedral. Most works of art are handcrafted by experienced female artists who are always eager to show you how they are made. The items vary: from beautiful traditional textiles to colourful decorations for the house. Or, perhaps you would like a taste of Bulgaria’s history. Check out the Antiques market, close by the Cathedral - postcards, stamps, historical photographs, war souvenirs, each with a fascinating story. And besides, where else have you had the opportunity to bargain over the price of a work of art? Bulgaria in Brief 17

Women’s market

Women’s market 18 overview SOFIA CITY REGION Population: 1 291 591 Area: 1 310, 8 sq. km (1.2% of the national territory) Area dialing code: + 359 (0) 2 Main city: Sofia (capital) The capital city of Bulgaria is situated in the geographic center of Southeastern Europe thus serving as a natural bridge to the Middle East. The Sofia Municipality city is easily accessible being only two hours away 33, Moskovska Str. (map E3) by plane from the Central European capitals Vienna & 02 937 73 03 and Budapest, and provided with an easy transport www.sofia.bg connection to the other big European cities. The largest city in Bulgaria. tourists and business travelers have a smooth way The motto of the city is “Growing without aging”, into the city, its airport servicing 295 regular flights approved by the City Council in 1900. per week, operated by 20 foreign and 6 Bulgarian During the years of the totalitarian communist airlines, covering to about 40 destinations all over regime (9 September 1944 – 10 November 1989) the world. Sofia has became the most important national economic, academic and cultural centre. From the Land epoch of the so called “socialist growth”, however, The region occupies the central part of the Sofia the capital inherited a great deal of problems, the Plain (with average altitude of 550 m) and it is resolving of which are at present the top priority of encircled by the Balkan Mountains (in the north) and the democratically elected City council of Sofia. the Vitosha Mountain and the Lyulin Mountain (in Near Sofia lies the Boyana church, which is one the south). The area has an abundance of curative of the most valuable memorials of Bulgarian mineral springs (Gorna Banya, Ovcha Kupel, and European culture also listed as a “UNESCO Bankya). The Vitosha Mountain is an international heritage”. The church is full of wonderful frescoes, winter sports destination. acclaimed by specialists as “the best examples of Eastern mediaeval art during its twelve centuries Climate history”. The capital city enjoys hot summers, snowy winters and beautiful springs and autumns. People, Towns and Culture The population of Sofia is almost 1.5 million people Through the Centuries with a high to average population density. In the past Founded seven thousand years ago, Sofia is the couple of years the unemployment rate in the city second oldest European city. It has been given has been the lowest in the country. The workforce several names in the course of history. While walking in Sofia is highly educated, motivated and flexible. on the streets of Sofia today, people can still see the The city creates and develops 80% of the intellectual remnants from older civilizations can still be seen. recourse in the country with 19 universities situated Serdika was the name of the central dwelling of the on its territory. ancient Thracian tribe known as “Serdi”. It bored that Sofia has been the capital of Bulgaria since April name when it became part of the Bulgarian state at 3, 1879. It is the permanent seat of the National the beginning of the ninth century and was soon Assembly (the Parliament), the President, the recognized as one of the most important feudal Council of Ministers, the central governing bodies towns. At that point in time the city acquired the of various agencies, political parties and public Slavic name Sredets. organizations. Sofia accommodates also the cultural The decline of Sofia during the Ottoman Empire institutions in Bulgaria. was followed by its rejuvenation after its liberation in 1879, when Sofia was chosen as the capital of Economy Bulgaria at the First National Constituent Assembly in Sofia is the biggest and the most dynamic center of Veliko Tarnovo. In the next decades the architectural the economic life in Bulgaria. The Gross Domestic plans of 1881-1882 for the renovation of the city Product (GDP), generated in Sofia, forms around were followed by a brisk and straight-forward period 29% of the national GDP. Half of the foreign direct of construction and soon Sofia has became the investments in Bulgaria are concentrated in the overview 19 capital. One third of the annual tax revenues in hours on working days and weekends/holidays. the national budget come from Sofia. The service The metro station at Sofia Airport is located in the sector is far more developed than the production eastern part of Terminal 2, for easy access follow one. Industry plays a secondary role and the most the blue marking lines on the floor at the public area developed sectors are machine tool engineering and at the Terminal 2. If your flight arrives at Terminal 1 metal processing, metallurgy, food and beverage you can take the free-of-charge shuffle bus between production, paper and textile industries. The private the two terminal buildings. sector in Sofia is forming 90% of the city economy. Transport Banks and Exchange The street names are written in Cyrillic, which might Money can be exchanged safely at most banks and also make finding your bearings harder. Therefore if the at reputable exchange bureaus. (Hotels and airports map is not sufficient, please ask a local to show tend to give less favorable rates). Exchange bureaus you the way. In many places around the city centre are required to display clearly the exact exchange rates there are large billboards with a public transport city and they are no longer allowed to charge a commission map in English, which may also serve as a point of for money exchange, so check this first. For a valid direction and reference. exchange rates you can check the web-site of the Driving in Sofia may be a traumatic a experience Bulgarian national bank - www.bnb.bg. particularly, during rush hours (8.00-10.00 h and Banking hours run from 08.30 to 16.30 Monday 17.00-19.00 h). Traffic jams are inevitable along the to Friday. Some banks are also open till 17.00. central city roads and the busier peripheral capital There are also some bank offices situated in big boulevards. A common occurrence along the A1 commercial centers which are open till 22.00 and and A2 motorways, and the international E 79 route, through the weekends. Exchange bureaus are are the Friday night and Sunday afternoon queues of usually open from 09.00 until 17.00 or 18.00 and traffic as a lot of capital resident’s drive in and out stay open later in the summer. Some of them are to the countryside. open 24 hours throughout the summer. Sofia has In the event of an accident, the traffic police (KAT – plenty of ATMs, with particular concentration in the 165, 02 982 49 01) should be called and a report city center. European and North American debit and will have to be filed. The process is lengthy but credit cards are accepted in the country. necessary for any insurance claims. (Check with your rent-a-car company about formalities!) At Airport Information the event of a breakdown, there is a 24-hour Road For flight information: www.sofia-airport.bg Assistance service: 02 91 146, from cell phone: Located 10 km (6 miles) east of the city centre, the 146. busy two-terminal airport is linked to the most of The central dispatch office is open 24 hours a day the world capitals. The bright, modern and smoke- and is located at 3, Pozitano Str. (02 980 33 08). free Sofia Airport has the capacity to serve 2.5 English and German are the spoken languages there. million passengers. The new “Terminal 2” building Charges for towing range – there is a basic fee of is designed with special attention to disabled Euro 10 plus Euro 1.40 per km. The usual waiting passengers. A large parking lot is located in front of time is between 5 and 30 minutes. the old terminal building. A new multi-level parking garage providing 820 parking spaces is linked to the Car Parks departures area of the new passenger terminal. The The main car parking areas in the centre are: car parks are open non-stop and parking fee is 2 to • Makedonia Sq. 3 leva per hour. Avoid taking airport taxis other than • TZUM (Maria Luiza Blvd.) “O.K. Supertrans”, which provides services to the • The corner of Evlogi Georgiev Blvd. and Gurko Str. city centre for BGN 10/ Euro 5. The regular N84 bus • The corner of Evlogi Georgiev and Yanko Sakazov line covers the route Sofia Airport–Sofia University. Blvd. You can also get on the subway. Sofia Metro Line 1 • The corner of Frityof Nansen and Bulgaria Blvd. connects Sofia Airport to many central locations and (NDK, underground) provides many other connections through the city. If • NDK (Vitosha Blvd.) you switch trains from Line 1 to Line 2 at Serdika You may park for up to 2 hours in the city centre, Metro Station, you can travel to the Sofia Central Bus in the designated “blue zones” and 4 hours in the Station and Sofia Central Railway Station. The metro “green zones”: opposite the Parliament, by the system is working from 05.30 am until the midnight National Art Gallery, off Rakovski Street near the 20 overview

Cathedral, etc. The fee for up to one hour parking credit cards. Ask at the information desk if you need is 2 leva. Vouchers are usually sold by attendants in any help to buy a ticket for your destination. About these locations and they will help you fill them out. 2 250 travelers per hour pass through the waiting (Please note: some car parks are privately run and room which also offer a lot of comfort while you prices vary). are waiting. Use your common sense and don’t park in restricted zones even if everyone else seems to be doing Railway so. Sofia City Council are hot on the heels of their Central Railway Station (Tsentralna Gara), Knyaginya Western counterparts with yellow wheel clamps, and Maria Luiza Blvd. 102 A (See the location on the if that’s not bad enough they’ll even tow your car map.). www.bdz.bg away, usually to the car park near the Hilton Hotel or This is the main railway station with regular daily the one next to the Central Railway Station. services to many destinations in Bulgaria and abroad. Train travel is relatively cheap if you are prepared to Postal Services put up with longer travelling times. On the other Central post station – hand for those who feel daunted driving–it is a more 6, Gen. Y.V. Gurko Str. (7-20.30h) relaxing way to see the country. First class is quite Main postal rates: small letters - 0.60lv. (For BG) affordable. You must book your seats before your Package (parcels) 0-1kg - 2.15lv. (For BG), trip. 23.70 - 46.90lv.(for EU) to 5kg - 3lv.(For BG), 43.20-179.90lv.(For EU). Taxi All legal and registered taxi cabs must be yellow and Public Transport operated by meter. Rates per km are between 0.79 Sofia offers cheap and extensive public transport. – 0.96 leva. Any starting and call-out charges must There are trams, buses, and trolley buses as well as be displayed on the back side windows according to 2 lines of the city subway which covers most parts the law. of the city (Please see map for details!). There is also a fleet of privately run “Marsh-route taxis”, which Travelers with Disabilities covers more obscure routes. (Ticket price 1.50 lv. Sofia isn’t the best place in the world to visit if you Pay the driver as you get on and ask for your receipt.) have mobility problems or other physical disabilities. Public transport runs daily approximately from 5.30 Although all public buildings are required to be till 23.00. wheelchair-accessible and provide suitable toilet The tickets for all kinds of Sofia public transport cost facilities, this is still a matter of future development. 1 BGN for a single trip. Travel cards: One day, all lines – 4.00 leva; One month, all lines – 50.00 leva. Daily Costs Single trip tickets are sold at kiosks and newspaper By Western European standards, Sofia is very stands at the major stops or by the driver of the reasonably priced, especially regarding to the most vehicle. You have to check them inside the vehicle basic items – from food to clothing. As for dining and (Look for the metal punch on the walls of the vehicle. drinking, the sheer number of restaurants and bars The punchers are mostly painted in orange). keep the prices down. If you wish to transfer, you must use another single On the other hand, accommodation in Sofia is trip ticket. If your luggage exceeds the size 60x40x40 generally more expensive than in the rest of the you have to punch a second ticket. The same rule country and prices are analogous to the average applies if you travel together with your pet. Tickets European ones. are inspected at random by conductors. The fine is If you are prepared to buy your own lunch, stay in 20.00 leva. hostels and stick to the least expensive bars and restaurants, you could scrape by on around BGN Bus Lines 70/Euro 35. If you are staying in a good B&B, eating The Central Bus Station, Knyaginya Maria Luiza Blvd. out in medium-range restaurants most of the nights 100 (See the location on the map.). and drinking often in bars, you’ll go through at least A waiting room (1500 sq. m. total area) and 57 BGN 150/Euro 75. If you are planning to stay in the ticket desks are situated at the ground floor. The best hotels and to have a big night out, you must tickets payment can be done in cash or by debit and be prepared to spend at least BGN 500/Euro 250. AUTHENTICoverview 21 BULGARIAN CUISINE Restaurant POD LIPITE Phone: 02 871 00 69, 02 971 71 62

1010 Phone: 02 871 00 69 02 971 71 62

Spring 2014 24 March - 11 April 1, Elin 28 April Pelin - 16 May Str. phone: 02/ 26 May866 - 13 50 June 53

