ISSN 1311-9753 I COMPLIMENTARY MONTHLY GUIDE + MAP I JANUARY 2013 I ISSUE 235
Bulgaria in Brief 1
2 CONTENTS Bulgaria in Brief
city guides
City Info Guide
SOFIA Your free copy 4 Bulgaria in Brief 18
BUSINESS
20
Sofia Overview
28
Accommodation
p. 63
38 Bars AND Restaurants
p. 68
52 Entertainment 58 Culture 70 Useful Numbers p. 64
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Bulgaria in Brief 3
Dear friends,
Happy New 2013 Let’s welcome it with much hope and dreams, bright thoughts and lots of love!
For our team 2013 is an anniversary year! 20 years we have been presenting the Capital to foreign visitors the way we wanted they to remember it! During all those 20 years the readers are the ones appreciating us – they continue to look for the guides, to be up to date with the monthly issues of Sofia City Info Guide. Within those years we created two more editions for Varna and Burgas which became the guides of the Black Sea! We thank everyone for the trust as well as our sponsors and partners. Until April when we will celebrate with you expect many surprises, competitions and events we will announce our site www.cityinfoguide.net and facebook Sofia City Info Guide. We will be happy you to write and share your recommendations as well as send us photos and impressions of your stay in Bulgaria – seen through the eyes of you. City Info Guide Team
4 Bulgaria in Brief
Town of Razlog Town of Razlog (until 1923 – Mehomia), an economic, cultural and administrative center of Razlog Municipality carries the spirit of Bulgarian Renaissance and culture.
www.razlog.bg Visiting the city will drown you into the renaissance atmosphere of the small but rich in architectural and tourist sites town. Do not miss to see the old residential buildings – templates of razlozhkochepinska house which are monuments
of culture. The old town houses (from the 30s of this century) downtown, the greenness of the parks, the freshness of the water and the panoramic view of Pirin and Rila mountains fascinate the tourist. The Annunciation and Saint George Churches, the town museum in
Parapunova house, the Kipremaksevata house, the fulling-mill of Yazo River are part of the many local attractions we recommend you to visit. In addition to the sights of the Renaissance – here is the kingdom of golf, the place is Pirin Golf Club & SPA. If you want to have unforgettable memories from Bulgaria – visit Razlog Municipality and enjoy its beauties throughout all seasons of the year.
Don’t miss
V INTERNATIONAL MUMMERS CARNIVAL STARCHEVATA - RAZLOG 19 JANUARY 2013, BULGARIA
Bulgaria in Brief 5
6 Bulgaria in Brief welcome to bulgaria
Welcome to one of the oldest European states with 6000year old gold treasures, a centre of ancient civilisations, a country that hosts the sanctuary of the mystical singer Orpheus and gave the world the first Slavonic letters. Bulgaria is a small country by area and population, but it was this precise piece of land that God blessed with unearthly beautiful nature, a proud people and rich culture. Bulgarians are a hospitable nation – they will greet you like dear guests, will open their hearts and home for you and will see you off with sincere wishes for you to come back again...
FACTS & FIGURES
Population: 7 364 570 Area: 110 993 sq. km Language: Bulgarian Religion: Orthodox Summer temperatures: 26° to 30°C Winter temperatures: -5° to 5°C Time zone: GMT +2 (Apr-Sept GMT +3) Country dialing code: 00 359 Internet country code: .bg President: Rosen Plevnevliev Administrative division: 28 regions 263 municipalities Capital: Sofia (pop. 1 291 591) Major Cities: Plovdiv (671 918), Varna (468 220), Bourgas (409 018), Rousse (230 847), Stara Zagora (327 576), Pleven (266 144), Sliven (193 609), Dobrich (186 016), Shumen (180 452), Pernik (133 750), Yambol (129 156), Haskovo (242 030).
Location and Territory Bulgaria is located in South-Eastern Europe and occupies the Eastern part of the Balkan Peninsula. To the North, the country borders with Romania via the Danube River, to the East it touches the Black Sea, its southern neighbours are Turkey and Greece, and to the West it borders with the Republic of Macedonia and Serbia. The total territory of the country is 110 993 sq. km and Bulgaria ranks 15th in size among the other European countries.
History The Bulgarian state was founded in 681 as a union of new-settled Proto-Bulgarians, Slavs and with the participation of the local Balkan people and Thracians. The Thracians were a tribal society who inhabited a vast area in Central and Southeastern Europe. They were known for making filigree gold and silver jewellery. The great Homer described a Thracian king in Iliad, having “the biggest and handsomest horses I ever saw,/whiter than snow and swifter than the winds/and a chariot finely wrought with silver and gold.” The so called proto-Bulgarians came to the Bulgarian lands from the steppe region of the Volga River basin. They were nomads and in IVc. AD were associated with the Huns. Although being a tribe of equestrians protoBulgarians, in VII c. AD they allied with the sedentary people of the Slavs, who had spreaded all over Central and Eastern Europe and the Balkans in 6th century,
mainly shepherds and farmers, to form the The First Bulgarian State. It gained political recognition from the Byzantine Empire in 681 A.D. The state was ruled by Khan Asparuh, the leader of the proto-Bulgarians, and its capital was Pliska. This First Bulgarian State stretched from Transylvania in the north to the Aegean Sea in the south and from the Black Sea in the east to the Adriatic Sea in the west. It fell to the Byzantines in 1018. During that period, in 855 was created the Slavic alphabet. It was named Cyrillic alphabet, named after St. Cyril, and corresponded perfectly to the phonetic riches of the Slavonic-Bulgarian language. As of today more than 250 million people in Europe and Asia use the cyrillyc alphabet for their national languages, half of them are in Russia. With the accession of Bulgaria in EU, Cyrillic became the third official alphabet of the union. It is in 864 that Tsar Boris I converted the state to Orthodox Christianity. The Second Bulgarian State, established in 1185 at Veliko Tarnovo, reinstated the borders and a Golden Age began during which Bulgaria bordered on three seas. From 1396 to 1878 the country was under the rule (the so called ‘yoke’) of the Ottoman Turks. Sofia became the capital of Bulgaria after the Veliko Tarnovo Constitution was accepted in 1879. From 1878 (liberation from the Turks) to 1944, Bulgaria enjoyed a brief but unstable period of freedom. After 1944 the Communist Party, led by Georgi Dimitrov, took power and proclaimed Bulgaria a People’s Republic in 1946. The Communist regime lasted till November 10th, 1989 when Bulgaria peacefully ousted the Party leader Todor Zhivkov. One of the first sign of Bulgaria’s democratization after 1989 was the establishment of a multi-party system. The new Constitution of the Republic of Bulgaria, adopted on July 12, 1991, proclaims the country as parliamentary republic. On March 29, 2004 Bulgaria joined NATO, and on January 1, 2007 the country became a member of the European Union.
State System
State power in Bulgaria divides into three branches: legislative (represented by the National Assembly), executive (represented by the Bulgarian Government) and judiciary legislative (represented by the Supreme Judiciary Council and the Supreme Court of Cassation). The National Assembly of Bulgaria (Narodno Subranie) consists of 240 deputies, elected for 4-year terms. The parliament enacts laws, approves the budget of the country and ratifies international treaties and agreements. Currently there are six parties in the 41st National Assembly. The largest one is Citizens for European Development of Bulgaria, having 116 seats, followed by Coalition for Bulgaria, with 40 seats and the Movement for Rights and Freedoms, with 38 seats. The president of Bulgaria is elected for a 5-year term and is the head of state and the commander in chief of the armed forces.
Bulgaria in Brief 7
8 Bulgaria in Brief Economy Before the changes in Eastern Europe, the country was entirely dependent of the Soviet Union and the socialist block. A positive change began in 1997, when the currency board system was introduced in Bulgaria, i.e. the national currency (BGN) was fixed to the German Mark, and later to the Euro. Thanks to the strict monetary discipline of the currency board in combination with a series of reforms, the economic system was stabilized and the restoration process was initiated. The years of development of the national economy, seeing an average GDP growth of 4.5% between 1998 and 2005, were followed by steady growth of GDP. In 2005, GDP growth reached 5.5%, in 2006 – 6,1 %, 2007 – 6,2 %, 2008 – 6,6% . This growth has been driven by increased foreign investments, domestic consumption and exports. In 2009, Bulgaria’s GDP fell by 5.1 %, ending a threeyears growth pattern. However after the economy’s stagnation in 2010, in 2011 and 2012, the real GDP growth reached 0.2% and 1.7%. Currently Bulgaria ranks 59th (out of 183 world economies) in the Doing Business 2012 report of the IFC and the World Bank, measuring business regulations and their enforcement.
Currency Bulgarian Lev is pegged to the EURO (EURO 1 = BGN 1,95583). Presently coins in circulation are issued in 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 stotinki and 1 lev. Paper currency comes in 2, 5,10, 20, 50 and 100 leva.
