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

Vicissitudes of Saint George Rotunda

4
Photo: pravoslavieto.com

Sofia offers unlimited opportunities for historical walks. The Saint George Rotunda is among the most-visited sites in Bulgaria’s capital. This is the oldest ancient building in the capital city which was relatively well preserved. It was built in the beginning of the 4th century AD during the rule of Emperor Constantine the Great and the upsurge of Ancient Serdica (the old name of Sofia)


Saint George Rotunda is located at the heart of the capital city in the inner yard of the Presidency building only several meters away from the remains of the ancient fortress Serdica. The oval room- the Rotunda has a height of 14 meters and diameter of 9.5 meters. Its altar room has a square shape and the main entrance of the rotunda is located on the western wall.

When the Roman Empire allowed Christianity, the rotunda started serving as baptistery. During the reign of Emperor Justinian the Great, Saint George Rotunda became a church. Its oldest frescoes date balk to that period. The temple survived the Ottoman Rule as well.

You can learn details about the history of one of the most emblematic monuments of culture in Sofia in the publication of Radio Bulgaria’s collection: The Rotunda of Saint George- ancient history and mysteries.

Photos: pravoslavieto.com



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.

Gallery

More from category

The hottest days of the year known as "goreshtnitsi" start in Bulgaria

The  goreshtnitsi –  dog days, the hottest days of summer in Bulgaria fall on 15, 16 and 17 July. Their roots go back to pagan times and are connected with the cult of fire. The tradition of  goreshtnitsi  is observed mostly in Northern and..

published on 7/15/24 10:34 AM
Photo: Scientific Society of Bulgarians in the Republic of Moldova

Bulgarians in Moldova pay tribute to the feat of Hristo Botev and the heroes of Bulgaria

Did you know that in the Moldovan capital Chisinau there is a street named after Hristo Botev? Located about three kilometers from the city center, there stands an impressive monument to the Bulgarian poet, revolutionary and public figure, who died in..

published on 6/1/24 2:10 PM

The tradition of sending Easter cards in Bulgaria dates back to the Liberation

When we have a special occasion where we meet relatives or friends, as a sign of respect and as a memory, we usually present them with a gift, complete with a beautiful card. In the past, the card received was kept as a cherished memory and even passed..

published on 5/4/24 4:35 AM