02/ 866 50 59 Phone: 02 871 00 69 cell: 0886 80 12 27 02 971 71 62

Generally if you are traveling alone you’ll spend much numerous art galleries and exhibition halls. The city more on accommodation than you would in a group hosts a series of international concerts and festivals of two or more. Most hotels do have single rooms, and the ticket prices are significantly lower than in but their prices are fixed at about 70-80 % of the price other countries in Central and Eastern Europe. of a double room. Sofia offers fantastic choice of restaurants at Medical Services comparatively modest prices. The citizens and Have comprehensive travel and medical insurance to visitors of the city can choose from more than cover the full period of your stay in the country. 3000 restaurants, cafes and bars which offer an If you are EU citizen, you need to take an EHIC with excellent cuisine and a wide variety of good-quality you. The card gives you access to state-provided wines. Our recommendation is to avoid the extras medical treatment only. You will not be covered for and concentrate on the main courses, which start medical repatriation, on-going medical treatment or at around BGN 10/Euro 5. Tipping in a restaurant is treatment of a non-urgent condition. The standards expected – around 10-15%, even when the service of medical care are excellent. The Accident and has been dire. Taxi drivers expect a tip too, in the Emergency Hospital for Sofia is the Pirogov hospital same percentages. at 21, Gen. Totleben Blvd., opposite the Rodina Hotel ( 02 915 44 11). There is a ward for foreigners in the University Entertainment Hospital “Sv. Anna” in Mladost-1 ( 02 975 90 00). The city is a pleasant location to live and have fun in. Your Embassy may be able to refer you to a doctor Sofia’s appeal is in its cosmopolitan atmosphere and who speaks your language. various opportunities for entertainment and tourism. For emergencies use: Ambulance - 112 The prices are definitely among the lowest in Europe. (See the Daily cost section above). Other useful numbers: Sofia is also the local point of cultural and artistic life 24-hour pharmacies: & 178 in the country and boasts above 30 movie theatres PrivatePolyclinic: IMC - & 02 944 93 26 and 20 theatre scenes, circa 30 museums and 22 overview

SOFIA - THE CAPITAL Sredets was indicative of its central location on the Balkan Peninsula. The city situated in the centre of Moesia, Thrace and Macedonia has been the official centre of the Bulgarian nation for 127 years, since shortly after the liberation of the country from Ottoman rule, where it was declared the capital of Bulgaria. In the city named after an early Christian temple and with almost a million and a half population, there are more than 70 Eastern Orthodox churches and monasteries, many of The Bulgarian capital carries the name of which have become emblematic for the Bulgarian St. Sofia, inspired by the name ot the church St. capital whose the motto of which is: “Growing Sofia, and is one of the oldest cities in Europe. without aging”. As early as the Neolithic age the territory of The city centre is an eclectic mix of Stalin-era the present-day million city was inhabited by neoclassical and West European architecture, primitive societies. Archaeologists continue to which enchants with its aristocratic atmosphere discover implements and tools from the Stone, feel and Eastern charm. Copper and Bronze ages in the city and in its Sofia is the only European capital, situated in vicinity. the foothills of a mountain that rises up to 2500 m Sofia’s rich history is illuminated by the in height and where the distance to modern ski- sanctity and symbolism of its name (Sofia – the runs is a mere 20 minute by car from its centre. holy Lady of wisdom). In 4th c. AD, Emperor In Vitosha, which has been declared a National Constantine the Great exclaimed – “Serdika is Park, there are two reserves and a multitude of my Rome”, with reference to the city, that saw natural sites with stunning beauty. rise and fall, that assumed different faces, and From ancient times, Sofia was well-known as became known by different names – Serdika, a spa centre, thanks to its 18 healing mineral and Sredets, Triaditsa and Sofia. thermal springs. Those springs are depicted on As early as the rule of the Roman Emperor its cote-of-arms and have been drawing settlers Marcus Ulpius Trayan (98-117) Serdika was and conquerors from ancient times to these days. a polis described by the most distinguished The cultural heritage of Sofia combines traces historians in Antiquity as “expansive and noble”, from the civilizations of the Neolith andthe as well as “big and famous”. Thracians, of the ancient Greeks and Romans, In the heart of the city that emerged 2800 of the Slavs and the proto-Bulgarians and the years ago, rises the Saint Sofia Basilica – the Ottomans, These tribes and ethnicities molded symbol which is the main element of the capital the face of the city through victories and defeats city’s cote-of-arms. Erected in the early 6th and through consequent cultural influence. The century, the temple became such an impressive socialist realism and the dynamic changes of site of the town, that following the 14th century modernity are still defining the development of everyone started referring to it with the name Sofia in quite controversial manner, but are also Sofia, which replaced the Slavic name Sredets part of its cultural heritage and inextinguishable used in the previous centuries. The toponym charm. overview 23

Experience the spiritual energy • The Ethnographic Museum preserves and of the most beautiful churches exhibits over 50,000 artifacts illustrating the life in the capital and the traditions of the Bulgarian people. • The Archaeological Museum is the oldest • St. Alexander Nevsky Temple Church museum in the country and one of the largest in - the largest Cathedral Temple on the Balkan Europe. Peninsula. • The National Military History Museum keeps the richest Bulgarian state collections of • St. Sofia Church - one of the oldest churches weapons, uniforms, flags andphotographs. in Sofia, which gave its name to the city. Do not miss the symbols • St. George Rotunda - the oldest building in of Bulgarian art and culture Sofia, included in UNESCO’s World Heritage list. • The National Art Gallery presents over • Boyana Church - beautifully preserved 3,000 artworks by famous Bulgarian artists. monument of the Bulgarian medieval art with over 240 murals. It is also entered in UNESCO’s • The City Art Gallery of Sofia contains one World Heritage list. of the richest collection of Bulgarian art. • - the third largest Jewish • The National Opera and Ballet Theatre temple in Europe. is the exact place, where you can hear world - famous stars of the opera art and watch original • Sveta Nedelya Cathedral Church - it is ballet performances. located in the very heart of the city center and Visit emblematic places where you has 800-years history. can feel the pulse of the capital • Russian Church “St. Nikolay” is one of • The open-air art bazaar at the Alexander Sofia’s most attractive tourist landmarks and Nevsky Square (mapE3) is also preferred by the professional and non- professional photographers. • The most famous shopping and pedestrian area is the offers plenty • was built in 16th The of shops to splash out in and also many century and it is the only functioning mosque in modern cafeterias and restaurants for your Sofia. The mosque is a remnant of the Ottoman entertainment(mapB5;B3) rule of Bulgaria. • The park in front of the National Palace of Learn about the rich history Culture (NDK) (map D4) • Vitosha National Park - the mountain which is of the country by visiting Sofia’s the local’s favorite hike and getaway destination most famous museums (map back) Delight in the verve of Bulgarian folklore and • The National History Museum is one of taste traditional Bulgarian hospitality by visiting the largest historical museums on the Balkans, an authentic Bulgarian restaurant preserving over 650 cultural monuments and Stay longer than planned and return again to the artifacts. city that carries the name which means Wisdom!

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. 24 overview SOFIA THROUGH THEIR EYES

Tim Gubel is born in 1984 in Brussels but he has been living in Sofia for 7 years yet. Tim shared with us his story about how much really loves Bulgaria,” his second home” as he refers to it. The Belgian runs a small call-center on one hand, but his main job is in the music industry. He works in the fields of music and event management and production, organizing concerts and festivals and producing the band Oratnitza. His main mission is to promote Bulgarian music with a typical Bulgarian touch to it or how he calls it “etno fusion” in Bulgaria and abroad.

- What did you know about Bulgaria before you came here? - Almost nothing. I went on one concert of Teodosii Spasov in Brussels and I really liked it. Then I was looking for a job abroad. By this time I have worked as a clinical psychologist and I was also organizing jazz concerts in Brussels. I wanted to raise my horizon after I’ve been traveling a bit. I wanted to be not only a tourist but to have more deeper experience. And I ended up in Bulgaria. I didn’t know anything about it. I came here and I worked 6 months in the Business Park. I didn’t like it and then I have started my own company and the rest is history. - Why have you decided to stay here? - It all started when I quit my job. I’ve started my first company and I noticed that there is interesting music here. It was a time when the Balkan beat was very popular on the European musical market but that was mainly Romanian, Serbian and Macedonian music and the Bulgarian music wasn’t part of it. May be because of the fact that Bulgarian music isn’t typically like the gypsy orchestra music it’s more emotional, melancholic, a bit more refined. On a mass level nowadays Bulgaria is absolutely underrepresented and when I see opportunities like this I grab them. I organized this competition where any band with any style could participate the only condition was to interpret a Bulgarian folk song. My idea was to re-cross the message that on an international level your chances are higher if you use something unique if you can differentiate yourself of the others thousands bands. There are very unique features to Bulgarian music so why not to use them if you have it already in your roots. A friend of mine from Germany says: “Wide branches need deep roots.”. The winner of the competition was Oratnitza and since then I’ve started to work with them. So this is how I got into the music management and production. There are a lot of opportunities on the market and it is very exciting to see a community which is in progress. More and more I found the reason to stay here. The quality of life is a bit better. Money and infrastructure are not contributing to the happiness. People here are enjoying the life a bit more. You have such a good weather all year around. - Name your favorite places in Sofia? - I like to go to the Bitaka from time to time. It’s a gloomy place but it has something very unique. I like to visit Zhenski bazaar as well. I like to have a coffee on the rooftop café on the National archives. It’s a 20-stories something building with an amazing breathtaking view and you can have a coffee for 40 stotinki. - How you find Sofia as a city to live in? - A lot of my friends come to visit me and more often they tell me: “I don’t know what it is exactly but Sofia reminds me a lot of Brussels.”. I know how odd this may sound. We don’t have mountains and we don’t have so many things that you have but there is something which is very similar. I was thinking about what it could be that it made me feel like home here from the very begging. Mainly because the fact that it is a capital but it’s not a huge city in like global terms. - How have you learn Bulgarian? - I had a few classes during my first job and I bought a book “Learn Bulgarian by yourself”. I made a point to learn 10 new words a day, but the best way was just “Talk. Talk. Talk.” and “Listen. Listen. Listen.”. Most of the people with who I hang out with and my colleges are Bulgarians so I have the chance to speak every day. I’ve never been afraid “of losing my face”, I mean, “of making mistakes”. It’s a beautiful language but also very difficult, you know. I think that I try my best to start speaking it now on the next level. - What is your Bulgarian favorite word? - I will tell you about the world with which I struggled for a long time. It’s “sedmochislenitzi”. My previous office was right next to it and I was saying “Let meet at “Sedmo…”-“Sedmochi”-“You know the church, right”. That was my biggest tomb breaker. - How you’ve learned about Sofia City® Info Guide? - I saw it in couple places. I think you have a very good distribution. I have seen at a hotel’s lobby, at bars and clubs. I think you are doing very good job. overview 25 “DIFFERENT BULGARIA” welcomes the visitors of Bulgaria On May 25th was the official opening of the photography exhibition “Different Bulgaria” at Varna Airport. The passengers will enjoy the beautiful photos by Asen Velikov, which represent a new perspective to Bulgaria, when they are waiting in the area to receive their luggage. The exhibition is organized by “City Info Guides” on the occasion of the 23rd Anniversary of the Publishing and could be seen until June 25th. “Different Bulgaria” will present to the beauty and identity of our country to the arrivals. In the media Bulgaria is represented more often in a negative way with all the news about accidents and bad practices. In the multicultural European society which we are part of nowadays it is hard to keep your roots and past. It is a true fact that it has become even more as a modern trend to be proud of the folklore recently and our team hopes this will continue to be our “advertisement” worldwide. The exhibition is happening with the great support and partnership of “Fraport Twin Star Airport Management” Ltd.