Banking System Currently 30 banks are functioning in the country, serving their consumers through well distributed and balanced network of 2929 branches. They are stable, have excellent capital adequacy and liquidity indicators and the banking supervision is operating properly. The banking system work according to the European legislation and world standards, and 80% of it is formed of top-rate banks of the Euro-zone. The three biggest banks – Unicredit Bulbank, DSK Bank and the United Bulgarian Bank, possess over 40% of all bank assets and generate over a half of the profit in the sector. The Bulgarian consumer is still conservative and prefers to pay in cash. However, the bank payments are developing fast in the past years.
Religion Full freedom of the religious denominations is proclaimed in the Constitution of the Republic of Bulgaria. According to the census from 2011, 76% of the population are Eastern Orthodox Christians, 10 % are Muslims, 0.8% - Catholics, 1.1% are Protestants and 0,2 % are from other religions.
Population and Ethnic Groups Bulgaria is a country with a population of almost 8 millions people. Until the middle of the last century three quarters of the population lived in the villages. At the end of the century, as a result of the last industrialization and the migration to the cities, the ratio has reserved and today 70% is urban population. With its 1,5 million residents the capital city Sofia is the
biggest in Bulgaria. There are seven cities with more than 100 thousand population where nearly a third of the entire population of the country lives. Another 14 towns have between 50 and 100 thousand residents. The proportion between women and men in Bulgaria is 51,4 % to 48,6 %. The smaller share of men is due to their shorter life expectancy, and therefore is sharper in the age groups of over 50 years. According to the 2001 census, 83,9 % of the people in Bulgaria are ethnic Bulgarians, and the biggest minorities are the ethnic Turks (9,4%) and the Roma (4,7%). The remaining 2% include smaller minorities like Armenians, Russians, Romanians, Ukrainians, Greeks and Jews. The majority of the adult Bulgarians have secondary or higher education and among the people between 25 and 64 years of age their share is over two-third.
Official Language and Alphabet The official language is Bulgarian and the official alphabet is Cyrilic. The Bulgarian language belongs to the group of the Slavonic languages. Serbo-Croatian and Russian are the most similar languages to it. Other languages as English, German, French, Russian and Spanish are spoken by 40 % of the population.
Topography The country’s relief is varied (from 0 to 2,925 m above the sea level) and about 60 percent of the territory are hilly and mountainous. The most famous mountains are: Rila (with the highest mountain peak on the Balkan Peninsula Mussala – 2 925 m), Pirin (Vihren Peak – 2 914 m), the Central Balkan (Botev Peak – 2 376 m), the Rhodope Mountains (Golyam Perelik Peak – 2 191 m) and Vitosha Mountain near Sofia (Cherni Vrah Peak – 2 290 m). Numerous natural phenomena are scattered across the country: mountain passes and gorges rock-pyramids and bizarre rock formations, numerous caves and waterfalls, beautiful lakes. Some of the most famous are: the Melnik Pyramids, the Fossil Forest, the Belogradchik Rocks; the gorges of the rivers Trigradska in the Rhodopes and Erma near the town of Tran, Vratsata; the valleys of the rivers Iskar, Struma and Mesta, the canyon of the Roussenski Lom River; the Srebarna Lake; the rock monastery Aladja off the city of Varna, etc. There is a great diversity of karst forms, among these some 4,600 caves. The deepest cave in Bulgaria is Raichova Dupka (387 m deep), and the longest is Duhlata (17,600 m long). The best known are: the Ledenika, the Magurata and the Saeva Dupka Caves in the Balkan range; the Snezhanka, the Yagodinskata, the Dyavolsko Garlo, and the Uhlovitsa Caves – in the Rhodope Mountains.
Climate The climate is moderate continental with Mediterranean influence to the South. The average annual temperature is 10,5 degrees Celsius. Four seasons are distinctly expressed – winter, spring, summer and autumn. January is the coldest month of the year. July and August are the hottest summer months and sometimes temperatures go above 30 degrees Celsius. Bulgarians enjoy 2000 to 24000 hours of sunlight per year.
Bulgaria in Brief 9
10 Bulgaria in Brief Waters Bulgaria boasts a huge variety and number of mineral springs of different chemical composition, suitable for prophylaxis and treatments of many diseases. There are about 600 mineral water deposits in Bulgaria with more than 1,600 springs, located mainly at the foothills of mountains. There are many spa resorts in Bankya, Velingrad, Sandanski, the mineral baths of Stara Zagora, Narechen, Sliven and Haskovo, as well as in Kyustendil, Varshets, Hissarya, Merichleri, Momin Prohod and Kostenets. Beautiful lakes lie hidden in the cirques of Rila and Pirin Mountains. There are also dams, surrounded by impressive nature, such as Iskar, Batak, Dospat and many others.
Flora and Fauna Bulgaria is rich in places where nature has been preserved almost unspoiled and vegetation demonstrates remarkable diversity. A total of 12 360 species have been found in its composition. There are more than 12 National parks across the country with various natural reserves on their territory. The Bulgarian endemic plants, which are to be found nowhere else in the world, number more than 250 species: Rila Primrose, Balkan Violet, Bulgarian Blackberry, Rhodope Tulip, etc. Forests abound with various wild fruit – all of them of proven flavour. There is also a great diversity of herbs. Bulgaria’s fauna numbers more than 13,000 species. Rare mammal species are also to be found in the country.
Communication The country offers a highway network, including six international highways, which meet the international standards and link Europe with the Orient, and the North with the South. Four out of the ten Trans-European corridors cross the territory of Bulgaria – IV, VIII, IX and X. The first airline in the country, Sofia-Burgas, was opened in 1947. Today there are four Bulgaran airports, servicing commercial airlines: Burgas Airport (BOJ), Plovdiv Airport (PDV), Sofia Airport (SOF) and Varna Airport (VAR). Inter-city and long distance bus transport are also well developed. Urban transport services are provided mainly by bus lines, trolley buses, subway and tramways. Petrol stations on the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria offer petrol with octane numbers 92, 98 and 95 H-unleaded, as well as diesel fuel. There are petrol stations at each FCPP, along international and secondary roads, and in towns and villages. Railway roads – 6 500 km, the better part of which are electric power operated.
Border and Customs Regulations On the 1st of January 2007 Bulgaria joined the European Union. Visitors arriving from the EU don’t need a visa, but should carry a passport or other valid identity
document confirming the nationality of the bearer. 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 90 days. For further information visit the website of the Bulgarian Embassy or Consulate in your country. All other foreigners may cross the border of the Republic of Bulgaria if they hold a valid passport and an appropriate visa (Airport Transit Visa, Transit Visa, Regular Visa or Work Visa). As of 2012, Schengen visa holders have the right for a stay of up to 30 days within 6 months period, withut a short-stay Bulgarian visa. Visitors must have proof of sufficient funds (according to the duration and the conditions of the stay) and onward or return tickets in addition to other documents needed for the next destination. Valid health insurance is required. All visitors to Bulgaria, other than EU nationals, must register as foreigners at the passport directorate on 48, Maria Luisa Blvd. (9th–12th Counter) within five days of arrival. This registration is usually done as a matter of course through the hotel or accommodation establishment. Immigration and entry regulations are very strictly enforced. Passports of all visitors should be valid for at least six months on entry for those requiring a visa, and three months on entry for visa exempt nationals other than those from EU countries, whose passports must be valid for the period of stay.
Traffic Regulations Traffic rules on the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria, as well as road signals, are in compliance with European Standards. If you enter Bulgaria in a private vehicle, you must have your driving licence, all original registration and ownership documents (including logbook) as well as insurance valid in Bulgaria. If you have hired a car you must have the original contract document, which should state that the vehicle can be brought into Bulgaria. Participants in a road accident driving a car with foreign registration are obliged to remain on the site and wait for the traffic police to come.Drivers are banned from driving after consuming alcoholic drinks (over 0.5 percent per 1000 in the blood) and/or when they are under the influence of other intoxicating substances.The use of a mobile phone while driving is permitted but only with the help of a hands-free device.Travelling around the country, drivers should not exceed the following limitations in km. per hour:
Bulgaria in Brief 11
12 Bulgaria in Brief Vignette System
Telephone Services
The Vignette system is valid for the National Road Network, except for the ring roads and by-pass roads of populated areas as well as the roads within populated areas. Buying a vignette, you have the right to use over 300 km of motor ways and over 18 000 km of roads for the period specified in the vignette.
M-tel, Vivatel and Globul are GSM operators providing digital cellular telecommunication services in Bulgaria. Europe, America, Near East, Japan, Africa and Australia can be dialed directly.
