Sofia is once again in the limelight. An extensive article by Vogue sheds light on its dynamic development and unique charm, calling it "the buzziest city in Europe right now". The Bulgarian capital manages to successfully combine rich history and cultural heritage with a modern lifestyle and dynamic economy, the article, illustrated with beautiful photos from Sofia, claims.
The capital city of Bulgaria has seen many changes during its 7,000-year history. Just a stroll through the city center, dotted with old Roman ruins and impressive examples of Ottoman, Byzantine and 20th-century European architecture, is enough to realize that its roots run deep, the Vogue's article reads. However, Sofia’s modern soul can also be seen at every corner.
Sofia has established itself as a leading technology and start-up hub in Southeast Europe. The city has also attracted the attention of the global film industry. Nu Boyana, one of the most famous film studios in Europe, is situated here. Many of the latest Hollywood blockbusters are partially produced in it, the article reads.
Sofia also has dozens of galleries and museums, including the National Gallery of Art, where two-time Oscar-winning actress and photographer Jessica Lange opened her exhibition this summer. Also, a number of culinary, music, literary and art festivals are held in the city. Among them are the Sofia International Film Festival, which this year presented 170 films from more than 50 countries, as well as the International A to Jazz Festival, visited by over 50,000 people annually.
Vogue also spoke with Oscar-nominated Bulgarian actress Maria Bakalova, according to whom Sofia harmoniously combines history and modernity. "Sofia is a city that beautifully blends history and modernity. It’s one of Europe’s oldest capitals, yet it continues to evolve in such dynamic and modern ways. Every time I return, I’m reminded of how vibrant and cosmopolitan it has become while still retaining its unique charm with cozy streets and aristocratic old buildings. It’s quite eclectic and beautiful," the famous Bulgarian actress told Vogue.
It is this duality that makes the city, located at a cultural crossroads, so unique. “It has rawness and unpretentiousness that are a rarity in a world where many cities have been transforming into their TikTok and Instagram-perfect versions,” the article reads.
Sofia is still a diamond in the rough, a city with an old soul in the process of building its modern identity. It is a city that blends Western values and aesthetics while not letting go of its Balkan traditions, Vogue claims.
The article recommends a stroll through the Women's Market, established back in 1878, where one can fill their bags “with everything from fresh produce and home-made jams to counterfeit bags and t-shirts." After a short walk to Saborna Street one can also buy expensive clothes from the shops of world famous companies.
"And in case you get tired of the city’s soundtrack, reset your senses in lush Borisova Gradina, a 3,300-acre park with tree-lined paved trails right in downtown," the article reads and also provides detailed information on where tourists should stay, which bars and restaurants to visit and where to shop in the capital.
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Compiled by: Veneta Nikolova
Photos: BNR – Ani Petrova, BGNES, BTA, archive, nuboyana.com
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