Here is what the author shared with us a few days before the event: - “Different Bulgaria” is your first own exhibition. What should the visitors of the exhibition expect to see? - The exhibition “Different Bulgaria” is a common initiative with Lyudmila Mladenova and it is organized by “City Info Guides” Publishing. At the begging of the summer season we will show the beauty of Bulgaria. I am very pleased by the fact that my photos will be seen by the tourists and guests visiting Bulgaria for vacation or on a business trip. Everybody who comes will have the opportunity to see Bulgaria in a totally different context as it is shown in the news in our everyday life. - How did you choose the photos? - Frankly, I’ve selected the photos very hardly. It turned out that for the last two years I have thousands images of folklore scenes, as well as portraits of Bulgarians in traditional clothing. I have never kept them for myself in a folder on my computer. I have been publishing them constantly online in order to show to everybody who are we as a nation. I think that our folklore and traditions could save our identity and we will find the answers who we want to become while we are keeping the memories of our roots and honor the past of our ancestors. - The exhibition is dedicated to the treasures, the beauty and the identity of Bulgaria – this theme could be seen in your photos. How did you find the inspiration about it? - Exactly, the beauty, the treasures and the identity of Bulgaria inspired me and provoked me to take a photos scenes of the Bulgarian folklore. On the other side, the participants in this events and activities let me near them and I could get know them as a people, their songs and their souls. - What does Bulgaria means to you? - For me the beauty of Bulgaria is in the unique nature on this small piece of land. I had the chance to travel through almost every part of the country and I have found something unique and fascinating in every place that I have visited. Of course, for me the beauty of Bulgaria is in the folklore, customs and traditions too. I hope that the Bulgarians who are no longer living in Bulgaria will see the exhibition when they come back to Bulgaria on a holiday during the summer and they will keep the memory of this beauty remaining in their hearts. 26 overview

St. Alexander Nevski Temple St. Nikolai Russian Church Church (map E3) (map D3) The place for which all tourists make a beeline is the Built in 1912 by Russian workmen, this church St. Alexander Nevski Temple Church. The cathedral was is situated on the corner of Tsar Osvoboditel built in honour of the Russian Tsar Alexander II, also Blvd. and Benkovski Str. The church preserves called here the “Tsar Liberator”, whose army liberated the typical style of Moscow’s decorative arts, Bulgaria from the Ottoman rule, and was named after painting and architecture. The high dome is St. Alexander Nevski, the patron Saint of the Tsar and surrounded by four smaller domes. The external the Romanov dynasty. The foundation stone was laid decoration of the Russian Church is a joy to in 1882 but the building was not completed until 1912. behold with its exquisite and rich colors.

St. George Rotunda Place The Saint Sofia Basilica (map C3) (map E3) The red brick rotunda church of St. George is Is one of the four symbols on the capital’s coat of considered to be the oldest building in Sofia. It arms. After long years of hard work on the project is situated behind the Balkan Hotel, amid remains by a large team of archeologists, historians, of the ancient town of Serdica. Three layers of architects and preservationists, the capital frescoes have been discovered inside the church, residents and visitors will have the opportunity to the earliest dating back to the 10th century. get in touch with the rich archeological heritage Magnificent frescoes of 22 prophets over 2 of Sofia. meters tall crown the dome.

National Assembly The University of Sofia (map E3) St. Kliment Ohridski The Parliament (National Assembly) building, (map E4) listed as a cultural monument, is situated on the is the oldest institution in Bulgaria,founded on square of the same name with Tsar Osvoboditel 1 October, 1888. The edifice of the university Blvd. It was built in three stages from 1884 was constructed between 1924 and 1934 with to 1928, on plans of the Viennese architect the financial support of the brothers Evlogi and Yovanovich. Above the main entrance runs the Hristo Georgievi, whose sculptures are now slogan “Unity Makes Strength”. featured on its facade. overview 27

Sveta Nedelya Cathedral Church Boyana Church (map C3) (map back) Sveta Nedelya Cathedral Church - it is located Boyana Church - beautifully preserved monument in the very heart of the city center and has of the Bulgarian medieval art with over 240 800-years history.The cathedral is home of the murals. It testifies the significant contribution of Sofia bishopric part of the Bulgarian Patriarchate. This medieval church has suffered destruction Bulgarian momumental painting to the Europeaon through the ages and after many reconstructions culture in the Middle Ages and is also entered in become one of the landmarks of Sofia. UNESCO’s World Heritage list.

Sofia Synagogue The Banya Bashi Mosque (map C2) (map C2) the third largest Jewish temple in Europe and the The Banya Bashi Mosque was built in 16th century largest in Southeastern Europe. It symbolized the and it is the only functioning mosque in Sofia. Jewish community of Bulgaria for over a century. The mosque is a remnant of the Ottoman rule of The central Synagogue is the only Jewish house Bulgaria. It’s name come from the phrase “Banya of worship in Sofia and one of the two functioning Bashi”, which means “many baths”. The most in Bulgaria (with the one in Plovdiv). outstanding feature of the mosque is the fact that it was actually built over natural thermal spas.

The Statue of Sofia The Monument (map C3) Tsar Osvoboditel (map E4) The Statue of Sofia, is a twenty-four-meter high is in the centre of Sofia. It was erected in honour monument, It was erected in front of Unicredit of Russian EmperorAlexander II who libered Bulbank in the city center in January 2001 Bulgaria of Ottoman rule.The monument was replacing a communist-era monument of Lenin. completed on 15 September 1903 by italian It weighs four tons and it is molded out of bronze sculptor Amaldo Zocchi. and forged copper. 28 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 2-4, Budapeshta Str. h 2 map D3 & 02 807 07 07 Public transport: & + 359 2 8 107 777 Public transport: fax: 02 807 07 08 B-413,113,213 cell: 0886 10 77 77 Tm -20, 22; Metro e-mail:[email protected] fax: +359 2 8 107 770 www.hisofiahotel.com e-mail: [email protected] Room rates: from EURO 70.00 www.arenadiserdica.com The hotel offers luxurious bedrooms with flat Double rooms - 40, Suites - 23 screen television, Hi-speed & Wi-Fi internet access Room rates: EURO 120 - 280 & separate bath & shower. International Executive Strategically located in the heart of the city, right Chef providing variety of dining experiences rang- next to the major government institutions, business ing from informal all day Brasserie to “InCanto” centers and banks, as well as some cultural and Fine Dining offering Mediterranean Cuisine. 9 historical places, the luxurious Arena di Serdica state of art conference suites for between 10 Residence Hotel is an excellent choice for business to 300 delegates at highly competitive rates. and cultural trips. ESPRIT Fitness & Spa including 19 m indoor swimming pool & gym with latest “Technogym” Grand Hotel Sofia equipment. In close proximity to airport and downtown. Substantial parking available. 130 rooms (116 double/ twin/ 10 Executive/ 4 Suites). 1, Gen. Yosif V. Gurko Str. h 3 map D3 fax: +359 2 811 0801 Public transport: Reservations: Tb-9; Tm-12,17 Sofia Hotel Balkan & +359 2 811 0800 e-mail: [email protected] Room rates: EURO 100-510 5, Sveta Nedelya Sq. h 9 map C3 Located in the very city center, overlooking the City & 02 981 65 41 Public transport: garden on the doorstep of the National Theatre and fax: 02 980 64 64 Metro; Tm-9,10, 12, 18 the City Art Gallery. The hotel features 105 unique Room rates: EURO 135 - 225 spacious rooms of over 50 sq.m. At guest’s disposal Located in the heart of Sofia, it is ideally situated are also 17 comfortable oversized suites including 2 just a stroll from the business and commercial Grand suites and 3 Panorama suites with balcony, providing the finest lodging in Sofia. All rooms have district. Recognized as one of the city’s grandest air condition with individually controlled temperature, hotels and architectural landmarks, the Sheraton satellite and pay TV, inroom safe and electronic lock Sofia offers guests an exceptional experi- system, separate bathtub and shower cabin, bath- ence of Bulgaria’s finest culture and service. room telephone. Direct international dial telephones, Archways of ceiling-high columns, distinctly voicemail messaging and high speed Internet constructed doors and moldings, and import- access. Conference facilities seating from 10 to ed Italian marble floors outline the lobby of 150, gourmet restaurant, café, lobby bar, Private the hotel. Offers 184 splendid, soundproof Lounge, Sofia club, health centre, indoor parking. Accommodation 29 rooms and suites, including one Presidential Suite, 17 spacious suites, 17 smart rooms and 71 non-smoking rooms. Highlights include a complete 24-hour business center, shop- ping, hairdresser/beauty salon, 24-hour con- Casa Boyana Boutique Hotel cierge and room service, butler service, laundry, and dry cleaning available seven days a week. HOTEL 23, Ivanitsa Dantchev Str. h 16 map back Boyana District Public transport: & 02 805 08 00 B-63, 64, 107 fax: 02 805 08 05 e-mail: [email protected] www.casaboyana.com Room rates: EURO 75-175 The new hotel is nestled in the most peaceful airy residential area of the Sofia – Boyana, just steps away from the Boyana Church, National History Museum, Best Western Premier Thracia Hotel 10 min. from the city center and 20 min. drive from the Sofia International Airport. 14 luxury rooms and 2 elegant suites with 6, Stara Planina Str. Jacuzzi, splendid city or mountain view.Restaurant, phone +359 2 915 15 00 BBQ Garden, Lobby Bar, Sport Club – fitness, sauna, cell +359 885 650 665 massages, free outdoor parking lot, full internet access, 6, Stara Planinawww.s Str.ofiacityhotel.co m h 11 map E2 Business Hall. & 02 915rese 15rv 00ations@sofiacit yhotel.com Public transport: fax: 02 986 20 00 Tm-20,22, [email protected] your stay ! Metro Central Park Hotel www.sofiacityhotel.com Room rates: EURO 69-169 First-class hotel right in the city centre, close to 106, Vitosha Blvd. h 14 map B5 the Sofia Opera House. 61 air-conditioned rooms & 02 805 81 81 Public transport: and suites, Internet access, lobby bar, restau- fax: 02 805 87 8 Metro rant, 2 conference rooms, currency exchange Reservations: & 02 805 88 88 office, sauna, massage center, hair-dresser, e-mail: [email protected] laundry, dry-cleaning and summer garden. www.centralparkhotel.bg Room rates: EURO 150-220 A new hotel in the heart of the city, close at hand to the National Palace of Culture and the finest shopping area of Sofia. 74 elegantly appointed rooms (8 single, 60 double/twin, 6 DeLuxe) with free high speed internet access. 3 Panorama suites with splendid view on Vitosha mountain and the central city square. 2 non-smoking floors available. 2 conference halls with 40 and 70 seats, Business centre, Restaurant, Lobby bar. 14, Shipka Str. h 12 map F3 & + 359 2 9489 489 Public transport: Fax: + 359 2 9489490 Metro, B - 306, 280 cell: +359 886 399 504 Tb - 2, 5 e-mail: [email protected] www.crystalpalace-sofia.com Single Rooms - 53, Junior Suites - 3, Suites - 10 Room rates: EURO 110 - 250 27, Vasil Levski Blvd. h 17 map C5 Crystal Palace is one of the best 4-star hotels in & 02 930 52 00 Public transport: Sofia because of its great architecture and city fax: 02 930 53 00 B-94, Tb-9,1, 2, 5, 8 center location. In close proximity to all important [email protected] GPS: N 42.696895, venues in Sofia, the Crystal Palace Boutique Hotel www.hotel-downtown.net E 23.319111 offers its guests elegantly furnished rooms, relax- offers a perfect setting for business and leisure. ing Wellness and SPA center, gourmet restaurant 59 air-conditioned, non-smoking guest and convenient business halls. rooms, including 12 suites, all being a harmo- 30 Accommodation

nious blend of the cozy comfort of a home and luxurious amenities of a hotel. Free Internet; Meeting facilities up to 60 persons; Restaurant and lobby bar; Fitness, sauna, solar- ium and massage for maximum guest comfort.

76B, James Bouchier Bvld. h 17 map D3 & +359 2 806 55 55 Public transport: 149, Tsarigradsko Shose Blvd. h 10 map back cell: 0878 44 11 84 Metro & 02 817 81 00 Public transport: fax: +359 2 806 55 00 fax: 02 974 30 90 Bus 114, 1, 6, Metro Station e-mail: [email protected] e-mail: [email protected] www.hillhotel-sofia.com www.hotelexposofia.com Single rooms - 14, Double rooms - 34 Room Rates: EUR 69 – 109 Room rates: EURO 100 -120 BB Take advantage and enjoy the central location Hill Hotel is a modern 4-star business hotel of the Best Western Hotel Expo in the heart of the business area of the Bulgarian capital and located near the city center and just 100 meters just within 7 minute drive from Airport Sofia. away from the closest subway station. It is close A step away from Sofia’s premier International to the city’s commercial and financial areas and Exhibition and Congress center, the 4 star Best has easy access to the airport and Central Railway Western Hotel Expo features 99 rooms, flexible station. Hill Hotels offers its guests a business meeting rooms, a state-of-art Business Lounge center, large conference hall as well as fitness and elegant bar and dining options as well as and SPA center. lush open-air summer garden. Complimentary shuttle service to and from Sofia International Airport, just within 7 minute drive. Enjoy the central city landmarks by taking the Metro which is situated just front of the hotel. Within 2 minute car ride can easily reach the city concert & sport venue Arena Armeec Hall, several shop- ping malls and main countryside highways.