Where to buy a vignette from? There are more than 3000 points of sale, incl. gasstations, post offices and points of sale.You can also buy a vignette from all border-crossing points (BPCs) of the Republic of Bulgaria. There you will find the units of REA (designatead with the relevant mark). These units are open 24 hours. The prices of vignettes are in Euro (EUR). ATTENTION: Driving road vehicles on the Vignette Network without a valid vignette, is a violation and subject to sanctions in accordance to the Road Traffic Law. Assess carefully the duration of your stay and buy appropriate vignette. Prices in EURO of vignette types by categories:
Category C1 EC0 Category “Euro 0, I, II” annual – 665; monthly – 110; weekly – 38; daily – 7
Category C1 EC0 Category “Euro III, IV, V, EEV” annual – 511; monthly – 85; weekly – 30; daily – 7
Category C2 EC0 Category “Euro 0, I, II” annual – 348; monthly – 60; weekly – 22; daily – 7
Category C2 EC0 Category “Euro III, IV, V, EEV” annual – 268; monthly – 46; weekly – 17; daily – 7
Category C3 annual – 34; monthly – 13; weekly – 5
Press and Radio Foreign Press Foreign language newspapers and magazines can be found in the newsstands, as well as at the receptions desk of every hotel.
Foreign Radio BBC World Service 91.0 MHz Sofia
Bulgarian Radio Horizont: 103.0 MHz Sofia; 100.9 MHz Varna; 102.5 MHz Bourgas Classic FM Radio 89.10 MHz Sofia JAZZ FM Radio 104 MHz Sofia Darik Radio 105 MHz Sofia
All the operators offer prepaid vouchers. For those countries that cannot be dialed directly you must order the call by dialing & 0123. For any other kind of international operator assistance dial & 0123. For some useful telephone numbers please turn to back pages of this guide.
tourism
Bulgaria is a small country (2% of the territory of Europe), but it is blessed with magnificent nature and offers unique opportunities for various types of tourism. The temperate climate makes Bulgaria a perfect destination during all four seasons of the year. Virgin natural beauty, ancient cultures, picturesque villages frozen in time, where life marches in the rhythm of centuries long past – these are only some of the visions and emotions you will be able to store forever in your memories. 37 mountains can be found on a territory of only 110 879 sq.km, each different from the others, with its own charm and attractions. Thousands of opportunities to study the wild flora and fauna and tempting hiking trips await all those wishing to enjoy the beauty of Bulgarian nature. In Bulgaria you will witness the colorful traditions, preserved in many parts of the country, taste local culinary specialties and wines or even master some traditional craft. With that many opportunities for an exciting tour of this small country with rich history and culture, the village, spa, ecological, mountain, adventure, religious, and cultural tourism are the fastest growing branches of tourism over the past few years.
Black Sea Coast Bulgarian sea resorts offer excellent accommodation at five, four, three, and two-star hotels, both seasonal and working all year round, offering a variety of sports and fun activities. The following Bulgarian sea resorts were awarded the prestigious Blue Flag Award: Roussalka, Albena, Golden Sands, Riviera, Sunny Day, Elenite, Nessebar Beach, Sunny Beach, Pomorie Beach, Duni, and the International Youth Center in Primorsko. Various harbours and piers provide opportunities for yachting, surfing, water skiing, scuba diving, motor driving. For more info, look for Varna City Info Guide and Burgas City Info Guide, www.cityinfoguide.net
Bulgaria in Brief 13 Village Tourism “Bulgaria in miniatures”a mobile guide A unique information system was launched on the Bulgarian National Holiday (3 March) 2006, which cannot be found anywhere else in Europe. Bulgarian and non-Bulgarian visitors alike can now receive information about some of the most popular historical monuments and natural phenomena in Bulgaria. “Bulgaria in miniatures” is a mobile guide created with the support of the three largest mobile phone operators in this country. The most significant historical monuments and natural sites in the capital and other towns have now been sign-posted with the number the visitors could dial in order to find information about them in Bulgarian and English languages. The sites in Sofia include: Alexander Nevski Cathedral, Saint Sophia Basilica, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Monument of Tsar Osvoboditel, National Arts Gallery, National Foreign Art Gallery, Sofia City Hall, Ivan Vazov’s House-Museum, National Theatre of Ivan Vazov, Parliament Building, Unknown Soldier Monument, Saint George Rotund, Sofia University of Kliment Ohridski, Bulgarian National Bank, Boyana Church, National Library of Cyril and Mehtodius, Vasil Levski Monument, Vasil Levski Stadium, and The
Ski Resorts The winter tourism develops even more intensively. More than EUR 500 million investments were allocated to the Bansko resort, and even more are planned for other traditional winter resort like Borovets and Pamporovo in the coming year. The sustained growth stimulates investments in the branch. The facilities are being renovated while the prices in Bulgaria remain considerably lower than in competitive countries. The capacity of the winter resort increases. During the summer Alps-like mountains offer opportunities for mountain, rock climbing and caving in the 4300 caves (12 are supplied with electricity). Higher mountain areas provide excellent conditions for different sport, e.g. ski mountaineering, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, etc.
Unesco Heritage The UNESCO List of World Heritage now features over 300 landmarks. Nine Bulgarian wonders - seven cultural and two natural sites – are included among them: Rila Monastery, Nessebar, The Kazanluk Tomb, The Sveshtari Tomb, The Madara Horseman, The Boyana Church, The Ivanovo Rock Monasteries, Pirin National Park, Sreburna Lake.
Village tourism in Bulgaria in recent years successfully competes with that in other European countries. The stay in a Bulgarian village provides a unique opportunity to submerge in a traditional environment and lifestyle, which span times and cultures. Imagine magical views, charming villas, guest houses and family hotels, organic food, hospitable local people, over 600 mineral springs, the scent of rose oil and you will gain only a glimpse of what is in store for you.
Adventure Tourism Adventure tourism in Bulgaria is gaining momentum because all regions of the country are equally suitable for high-adrenaline thrills. In most of the mountains you can enjoy incredible rock caves, climb amazing peaks, and finally, soar in the skies with a paraglider. Some of our famous resorts such as Bansko, Borovets and Pamporovo offer opportunities to practice winter extreme sports.
bulgarian cuisine
Bulgarian cuisine consists of plenty of fresh vegetables, eaten raw, roasted or stewed with meat in terra-cotta pots, lots of garlic, onions, oil and spices. Influences of Bulgaria’s neighbours, Turkey and Greece are also present in dishes such as ‘sarmi’ (stuffed vine leaves), moussaka and baklava. A salad and rakia (Bulgarian schnapps) are the obligatory start to the meal. Listed below are traditional Bulgarian Dishes, well worth a try:
Salads Shopska salata – chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, onions and peppers sprinkled with Bulgarian white cheese Snezhanka – thick creamy yoghurt with chopped cucumber or gherkins, walnuts and garlic Kyopolou – roasted aubergines, peppers, loads of garlic, parsley
Soups Bob chorba – traditional bean soup with plenty of herbs Shkembe chorba – tripe soup with garlic, vinegar and chilli, quite tasty if you can bring yourself to try it Tarator – cold yoghurt and cucumber soup.
Meat Dishes Kavarma – meat and vegetable stew, usually served in individual pots Kyufteta – spicy meat balls Kebaptcheta – spicy minced meat, sausage shaped, grilled.
Vegetarian Dishes
Kashkaval (or sirene) pane – fried yellow (or white) cheese Chushki byurek – fried peppers stuffed with egg and cheese Sirene po shopski – white cheese, egg, tomatoes and peppers baked in a pot.
14 Bulgaria in Brief Desserts
Crime
The garash torta is the Bulgarian equivalent of the Sacher Torte, made from eggs, walnuts and cocoa.
Bulgaria has a middle crime rated compared the other European countries. It make good sense to stick with sensible anticrime measures that you would normally carry out in your home country, such as leaving valuables and passports in the hotel safe and being discreet when handling cash in crowded areas. If you are the victim of a crime here, contact local police to report the incident and hire a translator to accompany you to the police station. (& 166) Common European Emergency call number &112 (emergency, police or fire company)
Snacks Snacks (‘zakuska’) are available all over town in tiny shops or from stands on the street. Banitsa – fillo dough pastry filled with white cheese Gevrek – like a very dry bagel, sold from big bags on street corners For the really adventurous, try Boza – a thick malt drink with a distinct smell. (It’s said to be an acquired taste!)
tips Business Days All Government offices are closed on Saturday and Sunday. Most of the private sector companies however have their weekend on Saturday and Sunday too.
National Holidays 1 January – New Year’s Day
Drugs All narcotic substances are illegal in Bulgaria and their possession is punishable by law.
Street Dogs Generally they are harmless and friendly. Should you be unfortunate enough to be bitten, seek medical advice even if the incidence of rabies in the city is minimal.
Ethnic Tolerance
3 March – National Holiday /Bulgaria’s Liberation from the Ottoman Empire/
Bulgaria has long been a model of ethnic tolerance on the Balkans and can be proud of the peaceful coexistence between the various ethnic groups.
