Podcast in English
Text size
Bulgarian National Radio © 2024 All Rights Reserved

Oldest building in Sofia keeps five layers of history

БНР Новини
Photo: library

The oldest preserved building in Sofia is located in the courtyard of the Presidency. This is the rotunda St. George the Victorious, which was in the heart of the ancient Konstantine neighborhood. In its framework was the location palace of the Roman emperor Constantine the Great and noble house of his subjects. The rotunda is part of an archaeological complex, and scientists today are still arguing about the date of its construction (3rd to 4th century). It was mainly used for baptisms but over the years served also as a public building. Because of the presence of remains of an ancient heating system, some archaeologists believe it may have served as a bathroom, as well. The building has retained almost entirely the appearance since its establishment until today, because of which it is considered to be the oldest preserved building in the capital. Its dome was destroyed twice - during the invasion of the Huns and during the Bulgarian siege led by Khan Krum.




Последвайте ни и в Google News Showcase, за да научите най-важното от деня!
Listen to the daily news from Bulgaria presented in "Bulgaria Today" podcast, available in Spotify.

More from category

Bulgarians honor the work of the Seven Saints

On July 27, the Bulgarian Orthodox Church and people glorify the work of the seven saints- the holy brothers Cyril and Methodius, and their disciples Saints Kliment, Naum, Sava, Gorazd and Angelarius. The day was chosen by the church..

published on 7/27/24 7:15 AM

Latest archaeological discoveries in Urvich fortress revive legends of Tsar Yassen

On the road leading from Sofia to Samokov upstream the Iskar River near the big picturesque bend between the former villages of Kokalyane and Pasarel at the Devil's Bridge is the Srednoberdie Ridge. There the Vedena River flows into the Iskar and the..

published on 7/26/24 5:05 AM

Today Orthodox Christians mark the Assumption of St. Anna

The Bulgarian Orthodox church marks the assumption of St. Anna – the saint who gave birth to Maria, the future mother of Jesus Christ. Christians in Bulgaria mark Day of St. Anne - patron of motherhood St. Anna is considered to be the..

published on 7/25/24 7:55 AM