56, Cherni Vrah Blvd. h 28 map back & 02 961 79 30 Public Transport: fax: 02 961 79 33 Metro; Tm – 10 B - 88, 120 LEGENDS hotel is situated in Lozenets district, 20, Knyaginya Maria Luiza Blvd. h 16 map C2 1.5 km away from the city center, while the clos- & 02 980 78 95 Public transport: est metro station is 300 m away. The hotel offers fax: 02 980 78 94 Tm-20, 22; Metro a unique combination of high-quality service and e-mail: [email protected] comfort. LEGENDS hotel features 43 double room rates: from EURO 55-70 rooms & single rooms and 4 apartments. The Surrounded by history and culture, this center spacious and bright rooms have large and cozy city hotel exceeds the expectations of both beds, mini-bar, TV set with satellite programs, business and leisure travelers. Located in the telephone, WIFI internet, air-condition with indi- heart of downtown Sofia, Gloria Palace Hotel is vidual adjustment, bathroom with a bath-tube, 3 connected to the vibrant shopping, sports and pairs of blackout drapes, 8 rooms have balconies. attractions of the Bulgarian capital. The hotel is The restaurant, the lobby bar and the two confer- only steps away from the main administrative, ence halls are all with WIFI internet. The restau- financial and commercial sites of the capital. rant is with capacity up to 120 people - your place The hotel features 30 rooms.All rooms have for official lunch or dinner, wedding celebrations air condition with individually controlled and other events. The conference halls are with temperature,satellite tv and wi-fi connection. Conference facilities seating from 5 to 70, maximum capacity up to 100 people, with natural private parking. daylight, coffee breaks space, balcony. Accommodation 31

29, Knyaginya Maria Luiza Blvd. h 18 map C2 115N Tsarigradsko Shosse Blvd. h 20 map back & 02 980 55 77 Public transport: & /Fax +359 290 43 000 Public transport: fax: 02 980 33 55 Metro; Tm-20,22 www.novotel.com/8468 Metro; B-84, 204, 604 e-mail: [email protected] e-mail: [email protected] www.marialuisa-bg.com Novotel Sofia is ideally located in one of the Room rates: EURO 75-135 most important business districts of Sofia and is only 10 min from the historical city center and The Maria Luisa hotel occupies an exquisite the airport. This new 4-star hotel is adjacent to building dating back to the turn of the last , one of Sofia’s biggest shopping and century and considered one of the national entertainment centers. Either you come for busi- cultural monuments. It is situated in the very ness, for a meeting or with your family, you will heart of Sofia in close proximity to significant be fascinated by the modern atmosphere and business and administrative centers, Ministries functionality of its design. WIFI is free of charge and Central shop markets. 15 rooms, 5 suites, in all hotel spaces. Take advantage of the NOVO restaurant, lobby bar, business centre, parking. 2 Lounge Bar & Restaurant or relax in Balance fit- All rooms are beautifully appointed, with luxury ness where massages are also available. Parking in-suite bathrooms, cable TV, audio equipment, is free for all hotel guests. direct telephone connection, internet access.

1A, Prof. Hristo Vakarelski. Str. h 21 map back & +359 2 963 31 30 [email protected] www.OlivesHotel.com 64, Tsarigradsko shose Blvd. h 19 map back & +359 2 42 47 900 Public transport: Olives City Hotel is the newest four star busi- fax: +359 2 875 70 00 Metro, B76, 84, 213 ness Hotel in Sofia, situated in the most dynami- cally developing area of the capital. The Hotel E: [email protected] offers services aimed especially at business trav- www.metropolitanhotelsofia.com elers – hotel accommodation, organizing and Room rates: EURO 108-176 conducting conferences, business and private Rooms: Single - 31, Double - 141, Suites - 11, events, relaxing services and recreation. Corner Studios - 16, Panorama apartments - 2 You will recognize the Hotel by the mod- ern business style, 24 hour professional Hotel Stylish urban hotel with unconventional design services, restaurant with evergreen garden and welcomes you at the eastern gate of the capital friendly atmosphere combined with exquisite city – 3 km away from Sofia Airport, 4 km Mediterranean cuisine satisfying every culinary from Business Park Sofia and within a walking whim, Lobby bar, 5 meeting rooms. Olive`Spa distance from the International Expo Centre (IEC) Center, offering relaxing and sport services, is the and The Mall shopping centre. Discreet and place where our guests can relax in the hands of thoughtful service, feel-at-home sensation and our professional masseur. varied entertainment make your stay a memo- Olives City Hotel team is available at any time to provide the correct service and to meet all guests’ rable experience. requirements. 32 Accommodation

Room rates: EURO 20 (Suites: EURO 70) 14 rooms and 3 suites. The Amphora fam- ily hotel offers you the opportunity to combine your business engagements in the Bulgarian capital with a nice rest on the slopes of the Vitosha mountain. The hotel is situated on the main road from Sofia to the towns of Knyazhevo and Vladaya and is only 5 min. on foot from the public transportation. At the hotel a guarded parking lot is also available.

5, Knyaz Al. Dondukov Blvd. h 24 map D3 & 02 402 71 00, 02 402 71 12 Public transport: fax: 02 402 71 09 Tm-20, 22 www.artehotelbg.com Room rates: Euro 110-130 Boyana District, 5, Sborishte Square Just around the corner of the Presidency and the &/fax: 02 959 05 29 h 35 map back Ministry Council buildings. The guests live together www.villa-boyana.com Public transport: with Bulgarian art & world’s classical music mas- e-mail: [email protected] B-107, 64 terpieces. The chamber-size restaurant with 50 Room rates: EURO 40-50 seats provides sophisticated Italian food and artistic Located in the middle of Boyana village, a few atmosphere. minutes from “National History Museum”, a few meters away from the world famous “Boyana Church” and only ten minutes by car from the downtown of Sofia. Comfortable well-appointed bedrooms. Special welcomes by request.

108, Besarabia Str. h 25 map back & 02 945 50 80 Public transport: fax: 02 945 59 55 Tb-1 cell: +359 899 99 27 71, +359 899 99 27 37 e-mail: [email protected] www.hotel-astra.bg The complex is located in a tranquil but a commu- nicative area, in close proximity to Vladimir Vazov Blvd. and the main roads to Burgas and Varna. The complex has a modern equipped conference Ibis Sofia Airport Hotel hall with capacity of 50 people, designed for the organization of conferences and special events. Astra Hotel offers to its guests 50 rooms 132, Mimi Balkanska Str. h 46 map back Room rates: EURO 55-90. The price includes & +35929444488 Public Transport: breakfast, VAT, insurance and tourist fee. The fax:+35929444488 Bus 84 restaurant is the preferred setting for holding wed- e-mail: [email protected] dings, banquets, business cocktail-parties, private www.ibis.com celebrations and parties. Room rates: EURO 55-65 The brand new Ibis Hotel is ideally located just 500 m from Sofia Airport Center and 2 to 5 min- utes driving to Megapark, European Trade Center, Interexpo Center and Arena Armeets hall. It is easily accessible by public transport - 1 minute walking distance to a bus and 1,6 km to metro station. With 84 standard Ibis rooms, a summer 409, Tsar Boris III Blvd. h 26 map back garden restaurant and 4 meeting rooms, free WiFi, Knyazhevo District Public transport: business corner and office by day services, Ibis & 02 957 15 B-58, 59 Hotel is perfect for business trips and a smart cell: 0888 81 89 38, www.hotelamfora.dir.bg choice for weekend breaks. Accommodation 33

16, Neofit Rilski Str. h 30 map B4 & 02 952 30 58, 02 953 01 10 Public transport: fax: 02 951 60 91 Tb-1, 2, 5, 8 & 02 851 19 15 – restaurant e-mail: [email protected] Meg-Lozenetz Room rates: EURO 35-105 16 Suites, 3 Single and 4 Double rooms. All rooms offer free of charge Internet accesses, cable T.V., direct telephone line, kitchenette (coffee, tea making facilities), room service, air-conditioning, own heating. BBQ restaurant-garden with authentic 84, Krum Popov Str. h 29 map C7 bulgarian cuisine. & 02 965 19 70 Public transport: & 02 963 35 23 Tm-6,9; B-94 Cell: 0889 464 300 Metro /Europian Union/ Restaurant Azaar Spanish Cuisine - 0888 020 020 e-mail: [email protected] www.meg-lozenetz.com Room rates: EURO 75-150 It is in the close proximity to the National Palace of Slavyanska Beseda Hotel Culture and to the shopping area of the “Vitosha” boulevard, just 15 minutes by car from Sofia Airport. The hotel is near Metro Station “Europian 3, Slavyanska Str. h 33 map D4 Union”. The hotel has 17 luxury furnished double & 02 935 98 35, 02 935 98 33 Public transport: fax: +359 2 935 98 32, 981 25 23 Tb-9, Tm-12,18 and triple rooms. Rooms offer internet connec- cell: +359 885 02 02 21 Bus-84, 284 tion, AC, mini bar, IDD phone, TV, own heating, e-mail: [email protected] Metro room service. Restaurant, spanish cuisine with www.slavyanska.com cosy garden, newly opened lobby bar with special Slavyanska Beseda Hotel offers a fantastic location and menu, parking. an ideal accommodation for both business and leisure travelers looking for budget and affordable lodging but who will not sacrifice balanced quality and fair service. Nested in the heart of the financial, business and government city quarters. Comfortable and spacious rooms. All rooms have street view and some balcony. 92 rooms distributed in 5 floors and serviced by one elevator. Some rooms have experienced significant upgrades and renovations but, in all cases, rooms are in proper and correct working condition.

Hotel Restaurant Montecito Phone: +359 2 973 6246 h 32 map back Cell: +359 88 800 4820 Public Transport: [email protected] B 5, 6, 7 www.hotelmontecito.bg 29, Hristo Belchev Str. h 34 map C4 Hotel Montecito is situated on the main bou- & + 359 2 4811400 Public transport: levard, leading to the city center, close to fax: + 359 2 4811401 Tb-1, 2, Sofia Airport, Sofia Business Center and 5, 8, 9 International Expo Center. The hotel features 101 [email protected] well-appointed guestrooms, main restaurant, www.sofiaplacehotel.com resembling a small palace, cozy summer gar- Room rates: EURO 50 – 90 den, outdoor swimming pool and large parking. Located in the heart of the city, near the major Montecito Hall is the newest value in Sofia, luxury business and shopping centres as well as cultural designed in style of The Palace of Versailles, monuments Sofia Place Hotel offers 20 modern perfect for special events. Montecito kids is huge designed rooms equipped with telephone, mini bar, and attractive party center, offers professional air-condition, Wi Fi, cable TV and central heating. animation and services. But our best quality is the staff! Personal attention to every guest is our “speciality”! 34 Accommodation

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

Park Hotel Moskva

25, Nezabravka Str. h 46 map H8 & +3592 971 10 24 Public transport: e-mail: [email protected] Metro Room rates: EURO 24 - 61 Park hotel Moskva is situated in the most beautiful and green part of Sofia - the Borisova garden. An ideal 12, Dragovitsa Str. h 39 map back location and easy access to all modes of transport. The hotel offers 120 rooms and 40 new suites with & 02 944 89 52 Public transport: panoramic views, 2 restaurants, a summer and a winter fax: 02 943 34 71 B-11,305,413,72 garden, 7 conference halls up to 600 seats, parking e-mail: [email protected] B- 404;Tm-20,22 and alot more. www.madridbg.com Cosy and quiet family hotel, situated close to the city center and Poduyane railway station. 14 rooms (2 single, 10 double, 2 double deluxe) and a suite. Equipped with telephone, air-conditioning, cable TV, central heating, free internet access.