1 May – Labour and International Worker’s Solidarity Day
Gay Scene
6 May – Gergyovden (St. George’s Day), and the Bulgarian Army’s Day 24 May – Bulgarian Education and Culture, and Slavic Script Day 6 September – Unification Day 22 September – Independence Day 1 November – Day of the Bulgarian Enlighteners (Holiday for all educational institutions) 24 December – Christmas Eve 25, 26 December – Christmas Days Easter Holidays – 4 days /Good Friday, Holy Saturday, Easter Sunday and Monday
Beggars As in other big cities, Sofia is also a place where one can meet beggars and homeless people. Although they might be disturbing, ignoring them is the most effective way of coping with the situation. On the other hand there are the predominantly gypsy gangs with small babies who usually have to hand over their earnings at the end of the day.
Bulgaria is not a destination well-known for diverse gay and lesbian scenes, but still there is a number of gay-friendly places here and homosexual practices are tolerable by the Bulgarian society. However, Bulgaria has not recognized same-sex couples in its legislation.
Features About Bulgarians • One unique feature is that Bulgarians most often nod for ‘no’ and shake their heads for ‘yes’. Watch out! It can lead to a great confusion. • It is common courtesy to take flowers when invited to someone’s home. These should be an odd number i.e. 3, 5 or 7 stems. 2, 4 or 6 stems are taken only at funerals. • Many public places charge small fees to use their washrooms, usually 0,20-0,50 leva. Some of them still have porcelain ‘squat pots’ instead of real toilets. • Bulgarians are a hospitable nation and they will lay a rich table for you. Do your best not to leave anything on your plate or you will hurt your hostess who has slaved over a hot stove for hours to surprise you. If your hosts have young children, remember to bring a bar of chocolate or some treats for them.
Bulgaria in Brief 15 Seasonal Holidays into the water. It is believed that the first person to reach the cross will be healthy and lucky throughout the forthcoming year. Later the priest goes from house to house sprinkling people with holy water. Besides Bogoyavlenie, this holiday is also called Voditsi and its name unambiguously implies the purifying power of water. Those named Yordan, Yordanka and Bogdan celebrate their name day on January 6th.
7th January – St. Ivan On this day all Bulgarians wish good health and happiness to those named Ivan, Yoan and Yoanna. As a ritual for health people dip their children in barrels full of water while the adults are only
1st January – St. Vasily
splashed with it.
According to tradition, on the first day of the year
17th, 18th January – St. Anton and St. Atanas
people honour St. Vasily. Early in the morning young boys called “sourvakari” perform rituals for good health and rich harvest. They go from house to house wishing people a Happy New Year. On December 31st, maidens put their “kasmeti” (fortune slips) in a copper pot. On January 1st, they gather and start drawing the slips predict-
St. Anton’s Day and St. Atanas’ Day, which are celebrated on January 17th and January 18th, are devoted to the animals in the house. According to tradition, either a black hen or a sheep should be slain. This ritual serves as a votive offering. Also a traditional bread with honey and basil should be
ing who will get married and who will give birth
distributed among the people.
in the following year. As a ritual, the young girls
Those named Anton, Antoaneta, Atanas and Ata-
sing carols and perform a traditional dance called
naska celebrate their name days on these days.
“Vasilino horo”.
21st January – Babinden
Those named Vasil and Vasilka celebrate their name day on January 1st.
Babinden is a holiday devoted to midwives. Early in the morning on January 21st the old women,
2nd January – St. Silvester
called “babi”, visit the children they have deliv-
Those named Silvester, Silvana and Silvia cel-
ered. According to ritual, they have to wash the
ebrate their name day on January 2nd.
child’s face. Then the mother of the child helps
6th January – Bogoyavlenie (Yordanovden)
the midwife wash her hands and gives her a bar
On January 6th people gather near a river, lake
midwifes sit down to a generous table. A flat cake
or any other water basin. The priest performs
with honey, a roasted hen and a bottle of brandy
a service, following which he throws the cross
should be served.
of soap and a towel as a gift. In the evening all
16 Bulgaria in Brief Alphabet Аа Бб Вв Гг Дд Ее Жж Зз Ии Йй Кк Лл Мм Нн Оо
Пп Рр Сс Тт Уу Фф Хх Цц Чч Шш Щщ Ъъ Ьь Юю Яя
p (as in pot) r (as in red) s (as in sit) t (as in tree) u (as in yule) f (as in foot) h (like ’ch‘ in Bach) ts (as in puts) ch (as in check) sh (as in shut) sht (like ’shed‘ in pushed) a (like ’u‘ in but) (consonant soften ing sign) yu (like you) ya (as in yank)
januari fevruari mart april mai yuni
July August September October November December
yuli avgust septemvri oktomvri noemvri dekemvri
ponedelnik vtornik srjada chetvartak
Friday Saturday Sunday
petak sabota nedelja
edno dve tri chetiri pet shest sedem osem devet deset edinadeset dvanadeset trinadeset chetirinadeset petnadeset shestnadeset
17 18 19 20 31 42 53 64 75 86 97 100 1,000 10,000 100,000 1,000,000
sedemnadeset osemnadeset devetnadeset dvadeset trideset i edno chetirideset i dve petdeset i tri shestdeset i chetiri sedemdeset i pet osemdeset i shest devettdeset i sedem sto hiliada deset hiliadi sto hiliadi edin milion
a b v g d e zh z i y k l m n o
(as in cat) (as in bus) (as in very) (as in good) (as in dog) (as in egg) (like’s‘ in leisure) (as in zoo) (as in instant) (as in young) (as in kick) (as in love) (as in marry) (as in no) (as in hot)
Months January February March April May June
Week Days Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday
Numbers 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
Bulgaria in Brief 17 BULGARIAN
SPOKEN
Поздрави
Pozdravi
Добро утро Добър ден Добър вечер Здравейте Как сте? Добре Аз съм добре Благодаря Извинявайте Как се казвате? Къде се намира...?
[Do’bro ‘utro] [‘Dobar ‘den] [‘Dobar ‘vecher] [Zdra’veite] [‘Kak ste?] [Do’bre] [‘Az sam do’bre] [Blagoda’rya] [Izvi’nyavaite] [‘Kak se ‘kazvate?] [Ka’de se na’mira]
Местоположение
Mestopolozhenie
... улица/булевард ... площад/паметник ... пощата/летището ... ресторант ... пазара/аптеката ... хотел ... гарата/автогарата магазин спирка първата/втората пресечка ... наляво ... надясно ... направо
[‘ulitsa/bule’vard ...] [plosh’tad/’pametnik] [‘poshtata/le’tishteto] [resto’rant ...] [pa’zara/ap’tekata] [ho’tel ...] [‘garata/’avto’garata] [maga’zin] [‘spirka] [‘parvata/’vtorata pre’sechka] [na’lyavo] [na’dyasno] [na’pravo]
Пазаруване
Pazaruvane
Колко струва това? Къде мога да купя?... дрехи обувки храна цигари подаръци евтино скъпо
[‘Kolko ‘struva to’va?] [Ka’de ‘moga da ‘kupya?] [‘drehi] [o’buvki] [hra’na] [tsi’gari] [po’daratsi] [‘evtino] [‘skapo]
Храна и напитки
Hrana i napitki
Имате ли меню на английски? предястия основни ястия десерт вегетариански пиле риба свинско телешко картофи ориз kафе чай горещо бира бяло вино червено вино вода Сметката, ако обичате.
[‘Imate li me’nyu na ang’liiski?] [pre’dyastiya] [os’novni ‘yastiya] [de’sert] [vegeta’rianski] [‘pile] [‘riba] [‘svinsko] [‘teleshko] [kar’tofi] [o’riz] [ka’fe] [‘chai] [go’reshto] [‘bira] [‘byalo ‘vino] [cher’veno ‘vino] [vo’da] [‘Smetkata, a’ko o’bichate.]
ENGLISH Greetings Good morning Good day Good evening Hallo How are you? Good I’m all right Thank you Excuse me What’s your name? Where is ...?
Getting Around ...Street/Boulevard ... Square/Monument ... the post/the airport ... restaurant ... ... the market/pharmacy ... hotel ... ... the station/the bus station shop bus/tram stop the first/second intersection... ... on the left ... on the right ... straight ahead
Shopping How much does this cost? Where can I buy?... clothes shoes food cigarettes presents cheap expensive
Eating & Drinking Do you have a menu in English? starters main courses dessert vegetarian chicken fish pork veal / beef potatoes rice coffee tea hot (temp) bier white wine red wine water Can we have the bill, please?
18 BUSINESS IN BG
Turquoise comes from Old French for “Turkish.” Like many Europeans at that time, the French believed that the turquoise stone came from Turkey. It really did arrive in Europe from Turkey because of trade routes, but actually originated in Persia. The French called it the “pierre turquois,” or “Turkish stone.” Situated at the foot of the Vitosha Mountains, Restaurant Turquoise offers for the first time in Bulgaria the culinary magic of Bosphorus – an authentic recipes, prepared by a team of 9 Turkish Master Chefs, selected among the best in the branch. We work only with highquality and fresh products, imported directly from Turkey. We serve our guests with great attention in order to help them savor the unique atmosphere of classic Turkey.