4, Verila Str. h 37 map B5 Hostels & 02 952 08 30 Public transport: &/fax: 02 951 57 60 Tm-6; Tb-1, 2, 5, 8, 9 Be My Guest Hostel cell: 0886 51 35 82 13, Ivan Vazov Str. h 41 map D4 e-mail: [email protected] & 02 989 50 92 Public transport: www.hotelthehouse.com fax: 02 989 00 92 Tb-9, 1, 2, 5, 8 Rooms rates: EURO 31-43 cell: 0889 979 749 Tm-12, 18 Located in the very heart of Sofia next to the e-mail: [email protected] www.bemyguesthostel.com National Palace of Culture. All rooms are designed Room rates: EURO 10-15 according to European standards - air-condition- Shared and private rooms ensuite. Located just behind ing, separate bath-room, cable TV, Wi-Fi, refrig- the “Ivan Vazov“National Theater. Easily accessible erator.Equipped with telephone, air-conditioning, from the airport by bus number 84 or taxi, and from cable TV, central heating, free internet access. central bus and railway station by tram number 18 and rooms, wireless internet, cable TV, air-conditioning. 12. If you are looking for simple, comfortable and clean accommodation, then this hostel is the place for you. Apartment Rentals Apartment House Bulgaria 16, Nevestina skala Str. h 43 map back & + 359 2 8184141 Public Transport: easyHotel Sofia - LOW COST cell:+ 359 889 687666 Tm 7, Bus 204 fax:+ 359 2 8184243 e-mail: [email protected] 108, Aldomirovska Str. h 38 map back www.fpihotels.com /Todor Alexandrov Blvd./ Public transport: Suites: 17 & 02 920 16 54 Metro, Tm 3, 8,10 Suite Rates EURO 85 - 160 fax: 02 822 82 15 These serviced apartments for long or short - term rent e-mail: [email protected] are located in Sofia’s Borovo district, with easy access www.easyhotel-sofia.bg www.easyhotel.com to the city’s main places of interest. The apartments Room rates: EURO 19 - 34 EUR are fully furnished and equipped with all you need to easyHotel Sofia is part of the British hotel chain easyHo- feel at home, including a kitchenette. They are serviced tel.co, which is unique for offering modern facilities and (cleaned and maintained) as you wish. Apartment House impeccable service at unusually low rates. Situated on Bulgaria is part of the Bulgaria Residential Complex, the corner of Aldomirovska Street and the main Todor which includes a 7000 sq.m garden, Inergy Fitness & Alexandrov Boulevard, the brand new hotel is on just 5 minutes walk from the beating heart of central Sofia. All SPA Center and a restaurant/bistro. Accommodation 35

ments you will find fully equipped kitchens for easy preparation of a quick breakfast or a sophisticated family dinner. For a long term stay the guests can take advantage of using washing machine and dishwasher for additional convenience. Free for you we provide wi-fi, 180 digital TV channels, bl. 531, Anna Ahmatova Str., h 44 map back city telephone line and flavoured coffee. We are proud Mladost 1A Distr. Public transport: to offer you a Welcome pack with traditional Bulgarian fax /& +359 2 974 41 60 Metro food and drinks! cell: +359 2 887 70 55 30 B-213,88,76, 305 e-mail: [email protected] 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: double rooms and apartments in a new building, with guaranteed comfort and coziness – situated in the south-east part of Sofia, Mladost 1A, 5,5 km. from the Sofia airport.

APARTMENT HOUSE SOFIA Anyone can do it! 4, Golo Bardo Str. h 42 map B9 Lozenets Distr. Public transport: Every Saturday, at top places, in top cities: & 02 960 28 88 Metro; Tm-9 Free, organized running for everyone! fax: 02 960 28 37 The pleasure - to run for pleasure! e-mail: [email protected] Rates: EURO 100-200 Located in the fashionable neighborhood of Lozenets, the complex is only 2 km away from the ideal center of Sofia. Furnishing – luxury category, Internet access, air-conditioning, cable TV with 60 programs, non stop security of the building, restaurant (catering), medical services (by order) Brand new, located in the city center – close to the banks and administrative buildings of the public institutions. It Brand new, located in the city center – close to the banks and administrative build- ings of the public institutions. It offers 14 apatments, all equipped with kitchens, direct telephone, Internet access, laundry, dry-cleaning, cable TV, air-condition- ing, security guaranteed. Credit cards accepted.

Vitosha Apartments - self-catering serviced apart- ments on and nearby Vitosha Blvd.

35, Tsar Asen Str. (entrance from Uzundzovska Str.) оffice: +359 2 987 03 88 Public transport: mobile: +359 897 845 055 metro, Tb 1,2,5,8,9 e-mail: [email protected] facebook.com/VitoshaApartments www.vitosha-apartments.com Airport Pick up service Room rates: EURO 45 - 90 per night The 15th apartments are specially selected to be in new and well maintained buildings adjacent to “Vitosha” Blvd. Located in the top city centre, close at hand to the National Palace of Culture and the 5kmrun.bg finest shopping area of Sofia. Аll apartments are non-smoking. Smokers can enjoy our balconies with beautiful city and mountain view. In the apart- cityinfoguides.com CITYINFOGUIDES.com 36 bars & restaurants Bulgarian restaurant Chevermeto – whatever is at heart Bulgarian restaurant “Chevermeto” is the first authentic, real Bulgarian restaurant in Sofia established in 1996. With its opening the restaurant has a tradition every night the rich musical program to be attended by a beautiful folklore composition, the unique Bulgarian folklore and popular songs. The great Valya Balkanska, the unforgettable Stefka Sabotinova, Nadka Karadzhova and Kostadin Gugov have performed at the restaurant. For years has been singing the national singer Binka Dobreva from the Mystery of Bulgarian Voices. The actress and singer Stefka Berova has also been present in the restaurant’s repertoire for a long time. Tanya Skechelieva from the “Filip Kutev” Ensemble, which won the Pirin Folk Fest 2013, Margarita Popova, Sonya Ivanova and Ilian Iliev continue to sing at the restaurant every evening. The unique Ensemble “Gotse Delchev” – Sofia performs its beautiful spectacle including national dances from all regions of the country every night. In our capital only the Bulgarian restaurant “Chevermeto” maintains every evening its unique program for the past 20 years. Bulgarian restaurant “Chevermeto” combines authentic atmosphere, dishes from old recipes and a folklore spectacle. An atmosphere offering real Bulgarian comfort and returning us back in time to roots and traditions. For special occasions as wedding celebrations, jubilee events and others the restaurant offers authentic customs. Meeting the guests with bagpipes, bread with honey and salt, rituals left as traditions from our ancestors during the ages. We will take you to a Bulgarian fairytale as an old as legend. And maybe that’s the evening you want to have? This can come true only at our Bulgarian restaurant “Chevermeto”. NDK - Prono, 1, Bulgaria Blvd., phone: +359 2 9 630 308, cell: +359 885 630 308 Every day from 12.00 to 00.00, www.chevermeto-bg.com bars & restaurants 37

NDKNDK - P -rono Prono, 1,, 1,Bulgaria Bulgaria Blvd., Blvd., phone: phone: +359 +359 2 29 9630 630 308, 308, cell: cell: +359 +359 885885 630630 308308 EveryEvery day day from from 12.00 12.00 to to 00.00, 00.00, www.chevermeto-bg.com www.chevermeto-bg.com 38 bars & 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 Bulgarian

NDK - Prono ss 1, Bulgaria Blvd. (map B6) Open every day: 12.00 - 00.00 Club of Architect ss & +359 2 9 630 308 11, Krakra Str. (map F4) cell: +359 885 630 308 e-mail: [email protected] Open: 12.00-24.00 www.chevermeto-bg.com cell: 0888 880 979 Restaurant Chevermeto combines authentic atmo- Offers great variety of European cuisine: interest sphere, dishes prepared according to old receipts salad, dishes, desserts & rich list of wine. and a folklore show. Every evening a whole lamb is roasted on fire as Summer & winter garden: 110 seats “cheverme”, where the name of the restaurant Credit cards: accepted comes from. If you want to try all these take your friends and bring them to Chevermeto, the way it is done by ministers, presidents, royalties and celebrities.

Pod Lipite ss Smuggler’s Diner s /Under the Linden-Trees/ 29B, Hristo Belchev Str. (map C4) Lozenets Distr. (map E7) For reservations: 0877 844 531 1, Elin Pelin Str. Real American Diner in the heart of Sofia & 02 866 50 53; 02 866 50 59 Burgers / BBQ / Milkshakes / Breakfast Menu Open: 12.00-01.00 www.podlipitebg.com Should you wish to combine an all-in-one tasting Beerhouse of typical Bulgarian dishes and sensing the artistic Die alte Lampe ss spirit of Old Sofia, book a table at this place. An 2, Kotel Str. (map A8) authentic folklore & 02 964 03 86, cell: 0885 63 53 23 programme every evening. Open: 11.00-24.00 www.fenerite.com Authentic Bavarian cuisine and German draft beer. All credit cards accepted. Restaurant Vodenitzata s Niky Beerhouse ss 16, Neofit Rilski Str. (map B4) Dragalevtsi District (map back) & 02 967 10 58, fax: 02 967 50 07 & 02 851 19 15 Open: 12.00-24.00 open: 12.00-24.00 www.vodenitzata.com A real green paradise in the center of Sofia. A One of the top ranked restaurants due to its magnifi- great variety of Bulgarian cuisine, wines and draft cent scenery. During the winter months 2 fireplaces beers. Perfect place for any occasion. illuminate the stone walls. The impression of the aurant.bulgary.bg programme show can be multiplied by tasting tradi- Open: 12.00-24.00 tional Bulgarian specialities and splash them with the excellent rakia and wine. Reservations by all means. bars & restaurants 39

Italian Indian / Nepal

Gurkha ss Lozenets Distr. CICCIONE PANINI BAR € 56, Tsvetna Gradina Str. (map B8) 6, Hristo Belchev Str. & 02 865 02 16 &+359 882 503040 cell 0884 939 100 Email: [email protected] Free WiFi Open: Every day 11:00-24:00 Мonday-Fraiday 08:00am - 00:00 pm www.gurkhabg.com Satrday-Sunday 10:00 am - 00:00 pm Indian and Nepali cuisine. Dishes from all over Asia. www.ciccione.bg Nice and cozy place. Easy to find, 2 minutes from NDK, with a range of hotels around - Marinella, Hilton, Hemus, Lozenets, Apartment House Lozenets, CICCIONE PANINI BAR € California, 7 Hills, Greenville... Parking. Wi-Fi zone. Mladost 4 District, Business Park Sofia, Building 10 Delivery 11.30-22.00 &+359 885 304020 Email: [email protected] Free WiFi Indian Мonday-Fraiday 08:00am - 00:00 pm Satrday-Sunday 10:00 am - 00:00 pm www.ciccione.bg

CICCIONE PANINI BAR € 9, Gen.Joseph Gurko Str. Spice House s &+359 882 501599 3 Han Asparuh Str. (map B4) Email: [email protected] Free WiFi Cell: +359 876 145372 Мonday-Fraiday 08:00am - 00:00 pm [email protected]; www.spicehouse.bg Satrday-Sunday 10:00 am - 00:00 pm Open: 12.00 - 22.30 www.ciccione.bg If you want to go on an adventure for your senses the Indian restaurant “Spice House” is the right place for Modern concept of dining and social life. Combining you. Here you will be passionate about flavor! Prepared panini bar shop with tables, in which you can find with the finest quality spices imported from the far-east a variety of Italian sausages, cheeses and wines to as well as handpicked by the Indian chef Parminder take home or enjoy them on the spot in our cozy from the best locally produced vegetables and meats all restaurants. dishes are authentic Indian cuisine with excellent taste. Reservation required for dinner. International

81, Tzar Asen Str. ss La Vitta e Bella ss Cell: +359 88 555 00 10 Open: Mon-Fri: 10.00-24.00 6, Stara Planina Str. (map E2, Best Western Plus Sat-Sun: 12.00 - 24.00 City Hotel Sofia) www.theclock.bg & 02 989 70 07 facebook.com/TheClockBarFood Open: 12.00 - 23.00 The Clock Bar & Food is a really desired place La Vita è Bella is the restaurant of the capital Best for organizing themed celebrations and events. The Western Plus City Hotel. The interior is in the spirit location is right downtown of the capital, the warm of radiant, relaxed and cozy Italian atmosphere and coziness of brick walls and the aroma of raw wood in the warm season the garden outside is like a supplement the balanced menu. Here we aim to offer small Italian city oasis in old Sofia. Great food, great freshness, taste and atmosphere which to bring a pos- wines and hearty welcoming – this is what clients itive mood and culinary satisfaction to all our guests. here receive. 40 bars & restaurants

The New Fox&Hound ss prepared with the best products for the season, the perfect service and the pleasant atmosphere and 34, Angel Kanchev Str., music are the essence of Petru’s – one experience for (mapC5) all senses. Here they create history… Cell: +359 876 331 419 The restaurant offers six halls for adults including & +359 980 74 27 music hall, Japanese room, live cooking show area Open: 10.00 - 24.00 and VIP room, winter/summer garden also a play- Stepping through the doors ground for children on the theme Angry Birds and own of the Fox & Hound is parking lot for visitors. like traveling back in time to foggy old Albion. This lively and friendly British pub serves excellent food and an impressive selection of drinks.

Restaurant Tabiet €€ 76 “James Bourchier” Blvd. & 0888 300 304 Email: [email protected] Free WiFi The House ss Мonday-Sunday 12:00pm - 00:00 pm 4, Verila Str. (map B5) www.tabiet.com & 02 952 08 30, 02 951 57 60 TABIET is among the few classic restaurants with a cell: 0888 800 376 garden in Sofia. For the years of its existence and thanks Open: 12.00-24.00 to its development the restaurant upholds its position as one of the favorite places of all residents and guests of the No matter which of the main dining areas you sit capital. TABIET has two halls indoor. The first one is in old in at this friendly and comfy house, you’ll receive Italian style “Rustic” with 80 seats. The soft lightening and amiable service and variety of tasty treats. fireplace here offer a cozy family atmosphere. The other hall is in contemporary style with 75 seats, where you find a mixture between Modernism and Mediterranean elements with little “Art Deco” in the design. Pizza Lozenets Distr. 38 a, Cherni Vrah Blvd. Restaurant Lebed 02 868 83 78 83, Samokovsko Shose Str. (map back) ss 0888 297 457 & 02 992 11 11 3, Verila Str. Open: 12.00-24.00 / Vitosha Blvd. opposite NDK/ Situated on the very shore of the Pancharevo lake. 02 988 82 58 2 halls and splendid garden, whose Mediterranean 0888 297 454 style and natural beauty make the atmosphere really romantic. Seafood delights, as well as a rich 3, Vasil Levski Blvd. collection of selected beverage. 02 988 20 24 0888 297 454 49 B, Bulgaria Blvd. 22, Yerosalim Blvd. Mladost District Home delivery: 48, Sveti Naum Blvd. ss 0700 44 777 Cell: +359 876 876 051 www.petrus.bg Only by us pizzas from [email protected] original Italian receipes. Open: 11:00 - 23:30 The visit at Chef Petar Yankov’s place is like going six nights in a row in a completely different restaurant. The diversity in the interior will take you on a culinary journey with many surprises. The excellent cuisine bars & restaurants 41 42 NIGHT LIFE NIGHT LIFE 43 44 NIGHT LIFE bARS & cLUBS Casinos

Casino Sofia 4, Narodno Sabranie Square (Radisson Hotel BLU) cell. 0888 77 66 55 Club Stroeja 10, Lege Str. Reservations: 0885 974666 facebook.com/stroeja Open: Monday - Sunday 16:00 - 3:00 Princess Sofia If you don’t visit “Stroeja” while you’re in Sofia, 131, Kn. Maria Luiza Blvd. (map C0) (Sofia Ramada Hotel), it’s like going to the Grand Canyon blind folded. & 02 933 88 88 Well known for its colorful and catchy atmosphere, the place has evolved as the headquarters of the alternative and social active people. It comes to no surprise that “Stroeja” is one of the most cherished and visited clubs in the capital. Through its 18 year long history, the bar has kept its music taste swell and rock solid, don’t miss a chance to check it out. Viva Casino Sofia Hotel Balkan (map C3) & 02 981 57 47, 02 986 35 01, cell: 0893 729 190 www.groupviva.com

Erotic barS Club Terminal 1 1, Angel Kanchev Str. Reservations: 0889 219001 facebook.com/clubterminal1 Open: Thursday - Saturday 21:00 - 6:00 4, Vitosha Blvd. (map C3) You won’t make a mistake if you go straight & +359 2 981 36 63, +359 2 981 07 70 from the airport’s Terminal 1 or 2 to Music Club www.FetishSofia.com “Terminal 1”. There you can meet a variety of people who represent the modern subculture of our Open every day: 9 PM - 4 AM society. You can experience music in all its forms. Friday and Saturday 9 PM - 5 PM From acoustic nights to pure rock ’n’ roll sound The only and unique FETISH club in Sofia. through concerts of world-wide acclaimed artists, Every night you can enjoy the company of 20 to the subby or dance floor electronic music. Do highly attractive and hottest girls in most pleasant yourself a favor and next time you visit Sofia – defi- atmosphere. nitely check this place out…’cause there is always Do not hesitate and call us - we promise to bring another way out! all your fantasies to life! NIGHT LIFE 45

Casinos

Erotic bars

ES4,CORT Vitosha SEBlvd.R V IC ES (map C3) Enigma& +359 agency 2 981 36 63, +359 2 981 07 70 www.FetishStripClub.com 24, Vrabcha Str. &Open 02 944every 50 day: 70 9PM - 4AM cell:The 0898 only 845and 571,unique 0887 FETISH 800 club184 in Sofia. Every night you can enjoy the company of 20 Highthighly - attractive CLASS and - Girls hottest girls in most pleasant cell:atmosphere. 0887 670 366, 0876 398 552 www.hight-class-girls.comDo not hesitate and call us - we promise to bring all your fantasies to life! 46 CULTURE

Theatre, dance and live music in an original performance about freedom and the limits for it 10th edition of WORLD THEATRE IN SOFIA 2016 AND THE SALOON OF ARTS present “CORRECTION” on JUNE 10th at 7 p.m. at Theatre Azaryan, National Palace of Culture

“Correction” is a surprising and unusual performance created by one of the best contemporary Czech theatre makers – Jiří Havelka, together with the dancers and choreographers from VerTeDance Company and the music band Clarinet Factory. Imagine a world where you can’t progress despite your best efforts to push forward. “Correction” proposes an image of it by putting unusual challenges and limits for the dancers. They are employed creatively and the result is a beautifully poignant piece about the lack of freedom, about reclusion and our power to make decisions. The bodies follow their reflexes; they slant and curvature pushing off, tipping and falling. Every imbalance is corrected and brought back to equilibrium. With theatrics, choreographic moments and subtle humor, the performance deals with the contradictory notions of freedom. Do we lose something, when we are free, and when does lack of freedom result in seeming relief and even conformity? “Correction” received the award of the Czech critics for Dance Piece of the Year, 2014. Many invitations to prestigious national and international theatre and dance festivals followed. It was distinguished with the Herald Angels Award in Edinburg, with the BE Audience Award 2015 and Mess Festival Award 2015 at BE Festival in Birmingham, and it was nominated for the Total Theatre Award 2015 at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

Directed by Jiří Havelka Choreography and dance Veronika Knytlová, Marta Trpišovská ,Tereza Ondrová, Martina Hajdyla Lacová, Helena Arenbergerová, Karolína Hejnová, Robo Nižník, Jaro Ondruš, Rado Piovarči, Petr Opavský, Michael Vodenka Live music Clarinet Factory Light Design Katarína Ďuricová Costume and Scene Design Dáda Němeček Produced by VerTeDance o.s., dance WATCH – Karolína Hejnová Supported by City of Prague, Ministry of Culture of the Czech Republic, Foundation Život umělce, METROSTAV a.s., Tanec Praha NGO / Ponec - The Dance Venue, Čtyřidny o.s. and ALT@RT o.s. The guest-performance is supported by the Czech Center – Sofia CULTURE 47

photos by Radek Holes 48 CULTURE Art Shop

4, Vitosha Blvd., Sofia Mon.-Sun.: 10.30-20.30 Phone: +359 879 947022 www.balkansko-shops.bg Email: [email protected] THE NATIONAL GALLERY www.facebook.com/balkansko located in the very heart of Sofia St. Alexander Nevsky Square, With lots of devotion and love we collect the best of 1, 19, February str. Bulgarian handicrafts! You will find here Bulgarian & + 359 2 980 00 93; + 359 2 980 72 62 traditional souvenirs and cosmetics, silver filigree, [email protected]; [email protected] music, paintings, icons, sweets and beverages. www.nationalartgallery.org Welcome to Balkansko – Tradition & Spirit! www.foreignartmuseum.bg Open: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Closed on Mondays Representative exposition of Bulgarian and Foreign art – paintings and sculptures. Widely presented is the Bulgarian art from the period of the national Revival till the end of the XX century. It is uniquely harmonized with the ancient and contemporary art from different parts of the world – Asia, Africa, Europe and Latin America.

Galleries

PENTIMENTO GALLERY 8, William Gladstone Str. cell: +359 886 757 250 [email protected] Tue – Sun – 16.00 – 19.00 Pentimento Gallery opened its doors on November 7th, 2014. Classica Gallery 32, Yuriy Venelin Str. (map E5) & 02 988 24 72 [email protected] www.classica.art.bg Mon –Sun: 10:00 – 13:00 and 17:00 – 20:00

3, Lege Str. (map C3) 90/B, Lozengrad Str. / St. Stambolov Str.(map C1) 100, Cherni Vrah Blvd. - , Floor 1 & 088 4444 338 cell: 0894 341 724 Mon – Fri: 11.00 – 19.00 www.artgalleryeurope.eu Sat. 11.00 – 18.00 [email protected] www. gallery-serdica.com Mon – Sat: 11.00 - 19.00 [email protected] CULTURE 49

Palette

SERDICA Gallery Serdica Gallery presents solo exhibition “World” - paintings by Nadya Stancheva, between 2nd to 30th June.

EUROPE Gallery Violeta Radkova Solo exhibition, paintings “Quiet...”, till 30th June. Exhibition by the artists: Bozhidar & Elena Hadjistoyanovi, Nikolay Yanakiev, Nikolay Angelov - Gary Tsvetan Lazarov, Alexander Dimitrov and others.

Violeta Radkova Bozhidar Hadzhistoianov

Pentimento Gallery From 3th of June to 20th of June - “The portraits” by Pancho Malezanov. From 23th of June to 15th of July - mix media graphics and drawings by Daniela Zekina & Peter Boyadjieff.