BUSINESS IN BG 19 In TURQUOISE you can taste marvelous Turkish appetizers; incredible bread, toasted in a charcoal oven and powdered with sesame; chorek otu, served just with the winding smoke; exotic salads, flavoured with pomegranatะต sauce and olive oil; great variety of grilled tender meat and kebap and lots of other Turkish specialties. You will also enjoy the best ever Turkish deserts as baklava, kunafa, kazan dibi, ashure, kadaif and many sweet masterpieces of the Bosphorous culinary. Of course, all these delicious meals will go pretty well with the nice Turkish raki. You can put an ending to this exciting journey with a traditional Turkish coffee or tea, served with all our love in those tiny glasses, as seen in wellknown Turkish serials.
90, Bukston Blvd. For reservations phone 02 855 11 00 cell 0878 155070 turquoise.bg
20 overview ACADEMICA 2011
www.academicasport.com
YOUR PLACE TO DO SPORTS We have
• sports halls suitable for over 20 types of sports • football playgrounds for classical as well as for mini-football • indoor and outdoor tennis courts • swimming pool • fitness center • ice rinks
overview 21 If you are a professional athlete or just a sports lover, if you want to stay in shape or vary the routine, if you are a football fan, or love basketball, if volleyball is your game, or you want to swim, or play some tennis, if in the hectic pace of the big city looking for a place to relax from the busy lifestyle and recharge, then at our sports complexes you will find
Office: ACADEMICA Ltd. Geo Milev Distr., Students House - Bl. 3 Entr. A, Fl. 1, phone 02 489 44 73
22 overview SOFIA CITY REGION Population: Area:
1 291 591 1 310,8 sq. km (1.2% of the national territory) Area dialing code: 00 359 2 Main city: Sofia (capital) Sofia population: 1 202 761 The capital city of Bulgaria is situated in the geographic center of Southeastern Europe thus serving as a natural entrance to Middle East. The city is easily accessible being two hours away by plane from the Central European capitals Vienna and Budapest, and providing easy connection to the other big European cities. The tourists and business travellers have a smooth way into the city whose airport services 295 regular flights per week operated by 20 foreign and 6 Bulgarian airlines to about 40 destinations in the world.
Land
The region occupies the central part of the Sofia Plain (with average altitude of 550 m) encircled by the Balkan Mountains (in the north) and the Vitosha Mountain and the Lyulin Mountain (in the south). The area abounds in curative mineral springs (Gorna Banya, Ovcha Kupel, Bankya). The Vitosha Mountain is an international winter sports center.
Climate
The capital city enjoys moderately hot summers, snowy winters and beautiful springs and autumns.
Through the Centuries
Founded seven thousand years ago, Sofia is the second oldest city in Europe. It has been given several names in the course of history and the remnants of the old cities can still be seen today. Serdika was the name of the central dwelling of the ancient Thracian tribe known as “Serdi”. It bore that name when it became part of the Bulgarian state at the beginning of the ninth century and was soon recognised as one of the most important feudal towns, acquiring the Slavic name Sredets. Near Sofia lies Boyana church, which is one of the most valuable memorials of Bulgarian and European culture. The church boasts frescoes, acclaimed by specialists as “the best examples of eastern mediaeval art during its twelve century history”. The decline of Sofia during the Ottoman Empire was followed by the rejuvenation after the liberation in 1879, when Sofia was chosen as the capital of Bulgaria at the First National Constituent Assembly. The plans of 18811882 were followed by a brisk and straight-forward period of construction. In 1900 the City Council approved the emblem of Sofia
Sofia Municipality 33, Moskovska Str. (map E3) & 02 937 73 03 www.sofia.bg and the motto “It Grows but Does not Age”. During the years of the totalitarian regime (9 September 1944 – 10 November 1989) Sofia became the major national economic, academic and cultural centre. From its years of socialist growth, however, the capital inherited a great deal of problems, which are at present the priorities of the democratically – elected council of Sofia.
People, Towns and Culture
The population of Sofia is almost 1,3 million people with high average population density. In the past couple of years the unemployment rate in the city has been the lowest in the country. The workforce in Sofia is highly educated, motivated and flexible. The city creates and develops 80% of the intellectual recourse in the country with 19 universities situated on its territory. Sofia has been the capital of the Republic of Bulgaria since April 3, 1879. It is the permanent seat of the National Assembly (the Parliament), the President, The Council of Ministers, the central governing bodies of various agencies, political parties and public organizations. Sofia accommodates the largest scientific and cultural institutions in Bulgaria.
Economy
Sofia is the biggest and the most dynamic center of the economic life in Bulgaria. The Gross Domestic Product (GDP), generated in Sofia forms 29% of the national GDP. Half of the foreign direct investments in Bulgaria are concentrated in the capital. One third of the annual tax revenues in the national budget come from Sofia. The service sector is far more developed than the production one. Industry plays a secondary role and the most developed sectors are machine tool engineering and metal processing, metallurgy, food and beverage productions, paper and textile industries. The private sector in Sofia is forming 90% of the city economy.
Banks and Exchange
Money can be exchanged safely at most banks and also at reputable exchange bureaux. (Hotels and airports tend to give less favourable rates). Exchange bureaux are required to display clearly the exact exchange rates and they are no longer allowed to charge a commission for money
overview 23 exchange, so check this first. As regards exchange rates, at the time of writing BG lev is worth EURO 1.95583; USD 1.39; GBR 2.24. Banking hours run from 08.30 to 16.30 Monday to Friday. Some are also open till 17.00. Exchange bureaux are usually open from 09.00 until 17.00 or 18.00 and stay open later in the summer. Some of them are open 24 hours throughout the summer. Sofia has plenty of ATMs, with particular concentration in the city center. All major European and North American debit cards are accepted in the country.
Airport Information
For flight information: www.sofia-airport.bg Located 10 km (6 miles) east of the city centre, the busy two-terminal airport is linked to the most of the capitals in the world. The bright, modern and smoke-free Sofia Airport has the capacity to serve 2.5 million passengers. A new “Terminal 2” building, designed with special attention to disabled passengers was opened in December 2006. A large parking lot is located in front of the old terminal building. A new multi-level parking garage providing 820 parking spaces is linked to the departures area of the new passenger terminal. The car parks are open non-stop and parking fee is 2 to 3 leva per hour. Avoid taking airport taxis other than “O.K. Supertrans” providing services to the city centre for BGN 10/ Euro 5. The regular N84 bus line cover the route Sofia Airport–Sofia University. Tickets cost BGN 1.
transport
The names of all streets are written in Cyrillic, which might make finding your bearings harder, therefore if the map is not sufficient, please ask a local to show you the way. In many places around the city centre are erected large billboards with a public transport city map in English, which may also serve as a point of direction. Driving in Sofia maybe a traumatic experience particularly, during rush-hour (8.00-10.00 h and 17.00-19.00 h). Traffic jams are inevitable along the central city roads and the busier peripheral capital boulevards. A common occurrence along the A1 and A2 motorways, and the international E 79 route, are the Friday night and Sunday afternoon queues of traffic as a lot of capital residents drive in and out into the countryside. In the event of an accident, the traffic police (KAT– & 166, 02 982 49 01) should be called and a report filed. The process is lengthy but necessary for any insurance claims. (Check with your car hire company about formalities!) In the event of a breakdown, there is a 24-hour Road Assistance service: & 02 91 146, from cell phone: & 146. The central dispatch office is open 24 hours a day and is located at 3, Pozitano Str. (& 02 980 33 08). English and German are spoken. Charges for towing range are a base fee of Euro 10 plus Euro 1.40 per km. Usual waiting time is between 5 and 30 minutes.
Car Parks
The main car parking areas in the centre are: • Makedonia Sq. • TZUM (Maria Luiza Blvd.) • Corner of Evlogi Georgiev Blvd. and Gurko Str. • Corner of Evlogi Georgiev and Yanko Sakazov Blvd. • Corner of Frityof Nansen and Bulgaria Blvd. (NDK, underground) • NDK (Vitosha Blvd.) You can park for up to 2 hours in the city centre, in the designated “blue zones”: opposite the Parliament, by the National Art Gallery, off Rakovski Street near the Cathedral, etc. The fee for up to one hour parking is 1 lev. Vouchers are usually sold by attendants in these locations and they will help you fill them out. (Please note: some car parks are privately run and prices vary). Use your common sense and don’t park in restricted zones even if everyone else seems to be doing so. Sofia City Council are hot on the heels of their Western counterparts with yellow wheel clamps, and if that’s not bad enough they’ll even tow your car away, usually to the car park near the Hilton Hotel or the one next to the Central Railway Station.
Postal Services Central post station – 6, Gen. Y.V. Gurko Str. (7-20.30h) Main postal rates: small letters - 0.60lv. (for BG) Package (parcels) 0-1kg - 2.15lv. (for BG) 23.70 - 46.90lv.(for EU) to 5kg - 3lv.(for BG), 43.20-179.90lv.(for EU)
Public Transport
Sofia offers cheap and extensive public transport. There are trams, buses, and trolley buses as well as a short section of the city subway (please see map for details) which cover most of the city. There is also a fleet of privately run “Marsh-route taxis”, which covers the more obscure routes. (Ticket price 1.50 lv. Pay the driver as you get on.) Public transport runs daily from 5.30 till 23.00 for buses and trams. Tickets: single use, for any distance on any tram, bus or trolley-bus line. Price: 1 lev. Transit Cards: One day, all lines – 4.00 leva; Five days, all lines – 15.00 leva; One month, all lines – 50.00 leva Single trip tickets are sold at kiosks and newspaper stands at the major stops or by the driver of the vehicle. You have to punch them inside the vehicle (look for the metal punch on the walls). If you transfer you must use another. If your luggage exceeds the size 60x40x40 you have to punch a second ticket. It’s the same if you travel together with your pet. Tickets are inspected at random by conductors. The fine is 20.00 leva.
24 overview Bus Lines
Euro 250. As always, if you are traveling alone you’ll spend much more on accommodation than you would in a group of two or more, most hotels do have single rooms, but they’re fixed at about 70-80 percents of the price of a double. Sofia offers fantastic choice of restaurants at comparatively modest prices. Our recommendation is to avoid the extras and concentrate on the main courses, which start around BGN 10/Euro 5. Tipping at a restaurant is expected – around 10-15 %, even when the service has been dire. Taxi drivers expect a tip too, in the same percentages.
Railway
The city is a pleasant location to live and have fun in. Sofia’s appeal is in its cosmopolitan atmosphere and various opportunities for entertainment and tourism. The citizens and visitors of the city can choose from more than 3000 restaurants, cafes and bars which offer an excellent cuisine and a wide variety of good quality wines. The prices are among the lowest in Europe for sure. (See the Daily cost section above). Sofia is also the focal point of cultural and artistic life in the country and boasts 31 movie theatres, 23 theatres, 27 museums and numerous art galleries and exhibition halls. The city hosts a series of international concerts and festivals with the prices of tickets being significantly lower than in Central and Eastern Europe.
The Central Bus Station is a modern transport complex with covered area 7 173 sq. m. The building is airconditioned and secured. There is also a pharmacy, room for mothers with children, medical center and special equipments for people with disabilities and physical infirmities. Eight shops, a restaurant, cafes and bank branches are situated on the first floor. There are eight toilets and two with features for people with disabilities. At the three up levels are situated carter’s offices. At the ground floor are situated waiting room (1500 sq. m. total area) and 57 ticket desks. About 2 250 travelers per hour pass through the waiting room. The tickets payment can be done cash or by debit and credit cards.
Central Railway Station (Tzentralna Gara), www.bdz.bg This is the main railway station with regular daily services to Bulgaria’s main cities, towns and abroad. Train travel is relatively cheap if you are prepared to put up with longer travelling times but for those who feel daunted driving–it is a more relaxing way to see the country. First class is quite affordable. You must book your seats.
Taxi
OK Taxi: & 02 973 21 21 1 Euro Taxi & 02 962 22 26 All legal and registered taxi cabs must be yellow and operate by meter. Rates per km (between 0.56 – 0.79 leva), any starting and call-out charges must by law be displayed on the windows.
Entertainment
Travellers with Disabilities Medical Services Sofia isn’t one of the best places in the world to visit if you have mobility problems or other physical disabilities. Although all public buildings are required to be wheelchair-accessible and provide suitable toilet facilities, this is still a matter of future.
Daily Cost
By Western European standards, Sofia is very reasonable priced, with most basic items – from food to clothing. As for dining and drinking, the sheer number of restaurants and bars keeps prices down. On the other hand, accommodation in Sofia is generally more expensive than in the rest of the country and prices are analogous to the average European ones. If you are prepared to buy your own lunch, stay in hostels and stick to the least expensive bars and restaurants, you could scrape by on around BGN 70/ Euro 35. Staying in a good B&B, eating out in mediumrange restaurants more nights and drinking often in bars, you’ll go through at least BGN 150/Euro 75. If you are planning to stay in the best hotels and to have a big night out, expect to spend at least BGN 500/
Take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance to cover the full period of your stay in the country. If you are EU citizen, you need to take a EHIC with you. The card gives access to state-provided medical treatment only. You will not be covered for medical repatriation, on-going medical treatment or treatment of a non-urgent nature. Standards of medical care are excellent. The Accident and Emergency Hospital for Sofia is the Pirogov hospital at 21, Gen. Totleben Blvd., opposite the Rodina Hotel (& 02 915 44 11). There is a ward for foreigners in the University Hospital “Sv. Anna” in Mladost-1 (& 02 975 90 00). Your Embassy may be able to refer you to a doctor who speaks your language. For emergencies: Ambulance: & 150 Other useful numbers: 24-hour pharmacies: & 178 Private polyclinics: IMC & 02 944 93 26, Vita & 02 943 43 98, Thorax & 02 912 85
overview 25
1908 Gallery 1, Angel Kanchev Str. cell: 0898 646 490 Tue - Sat: 12.00 - 19.00 1908gallery@gmail.com facebook 1908.bg
26 overview
WALKING TOUR
DISCOVER SOFIA IN 60 MINUTES
9.
In the previous edition in 60 minutes we guided you through some of the most significant places across Sofia.
9.
This month our tour continues with several more intriguing places of interest which one must see, among the many other sights in Sofia.
1 We are starting with a visit to the church “St. Nikolay Chudotvoretz” (St. Nicholas the Miracle-Maker), also known as the Russian Church, which was built 1913. In the crypt of the church is the sepulchre of Arch- 8 bishop Seraphim, referred to as the miracle-maker. The church has five small gilded domes, and a 19 meters high central dome. The church bells are a donation from the Russian Tsar Nicholas II (1868-1918).
2 In a very close vicinity to the church is the building of the Military club, erected in 1907. By itsside is Rakovski street along which we gradually walk on to the intersection with Moscovska street, where the oldest residential building of cooperative ownership is situated.
3 It is called House “Saint Sofia” and was built back in 1929. Part of street 9.
Moscovska is covered with thefamous yellow pavement, donated by Emperor Franz Joseph of Tsar Ferdinand.
7
18
2 6
8
4
1 3
2
5
16
overview 27 4 5 From here we continue our trip, leaving the church St. Sofia and Alexander Nevski Cathedral on our right. 6 Walking along Rakovski street we reach the building of the Opera, which had been designed in 1921, but was completed in 1953. 7 Then on Dondoukov Boulevard we turn right and walk straight, until we get to the Roman amphitheater of Sofia – the Arena of the Serdica amphitheater. It is 60.5 m long and 43 m wide, only 10 meters smaller than the Coliseum, and used to gather more that 20 000 spectators.
8 Finally we take the small street, called Budapest, and we are off to the former royal palace of Bulgaria, situated in downtown Sofia, at Battenberg square. This is our last stop and the place from where, next month, our tour will take you to even more interesting and full of history sights.
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 Please note: Number of stars according to the Bulgarian classification
hotels
1, Gen. Yosif V. Gurko Str.
h 15 map D3
& 02 811 08 11
Public transport:
fax: 02 811 08 01
Tb-9; Tm-12,17
Reservations: & 02 811 08 00
111, Alexandar Malinov Blvd.
h 36 map back
& 02 807 07 07
Public transport:
fax: 02 807 07 08
B-413,113,213, 214
e-mail:info@holidayinnsofia.bg www.hisofiahotel.com
e-mail: reservations@grandhotelsofia.bg
Room rates: from EURO 70.00
Room rates: EURO 150-235 Located in the very city center, overlooking the City garden on the doorstep of the National Theatre and the City Art Gallery. The hotel features 105 unique spacious rooms of over 50 sq.m. At guest’s disposal are also 17 comfortable oversized suites including 2 Grand suites and 3 Panorama suites with balcony, providing the finest lodging in Sofia. All rooms have air condition with
The hotel offers luxurious bedrooms with flat screen television, Hi-speed & Wi-Fi internet access & separate bath & shower. International Executive Chef providing variety of dining experiences ranging from informal all day Brasserie to “InCanto” Fine Dining offering Mediterranean Cuisine. 9 state of art conference suites for between 10 to 300 delegates at highly competitive
individually controlled temperature, satellite and pay
rates. ESPRIT Fitness & Spa including 19 m indoor
TV, inroom safe and electronic lock system, separate
swimming pool & gym with latest “Technogym” equip-
bathtub and shower cabin, bathroom telephone. Direct
ment. In close proximity to airport and downtown.
international dial telephones, voicemail messaging and
Substantial parking available. 130 rooms (116 double/
high speed Internet access. Conference facilities seat-
twin/ 10 Executive/ 4 Suites).
ing from 10 to 150, gourmet restaurant, café, lobby bar, cigar bar, piano bar, health centre, indoor parking.