Peter Boyadjieff Pancho Malezanov 50 CULTURE

Bulgaria Hall 1, Aksakov Str. www.sofiaphilharmonie.bg 15 June - 7PM 2 June, Thursday, 7PM Violin Concerto in D Major, Op. 35 Conductor: Bulgaria Hall 18 June, Saturday, 7PM Conductor: NAYDEN TODOROV Bulgaria Hall HORIA Soloist: NICOLAS BALDEYROU, Clarinet CHAMBER MUSIC MASTERPIECES BY JOHANNES Claude Debussy – Première Rhapsodie for Clarinet and BRAHMS ANDREESCU Orchestra Soloists: MARIA PRINZ, Piano, MIHAIL ZHIVKOV, Clarinet, Carl Maria von Weber – Clarinet Concerto No. 2 in E-flat soloists from the Sofia Philharmonic and the Svetoslav Soloist: Major Obretenov National Philharmonic Choir Gabriel Faure – Pelleas et Melisande Johannes Brahms – Sonata for Clarinet and Piano SVETLIN Gabriel Faure – Masques et Bergamasques Johannes Brahms –Trio for Clarinet, Cello, and Piano, Op. 114 , Violin Johannes Brahms – Selected songs from Die Schöne ROUSSEV 5 June, Sunday, 7PM Magelone and Liebeslieder National Palace of Culture, Hall One Music by Boléro – A Symphonic Concert 19 June, Sunday, 7PM Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky Conductor: MARTIN PANTELEEV Bulgaria Hall Soloists: PLAMENA MANGOVA, Piano, STANISLAV Conductor: HORIA ANDREESCU Souvenir d’un lieu cher IOUDENITCH, Piano Soloist: STEFAN TARARA, Violin (Memory of a Dear Place) Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky – Romeo and Juliet Fantasy Overture György Ligeti – Concert Românesc Francis Poulenc – Concerto for Two Pianos and Orchestra Sergei Prokofiev – Violin Concerto No. 1 in D Major, Op. 19 Valse Sentimentale Op. 51 in D minor Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky – Swan Lake Suite Serenade Melancolique Op. 26 Ottorino Respighi – Pini di Roma Maurice Ravel - Boléro 21 June, Tuesday, 7PM Valse-Scherzo in C Major, Op. 34 Bulgaria Hall Violin Concerto in D Major, Op. 35 8 June, Saturday, 7PM DIE SCHÖNE MAGELONE Bulgaria Chamber Hall Soloists: MARIA PRINZ, Piano, MATTHIAS GÖRNE, Baritone SOFIA QUARTET Johannes Brahms - Die Schöne Magelone Tickets available at our box-o ce Featuring CHRISTO TANEV, Cello 1000 Soa, 1 Aksakov Street Franz Schubert – String Quintet in C Major, D. 956 22 June, Wednesday, 7PM www.soaphilharmonie.bg Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart – String Quartet No. 15 in D Bulgaria Hall minor, K. 421 Conductor: DAVID GIMÉNEZ Soloists: GLADYS ROSSI, Soprano, VALERI TURMANOV, 9 June, Thursday, 7PM Baritone Bulgaria Hall Leonard Bernstein – Overture and “Glitter And Be Gay” Conductor: DRAGOMIR YOSSIFOV from Candide Soloist: ANTOINE DE GROLÉE, Piano George Gershwin – “I Got Plenty O’Nuttin”, “Summertime” Johannes Brahms – Piano Concerto No. 2 in B-flat Major, and “Bess, You Is My Woman Now” from Porgy and Bess Op. 83 George Gershwin – “By Strauss” Bulgaria Hall Ludwig van Beethoven – Symphony No. 8 in F Major, Op. 93 Dmitri Shostakovich – Waltz from Jazz Suite No. 2 Mitch Leigh – “The Impossible Dream” from Man of La 30 June - 7PM 11 June, Saturday, 7PM Bulgaria Hall Mancha “Have supper, Rado” featuring “Ataman Kudeyar” Frederick Loewe – “I Could Have Danced All Night” from Kazakh atamans meet the beauty of the Bulgarian women My Fair Lady Conductor: SVETOSLAV OBRETENOV NATIONAL PHILHARMONIC CHOIR Maurice Ravel – La Valse KONSTANTIN ILIEVSKY Maurice Ravel – Boléro Conductor: SLAVIL DIMITROV Soloists: Program to include popular Kazakh songs, as well as songs by Chaliapin, Tchaikovsky, Philip Koutev, Petar Lyondev, 24 June, Friday, 7PM TSVETAN NEDYALKOV, Guitar Krassimir Kyurkchiyski, and Ivan Spassov Bulgaria Chamber Hall IVAN KEREKOVSKY, Piano “Renaissance and Baroque” Series MIKHAIL IVANOVICH GLINKA 12 June, Sunday, 7PM MUSIC OF THE SOUTH Bulgaria Hall SVETOSLAV OBRETENOV NATIONAL PHILHARMONIC “ENGLAND, MY ENGLAND” CHOIR Conductor: PATRICK AYRTON Conductor: SLAVIL DIMITROV Henry Purcell – The Fairy Queen Suite Works by Jacob Arcadelt, Carlo Gesualdo, Orlando di Lasso, Benjamin Britten – The Young Person’s Guide to the Claudio Monteverdi, Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina, Felice Orchestra Anerio, and Giovanni Maria Nanino Georg Friedrich Handel – Music for the Royal Fireworks 30 June, Thursday, 7PM Spanish Overture No. 2 15 June, Wednesday, 7PM Bulgaria Hall Summer Night in Madrid Bulgaria Hall Conductor: KONSTANTIN ILIEVSKY Conductor: HORIA ANDREESCU Soloists: TSVETAN NEDYALKOV, Guitar, IVAN JOAQUIN RODRIGO Soloist: SVETLIN ROUSSEV, Violin KEREKOVSKY, Piano Concierto de Aranjuez Music by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky Mikhail Glinka – Spanish Overture No. 2, Summer Night MANUEL DE FALLA Souvenir d’un lieu cher (Memory of a Dear Place) in Madrid Valse Sentimentale, Op. 51 Joaquin Rodrigo – Concierto de Aranjuez Nights in the Gardens of Spain Serenade Melancolique, Op. 26 Manuel de Falla – Nights in the Gardens of Spain NIKOLAI RIMSKY-KORSAKOV Tickets available at our box-o’ce Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov – Capriccio Espagnol, Op. 34 Valse-Scherzo in C Major, Op. 34 Capriccio Espagnol, Op. 34 1000 So•a, 1 Aksakov Street CLASSICAL MUSIC IN CINEMA www.so•aphilharmonie.bg CULTURE 51

Bulgaria Hall 15 June - 7PM Conductor: HORIA ANDREESCU Soloist: SVETLIN ROUSSEV, Violin Music by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky Souvenir d’un lieu cher (Memory of a Dear Place) Valse Sentimentale Op. 51 Serenade Melancolique Op. 26 Valse-Scherzo in C Major, Op. 34 Violin Concerto in D Major, Op. 35

Tickets available at our box-o ce 1000 Soa, 1 Aksakov Street www.soaphilharmonie.bg

Bulgaria Hall 30 June - 7PM

Conductor: KONSTANTIN ILIEVSKY Soloists: TSVETAN NEDYALKOV, Guitar IVAN KEREKOVSKY, Piano MIKHAIL IVANOVICH GLINKA

Spanish Overture No. 2 Summer Night in Madrid JOAQUIN RODRIGO Concierto de Aranjuez MANUEL DE FALLA Nights in the Gardens of Spain NIKOLAI RIMSKY-KORSAKOV Tickets available at our box-o’ce Capriccio Espagnol, Op. 34 1000 So•a, 1 Aksakov Street CLASSICAL MUSIC IN CINEMA www.so•aphilharmonie.bg 52 CULTURE

ZENITH FUSION FESTIVAL Regenerating traditions in the mystical Rhodope village of Dolen This summer in the village of Dolen will be the scene for unique meeting between the past and the future where world and local musicians will perform together on stage. The occasion is the Zenith Fusion Festival, which will take place from June 24th till 26th. The music festival will set up in dialogue tradition and contemporary in art, presented in an innovative way. The folklore will jump bridges between the past and the future and it will take its full place in the global world. “We found a really beautiful place which for me expresses grate extend of Bulgarian beauty – nature, people, traditions, architecture etc. We added some music to it. A really nice music from bands like Oratnitza, Tupani i gaidi, Kottarasky, Merudia – all bands which are working exactly on this field of combining their etno elements with more modern stuff. I think all of them are good ambassadors of Bulgaria because they share that tradition has a place in our futuristic music. I think that Bulgaria can build upon their history.”, shares Tim Gubel, the director of the festival. After visiting the village of Dolen on my own I have to admit that the festival will happen on an absolutely magical location. Zenith Festival is an excuse to escape from the reality and to go further in the mountains Rhodope. The hospitality of the local grandmothers and the breathtaking view and the old traditional architecture will amaze you even more when it is combined with music in etno fusion style. Some of the great names which will participate in the event are Misirli Ahmet, Svetlana Spajic and Petar Ralchev. “Imagine that a musician from Mongolia or Peru to sing with the grandmothers of Satovcha and Dolen. It sounds almost unbelievable, but we are working on this idea.”, said Tim Gubel. The amphitheatrical stage becomes a window to the world during the Bulgarian traditional celebration of “Eniovden” (known as “Midsummer” in some cultures). I will definitely to see you there. There is only limited number of 300 tickets available. Find out about the program and more on Facebook and www.zenithfestival.org/bg/

Author: Lyubina Panayotova CULTURE 53 Programme SOFIA THEATRE 23A Yanko Sakazov Blvd. phone.: +359 2 944 24 85 / +359 878 92 75 21 www.sofiatheatre.eu “Sofia” Theatre has the pleasure to invite you to be part of one unforgettable experience with performances also with subtitles in English. All performances with subs will be designated with this symbol: * Please make your reservation on the phone: +359 878 927 521 in order to receive the best look on both – stage and subtitles.

FOR ADULTS - THE PLAYS BEGIN AT 19:00 FOR CHILDREN - THE PLAYS BEGIN AT 11:00 GRAND HALL GRAND HALL 2nd – OLD SAYBROOK and LAST OF THE RED HOT LOVERS * 1st, 19:00 – RONIA THE ROBBER’S DAUGHTER 3rd – ANTIGONE * 4th – PETER PAN * 6th – THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME * 5th – PIPPI LONGSTOCKING 8th – JUMP! * 12th – RONIA THE ROBBER’S DAUGHTER 12th – TIRAMISU * PIPPI LONGSTOCKING 15th – THE NIGHT OF JANUARY 16TH 16th – THE GOVERNMENT INSPECTOR 17th – THE MINISTER’S WIFE

CHAMBER HALL 4th – MADAM MISHIMA – guest performance by Association “Artsenzorium” 5th, 18th – APPETITE FOR CHERRIES 12th – INVITATION FOR DINNER

PIPPI LONGSTOCKING

Theatre Bulgarian Army

98, Rakovski Str. & 02 987 23 03 www.tba.art.bg facebook.com/armytheatre

The plays begin at 19.00 1st, 19th - shoot the artist 2nd - THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST 9th - SEX, DRUGS AND ROCK’N’ROLL 10th, 28th - Schweik 13th, 21st - THE IRON CRESSET 14th - otelo 20th - let’s wag the dogs 22nd, 24th - last supper of levski deacon 23rd - SCISSORS KILLER Scene MIRACLE-19.30 Author: Lyubina Panayotova 27th - MUCH ADO ABOUTH NOTHING 16th - final orders 54 CULTURE

Programme Sofia Opera and Ballet 1, Vrabcha Str. & 02 987 13 66 www.operasofia.bg

Main Hall 3rd, 19:00 - NORMA 4th, 19:00 - NORMA Hall and Hall “Babies” Program for Children 5th, 16:00 - NORMA 4th, 11:00 - LA FILLE MAL GARDEE 10th, 19:00 - CARMEN, RHAPSODY IN BLUE 5th, 11:00 - CINDERELLA - BALLET FOR CHILDREN 11th, 19:00 - LA GENERENTOLA 11th, 11:00 - THE GOLDEN APPLE 12th, 16:00 - GISELLE 12th, 11:00 - WINNIE-THE-POOH 17th, 19:00 - EUGENE ONEGIN 18th, 11: 00 - LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD 18th, 19:00 - BALLET GALA EVENING - CELEBRATION 19th, 11: 00 - HÄNSEL UND GRETEL . OF 40 YEARS PEDAGOGIC ACTIVITY OF KRASIMIRA 25th, 11: 00 - DIE ZAUBERFLÖTE - FOR CHILDREN KOLDAMOVA 26th, 11: 00 - LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD. 21st, 19:00 - RIGOLETTO 25th, 19:00 - SWAN LAKE CONCERT FOR BABIES - Friday, Saturday; Sunday 26th, 16:00 - SWAN LAKE from 11:00 a.m. : 4th; 5th; 11th; 12th; 18th; 19th; Sofia National Opera and Ballet – June 2016 Chamber 25th; 26th