Kempinski Hotel Zografski Sofia
Hilton Sofia
100, J. Bourchier Blvd. & 02 969 22 22, 02 969 22 33
1, Bulgaria Blvd. & 02 933 50 00 fax: 02 933 51 11
h 4 map C6
Public transport: B-72, 604, 76, 94
h 1 map C8 Public transport:
fax: 02 969 22 23
Tm-9
02 969 22 34 e-mail: reservations.zografski@kempinski.com
The 8-storey urban business hotel is centrally located
www.kempinski.bg
e-mail: Reservations.Sofia@hilton.com
Room rates: EURO 85
Room rates: EURO 140-275 with easy car access.
Situated on posh Lozenets hill overlooking the bustling
245 rooms (includes 54 executive & 17 suites), non-
city and with a panoramic view on Vitosha Mountain.
smoking rooms, fitness centre, swimming pool. Enjoy
446 rooms and suites, 4 restaurants, 3 bars, most
award-winning cuisine and mountain views at Seasons
extensive catering facilities in Sofia, pool & fitness,
Restaurant or pampering at the Health Club or beauty
bowling alley, shopping arcade, casino, landscaped
salon.
party gardens. Comprehensive 5-star services.
Accommodation Accommodation 29
Radisson BLU Grand Hotel
Sheraton Sofia Hotel Balkan
4, Narodno Sabranie Sq. h 7 map E4 & 02 933 43 33 Public transport: fax: 02 933 43 35 Metro e-mail:info.sofia@radissonblu.com www.sofia.radissonblu.com Room rates: EURO 120 - 145 Enviably located in the most attractive part of the city centre, on the famous yellow paved square, overlooking Parliament and Alexander Nevski Cathedral. The hotel is in close proximity to the business district as well as many of Sofia’s captivating tourist attractions, making it ideal for business and leisure travellers. 136 rooms, including Economy, Standard, Superior, Business Class rooms & suits and Junior suits, nonsmoking rooms and rooms with facilities for handicapped people. All they are equipped with high-quality amenities including Free wireless Internet access (WiFi). Fitness Center, Restaurant & Bar on Mezzanine, Irish Flannagans Bar, in-house London Casino. The seven fully-equipped meeting halls accommodate business meetings or special events for 400 guests.
5, Sveta Nedelya Sq. h 3 map C3 & 02 981 65 41 Public transport: fax: 02 980 64 64 Metro; Tm-9,10, 12, 18 e-mail: sofia.sheraton@luxurycollection.com Room rates: EURO 135 - 225 Located in the heart of Sofia, it is ideally situated just a stroll from the business and commercial district. Recognized as one of the city’s grandest hotels and architectural landmarks, the Sheraton Sofia offers guests an exceptional experience of Bulgaria’s finest culture and service. Archways of ceiling-high columns, distinctly constructed doors and moldings, and imported Italian marble floors outline the lobby of the hotel. Offers 184 splendid, soundproof 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, shopping, hairdresser/ beauty salon, 24-hour concierge and room service, butler service, laundry, and dry cleaning available seven days a week.
30 Accommodation
les fleurs 21, Vitosha Blvd. h 33 map C4 & 02 810 08 00 Public transport: fax: 02 810 08 01 Tm-1,7 Room rates: EURO 130-250 www.lesfleurshotel.com Situated in the heart of Sofia’s main shopping, business and historical attractions. The hotel features exquisite decor, intuitive service and an extraordinary blend of luxury and convenience in style with its floral surroundings. Hotel offers a floral setting of unmistakable grandeur, ideal for business or leisure.A panoramic lift leads to 31 room across 7 floors. For the culinary at heart, Le Bouquet Restaurant offers delicious food,great stakes and has a special wine selection.
HOTEL
6, StaraPlus Planina Str. Best Western City Hotel Sofia phone +359 2 915 15 00 cell +359 885 650 665 www.sofiacityhotel.com reservations@sofiacityhotel.com
6, Stara Planina Str. h 12 map E2 Enjoy your stay! & 02 915 15 00 Public transport: fax: 02 986 20 00 Tm-20,22 office@sofiacityhotel.com Metro www.sofiacityhotel.com Room rates: EURO 69-169 First-class hotel right in the city centre, close to the Sofia Opera House. 61 air-conditioned rooms and suites, Internet access, lobby bar, restaurant, 2 conference rooms, currency exchange office, sauna, massage center, hair-dresser, laundry, dry-cleaning and summer garden.
Best Western Hotel Expo 149, Tsarigradsko Shose Blvd. h30, map back & 02 817 81 00 Public transport: fax: 02 974 30 90 B-114, 1, 2, 3 e-mail: reservations@hotelexposofia.com www.hotelexposofia.com Room rates: EURO 103-183 Located only 7 minutes from the Sofia Airport and City Center, and a step away from the Inter Expo
Center, the hotel offers a wide range of facilities and services. 90 luxurious bedrooms and 9 exclusively decorated suites, equipped with: mini bar, direct dial telephone, Wi-Fi Internet, satellite TV, self-controlled air-conditioning, in-room safe, bathtub, hairdryer and telephone in the bathroom. Free hot drinks in the room. Non-smoking floors. Four meetings rooms, Lobby and Mezzanine Bars, Restaurant, Fitness Center, Casino.
Best Western Premier Thracia Hotel 30, Solunska Str. h 45 map B4 & 02 801 79 00 Public transport: fax: 02 801 79 79 Tm-1,7 e-mail: reservations@thraciahotel.com www.thraciahotel.com Room rates: EURO 109-240 Situated in the most prestigious area, amid the wonderful cafés and shops, major business areas and tourist attractions in Sofia, the newly smart hotel is a perfect example of the very best in Premier Hotel style. Elegant, sophisticated and chic, Best Western Premier Thracia Hotel’s public areas are urbane and witty. The hotel’s 43 opulent guestrooms and five delightful suites are with stylish and comfortable Italian furniture, elegant curtains and bed spreads, and soft, noise absorbing carpeting in the rooms and the corridors. Some of our suites are equipped with private terraces with wonderful view on the roofs of Sofia and Vitosha Mountain.
Casa Boyana Boutique 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: hotel@casaboyana.com 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 Jacuzzi, splendid city or mountain view.Restaurant, BBQ Garden, Lobby Bar, Sport Club – fitness, sauna, massages, free outdoor parking lot, full internet access, Business Hall.
Accommodation 31
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 êêêêê Grand Hotel Sofia Hilton Hotel Holiday Inn Sofia Kempinski Hotel Zografski Les Fleurs Hotel Sheraton
êêêê Best Western Hotel Expo Best Western City Hotel Plus Best Western Pemier Thracia Hotel Casa Boyana Hotel Central Park Hotel
HOSTELS
Be My Guest Hostel Canape Connection Trakia Guesthouse
APARTMENT RENTALS Apartment House Sofia Anima M Real Estate Dunav Apartment Hotel Prime VIP Appartments
Holliday Village Diplomat Lion Hotel Meg-Lozenetz Hotel Niky Hotel Park Hotel Moskva Rotosar Hotel Sofia Place Hotel Villa Boyana
Dedeman Princess Hotel Downtown Hotel Maria Luisa Hotel Novotel Sofia -New Rodina Hotel
êêê Accord Hotel Amfora Hotel Atre Hotel Astra Hotel Budapest Hotel California Hotel Diter Hotel Favorit Hotel Hemus Hotel
êê The House Simona
ê easyHotel Madrid Pop Bogomil
SUBSCRIPTION OTHERS DIPLOMATIC MISSIONS: Airport Sofia - Terminals 1, 2 Brazil Canada Czech Republic Germany Hungary Korea Netherlands Switzerland USA
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Airport Sofia - Terminals 1, 2
Inter Expo Center
Information Center Sofia
phone 02 980 85 01, cell 0896 717 225, sofiacityguide@gmail.com
WWW.CITYINFOGUIDE.NET
32 Accommodation
106, Vitosha Blvd.
h 43 map B5
& 02 805 81 81
Public transport:
fax: 02 805 87 8
Tm-1,7
Reservations: & 02 805 88 88
27, Vasil Levski Blvd. & 02 930 52 00 fax: 02 930 53 00 hotel@hotel-downtown.net
h 17 map C5 Public transport: B-94, Tb-9,1, 2, 5, 8 GPS: N 42.696895,
www.hotel-downtown.net
e-mail: reservations@centralparkhotel.bg
E 23.319111
Conveniently located in the very city center, near the
www.centralparkhotel.bg
National Palace of Culture, minutes away from the
Room rates: EURO 150-220
major business, financial and cultural sites, shop-
A new hotel in the heart of the city, close at hand to the
ping areas and tourist attractions, the boutique hotel
National Palace of Culture and the finest shopping area
Downtown offers a perfect setting for business and
of Sofia. 74 elegantly appointed rooms (8 single, 60
leisure.
double/twin, 6 DeLuxe) with free high speed internet
59 air-conditioned, non-smoking guest rooms, includ-
access. 3 Panorama suites with splendid view on Vitosha mountain and the central city square. 2 nonsmoking floors available. 2 conference halls with 40 and 70 seats, Business centre, Restaurant, Lobby bar.