National Music & Ballet Center - Sofia

100, Vasil Levski Blvd. & 02 943 19 79 24th, 19.00 - countess mariza www.musictheatre.bg 25th, 19.00 - vienna blood www.arabesque.bg 26th, 11.00 - golden cockerel 26th, 17.00 - The Merry Widow 1st, 14.00 - Yan Bibyan 29th, 19.00 - the prodigy of operetta 2nd, 19.00 - giggle 30th, 19.00 - the bad 3rd, 4th, 19.00 - LONG LIVE ROCK & MUSICAL John Lowton and „NIGHTHEАT” concert Arabesk Ballet 4th,10.00 - golden cockerel 9th, 19.00 - the mirror of the time 10th, 19.00 - the beauty Helen 11th, 11.00 - cinderella - ballet for children 11th, 19.00 - BULGARIANS FROM OLDEN TIMES 15th, 19.00 - THE waiting room - PREMIERRE 12th, 12.00 - THE SLEEPING BEUTY 14th, 19.00 - snow white and the seven dwarfs 30, Yanko Sakazov Blvd., 14th, 19.00 - The Charlie’s Aunt City Mark Art Center 16th, 19.00 - one night in venice 5th,11.00 - sharl the cat 17th, 19.00 - Love&death in Moulin Rouge 25th, 11.00 - sharl the cat 18th, 19.00 - Love&death in Moulin Rouge 11th, 11.00 - Yan Bibyan 19th, 17.00 - THE CSARDAS QUEEN 12th, 11.00 - golden cockerel 23rd, 19.00 - Concert 18th, 11.00 - golden cockerel CULTURE 55

Culture Centers - Programme

Goethe-Institut Budapesta-Str. 1 1000 Sofia, Bulgaria & +359 2 939 0100, 0101 fax +359 2 939 0199 mail: [email protected] www.goethe.de/sofia

“WAITING FOR GODOT” by Samuel Beckett On 15.06.2016 and 16.06.2016 at 7 p.m. at National Theatre “Ivan Vazov” In German with Bulgarian and English subtitles. Translation from German: Elmar Tophoven Director: Ivan Panteleev Set and costumes designer: Mark Lammert Assistant to set designer: Ulrich Belaschk Assistant to costume designer: Karin Rosemann Lightening: Robert Grauel Sound-design: Martin Person Dramaturgy: Claus Caesar Cast: Wolfram Koch, Samuel Finzi, Andreas Döhler, Christian Grashof In memoriam of Dimiter Gotscheff. This event is organized by Goethe-Institut – Sofia, part of the program of the festival “World Theatre in Sofia”.

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

Photography exhibition by Agnieszka Rayss within the Month of Photography 2016 13th June – 31st August 2016 Agnieszka Rayss is a photographer, whose field of work is documentary photography. She is two-time winner of the Picture of the Year award in 2011 and 2012, two-time finalist in the Hasselblad Masters Award, winner of press photography competitions. Recipient of a scholarship from the Ministry of Culture in 2012 and from the Visegrad Fund in 2007. We invite you to see her works from the albums “American Dream”, “I Reminisce and Cry for Life” and “Beautiful Bodies”. 56 CULTURE

Museums

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 precious 3 exhibits in Bulgaria’s8 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

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2 Earth and Man7 National Museum A unique mineralogical museum, which keeps more than 3 20 000 samples8 collected all over the world. 4, Cherni Vrah Blvd. 4 & 02 865 66 399 www.earthandman.org Open: Tue-Sat, 10.00-18.00 510

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3 Park Museum8 - Vrana The park where the Vrana royal palace is located has an area of 968 acres. There are 821 decorative plants in it. 4 Routs, ready for9 the visitors, are about 350 acres. In 2001 Simeon Sakskoburggotski donated most of the park to 51Capital Municipality0 as in the agreement there is a clause for free access of citizens. 1 6 381, Tsarigradsko Shose & 02 963 45 66 2 Open: Only Saturday7 and Sunday: 10.00 - 16.00

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4 National History9 Museum The museum stores more than 650 000 exhibits and is one of the largest history museums on the Balkans. It also 510 1 exhibits amazing6 recent Thracian gold discoveries. Boyana, 16, Vitoshko Lale Str. 2 (Residence Boyana,7 Palace 1) & 02 955 42 80 3 www.historymuseum.org8 Open: Mon-Sun, 09.30 -18.00 4 9

51National Historical-archaelogical0 church Museum The museum contains more than 11 000 shrines and historical monuments such as icons, prints, carvings, books, liturgical utensils, models of ancient churches, photo albums temples and manuscripts of bishops and leaders, including Exarch Antim I, Exarch Joseph I, Metr. Clement of Tarnovo, Neophyte Bozveli and etc. Square Sveta Nedelya & 02 989 01 15; 02 988 39 50 Open: Mon-Sun 09.00 - 17.00 CULTURE 57

1 6 National Museum of Natural History - BAS The richest museum of natural history on the 2 7 Balkans. Over a million specimens of animals, plants and minerals. 3 8 1, Tsar Osvoboditel Blvd. (near the Russian Church) 4 9 www.nmnhs.com & 02 987 41 95 Open: Mon–Sun, 10.00-18.00 510

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2 7 National Military - History Museum The richest Bulgarian state collections 3 8 of weapons, uniforms, insignia, flags, military seals, photographs. 4 9 92, Cherkovna Str. & 02 2 946 18 05 mail: [email protected] 510 www.militarymuseum.bg 1 6 Open: Wed-Sun, 10.00-18.00

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3 8 Royal Palace - Ethnographic Museum Temporary exhibitions from Bulgarian and foreign 4 9 artists. 1, Knyaz Alexander I Square 510 & 02 980 00 93, 1 6 & 02 980 72 62 Open: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. 2 7 Closed on Mondays

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4 9 National Polytechnic Museum Permanent expositions: watches, safety lamps, surveying equipment, physical appliances, 510 1 6 automobiles, communication equipment, communication equipment.

2 7 66, Opalchenska Str. & 02 931 80 18 3 8 Open: Mon-Fri, 09.00-17.00

4 9

510 Socialist Art Museum The exposition, within a hall and a sculpture park, presents examples of Bulgarian art, created within the period 1944–1989, thematically related to the period of socialism and the realistic trends of art - workers, farmers and leaders of the proletariat. 7, Lachezar Stanchev str. & 02 902 18 62 Open: 10:00 – 18:00 Closed on Mondays 58 Useful Numbers

Airline Companies Car Rentals

& 02 402 04 00 e-mail: [email protected] 53, Nikola Vaptsarov (map back) For sales and reservations: & 02 402 04 05, 02 402 04 06 & 02 439 02 22/ 23 e-mail: [email protected] fax: 02 439 12 25 Internet reservation: 02 402 04 61 e-mail: [email protected] e-mail: [email protected] Sofia Airport: & 029 459 217 www.air.bg

Bus Lines Language for Foreigners

Trust, safe and comfort! Reserve and buy your tickets on-line on: www.busticket.bg Sofia, Veliko Tarnovo, Varna, Burgas, Ruse, Stara Zagora Central bus station – ticket office No.7 &+359 (2)988 45 51 &+359 886 554 884 ST. KLIMENT OHRIDSKI UNIVERSITY OF SOFIA &+359 888 485 620 DEPARTMENT FOR LANGUAGE TEACHING e-mail:[email protected]; www.biomet.bg AND INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS (DLTIS) 27 Kosta Lulchev Street, 1111 SOFIA & (+359 2) 8710 069, (+359 2) 971 71 62, Fax: (+ 359 2) 870 53 28 E-mail: [email protected] www.deo.uni-sofia.bg Sofia 26, Cherni Vrah Blvd. cell: +359 8877 88 077; 0700 19993 Bulgarian Language for Foreigners www.darytravel.com One-to-One/two Course Every Thursday and Saturday – bus tickets from every city of Bulgaria – directly to Italy, Minimum 20 hrs * 19 lv France, Spain and Portugal. Perfect servicing Mini Group Course – 3 persons during your trip and discount prices for our Minimum 20 hrs * 10 lv regular costumers. With pleasure we offer you: INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF BULGARIAN LANGUAGE Airplane tickets, trips and vacations AND CULTURE Bus trips and vacations STANDARD COURSE Individual trips, depending on your preferences 3 weeks (5-day week), Fee: 599 lv. and interests INTENSIVE COURSE Hotel reservations for hotels worldwide 2 week (6-day week), Fee: 549 lv. Bus tickets for Europe STANDARD TEST OF BULGARIAN AS A CENTRAL BUS STATION FOREIGN LANGUAGE 100, Knyaginya Maria Luiza Blvd. (map C0) All the 5 CEFR/ALTE levels: & 0900 21 000 A2, B1, B2, C1 and C2 Fee per level: 369 lv. www.centralnaavtogara.bg

EMERGENCY NUMBER - 112 Useful Numbers 59

Diplomatic Missions contacts phones additional information

Austria 4, Shipka Str. & 02 932 90 32 www.bmeia.gv.at/botschaft/sofia Canadian Honorary Consulate 7, Pozitano Str. & 02 969 97 10 e-mail: [email protected] Germany 25, Fr. Joliot-Curie Str. & 02 918 38 00 www.sofia.diplo.de Sovereign Order of Malta 92, V. Levski Blvd., fl.2 & 02 843 98 61 e-mail: [email protected] Netherlands 15, Oborishte Str. & 02 816 03 00 www.netherlandsembassy.bg United States of America 16, Kozyak Str. & 02 937 51 00 www.usembassy.bg

Info Center Translations Fides Interconsult Ltd. ISO 9001:2008 Lloyd’s Register Quality Assurance Translation, document legalization Underpass of St. Kliment Ohridski Univercity of Sofia 4, Sv. Kliment Ohridski Str. (map F4) and Metrostation St. Kliment Ohridski (next to SU “Kliment Ohridski”) Open: Mon - Fri 9.30 - 18.00 (winter) & /fax: 02 946 13 92; 02 943 86 65 & 02 491 83 44/ 45 cell: 0887 792 282 national tourist information centre e-mail: [email protected] Sofia, 1, Sv.Nedelya Sq. www.fides.bg & +3592 9335811; +3592 9335826 www.bulgariatravel.org

Medical Services Tourist Services City Hospitals & Clinics 127 Okolovrasten pat str., 1407 Sofia & +359 2 960 4949 cityhospitals.bg BULGARIA Wine Tours Reception Phone: 0700 33 900 117, 6th September Blvd., 4000 Plovdiv +359 (0) 884 455 405 +359 (0) 888 487 113 e-mail: [email protected] www.bulgariawinetours.com Memorable wine tours to premium wineries in Bulgaria. MHATEM “N.I.Pirogov” Emergency : 02/ 915 44 11 1606 Sofia, 21, Totleben Blvd diagnostics, therapy, education and training, sci- Locksmith Services entific research, methodology, emergency help. Locksmith Ltd. Lozenets District Railway 27, Tsvetna gradina Str. Central Railway Station (map C8) Knyaginya Maria Luiza Blvd. (map C0) 0888 41 92 88 & 02 931 11 11, 02 932 33 33 www.bdz.bg & 02 963 00 66 Your complimentary copy of the Sofia City®Info Guide is available from hotel rooms, hotel receptions and other public areas at the following top-class Hotels & Services Apartments:

HOTELS Metropolitan Hotel êê êêêêê Novotel Sofia Hotel The House Hotel Arena di Serdika Olives City Hotel Balkan Hotel Sofia Ramada Hotel ê easyHotel Grand Hotel Sofia êêê Hilton Hotel Madrid Hotel Amfora Hotel Holiday Inn Sofia Hotel Arte Hotel Radisson BLU Astra Hotel Hotel Villa Boyana êêêê Ibis Hotel APARTMENT RENTALS Best Western Hotel Expo Montecito Hotel & HOSTELS Best Western City Hotel Plus Legends Hotel Apartment House Bulgaria Boutique Hotel Crystal Palace Meg-Lozenetz Hotel Apartment House Sofia Downtown Hotel Niky Hotel Block 531 Gloria Palace Park Hotel Moskva Be My Guest Hostel Hill Hotel Sofia Place Hotel VIP Apartments Maria Luisa Hotel Slavyanska Beseda Hotel Vitosha Apartments

SUBSCRIPTION OTHERS Inter Expo Center DIPLOMATIC MISSIONS: Airport Sofia - Terminals 1, 2 Information Center Sofia Austria Airline Companies Galleries Canada Business Centres Real Estate Agencies Malta Car Hire Companies Top Restaurants and Bars Netherlands Central Bus Station Travel Agencies USA Cultural Institutes

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

VIP AIRPORT SOFIA & 02 980 85 01 www.cityinfoguides.com