131, Kn. Maria Luiza Blvd.
h 13 map C0
& 02 933 88 88
Public transport:
fax: 02 933 87 77
B-60,78,213,305,404
www.dedeman.com
Tm-3,9,18
e-mail: reservation.sofia@dedeman.com
ing 12 suites, all being a harmonious 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, solarium and massage for maximum guest comfort.
29, Knyaginya Maria Luiza Blvd.
h 9 map C3
& 02 980 55 77
Public transport:
fax: 02 980 33 55
Metro; Tm-20,22
e-mail: reservations@marialuisa-bg.com www.marialuisa-bg.com Room rates: EURO 75-135
Room rates: EURO 93-114
The Maria Luisa hotel occupies an exquisite build-
The traditional Dedeman hospitality meets with its
ing dating back to the turn of the last century and
guest at Dedeman Princess Sofia. 601 rooms enjoys a
considered one of the national cultural monuments. It
superlative position right in downtown facing the most
is situated in the very heart of Sofia in close proxim-
atractive local historical attraction. The hotel has 564
ity to significant business and administrative centers,
air-conditioned twin and single rooms, 20 connected
Ministries and Central shop markets. 15 rooms, 5
rooms and 13 suites, 1 Presidential Suite, 3 Disabled
suites, restaurant, lobby bar, business centre, parking.
Room. Meridien Restaurant, Lobby Bar, Lobby patis-
All rooms are beautifully appointed, with luxury in-
serie. Indoor swimming pool, fitness centre. 7 multi-
suite bathrooms, cable TV, audio equipment, direct
function conference halls. Casino “Princess�.
telephone connection, internet access.
Accommodation 33 e-mail: reservations@hotel-astra.bg www.hotel-astra.bg Hotel The complex is located in a tranquil but a communicative area, in close proximity to Vladimir Vazov Blvd. and the main roads to Burgas and Varna.
Novotel Sofia 115N Tsarigradsko Shosse Blvd. h 55 map back &/Fax +359 290 43 000 Public transport: www.novotel.com Metro; B-84, 204, 604 Novotel Sofia is ideally located in one of the most important business districts of Sofia and is only 10 min from the historical city center and the airport. This new 4-star hotel is adjacent to The Mall, Sofia’s biggest shopping and entertainment center. Either you come for business, for a meeting or with your family, you will be fascinated by the modern atmosphere and functionality of its design. WIFI is free of charge in all hotel spaces. Take advantage of the restaurant and the bar or relax in our fitness where massages are also available. Parking is free for all hotel guests.
The complex has a modern equipped conference hall with capacity of 50 people, designed for the organization of conferences and special events. Astra Hotel offers to its guests 50 rooms Room rates: EURO 55-90 The price includes breakfast, VAT, insurance and tourist fee. The restaurant is the preferred setting for holding weddings, banquets, business cocktailparties, private celebrations and parties. The Hotel offers excellent conditions for the organization of meetings and events.
5, Knyaz Al. Dondukov Blvd. & 02 402 71 00, 02 402 71 12 fax: 02 402 71 09 409, Tsar Boris III Blvd. h 37 map back Knyazhevo Distr. Public transport: & 02 957 15 09 B-58,59 fax: 02 857 06 61 cell: 0888 81 89 38 www.hotelamfora.dir.bg Room rates: EURO 20 (Suites: EURO 70) 14 rooms and 3 suites. The Amphora family 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.
108, Besarabia Str. 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
h 11 map D3 Public transport: Tm-20, 22
www.artehotelbg.com Room rates: Euro 110-130 Just around the corner of the Presidency and the Ministry Council buildings. The guests live together with Bulgarian art & world’s classical music masterpieces. The chamber-size restaurant with 50 seats provides sophisticated Italian food and artistic atmosphere.
California 30, Bigla Str. h 48 map D9 Lozenets Distr. Public transport: & 02 962 93 00 Tm-9; B-88, 120 fax: 02 962 55 42 e-mail: hotel_california@mail.bg www.hotelcaliforniasofia.com Room rates: EURO 40-84 (weekend, long stay discounts) 1 km away from NDK. 14 standard rooms, 4 deluxe rooms, 3 superior deluxe rooms, 3 suites, 1 penthouse. All bathrooms equipped with Jacuzzi, some with steam shower. Sauna, ADSL, Internet access. Tavern in traditional Bulgarian style, lobby-bar. Credit cards accepted.
34 Accommodation
65, Han Asparuh Str. h 49 map C5 & /fax 02 989 89 98 Public transport: e-mail: hotel@diterhotel.com Tb-9 www.diterhotel.com Room rates: EURO 55-75 /incl. all taxes, buffet breakfast, internet and parking/ Book online and save 10% on regular prices! Located in the best part of the centre of Sofia. Within walking distance of government and state institutions, major banks and offices, theatres, museums, churches, exhibition halls and other places of cultural interest. 2 suites and 19 rooms /7 singles, 6 twins, 6 doubles/ provide the best facilities for the successful business trip. Electronic key card access, free internet connection, in-room safe, air-conditioner, anti-fire control system, central heating, elevator, direct telephone dial, cable TV, french bed - King-size, double or twin bed, non-allergic pillows, carpets and mattresses, writing desk, fully stocked mini-bar, a special room equipped with a bed, chair and bath-tub for a baby. The bathrooms comprise hair dryer, shower cabin with water massage, panic button, slippers, bathrobe, variety of cosmetics amenities and everything necessary for your stay. Restaurant with 75 seats & Garden with 40 seats offer international cuisine. Conference room-20 seats.
Favorit Hotel
31, Cherni Vrah Blvd.
h 8 map C7
& 02 816 50 00
Public transport:
fax: 02 963 42 80 cell: 0885 466 778
B-94,102; Tm-6, 9
e-mail: marketing@hemushotels.com info@hemushotels.com www.hemushotels.com Room rates: EURO 30-76 Located in the heart of Sofia the renovated hotel offers an ideal accommodation base for the corporate and leisure client alike. 210 rooms, 14 small suites “HEMUS” and 6 VIP-apartments. Meeting facilities /two meetingrooms/, business center, casino, night club, bank office, hairdressers’ and beauty saloon, Wi-Fi Internet connection, Sushi Panorama Restaurant, shops. Non-guarded on-site parking.
Holiday Village Diplomat
51, Nikola Petkov Blvd.
h 60 map back
& 02 915 77 77
Public transport:
fax: 02 915 77 56
B-260, 111
Restaurant reservation: 02 915 77 87 Tennis courts reservations: www.gloriapalace.net reservation@gloriapalace.net
193, Knyaz Boris I Str. & + 359 2 931 93 91 fax + 359 2 803 50 43
h 52 map C0
Room rates: EURO 33-116
Public transport: Metro, B-213,214
Holiday Village Diplomat is part of Gloria Palace
cell: + 359 885 85 89 85 info@hotelfavorit.bg www.hotelfavorit.bg The newly opened Hotel Favorit is situated on a quiet street in downtown Sofia - close to Lavov Most metro station and at a walking distance from the Central Bus and Railway Stations. The hotel offers a warm and cosy atmosphere in 19 rooms and 5 suites elegantly furnished and comfortable. They come with free Internet, flat-screen cable TV, air conditioning, central heating, private bathroom and a minibar. Stylish restaurant.
hotel boasts 10 semi-detached villas, 5 standard rooms
Diplomatic Club close to the Vitosha mountain. The and 3 suites. The restaurant which affronts a spectacular view to the park, semi-detached villas, 5 standard rooms and 3 suites. The restaurant which affronts a spectacular view to the park, seats 150 with further 50 seats in the VIP hall with a fireplace. The sport complex includes four red-clay tennis courts, soccer playground, outdoor swimming pool, a basketball playground, a gym, sauna and massage room.
Accommodation 35 Lion Hotel 60, Kn. Maria Luiza Blvd. h 14 map D1 &/fax: 02 917 84 00 Public transport: www.hotel-lion.net B-11, 78, 85, 305, 413 Room rates: EURO 58-96 Luxury and coziness in the heart of Sofia. 33 rooms each featuring air-conditioning, separate bathroom, cable TV, direct dial telephone, Internet, mini-bar. Pizza - Bar Lion. A combination of reasonable prices, high comfort and accessible stylishness.
Meg-Lozenetz
84, Krum Popov Str. h 26 map C7 & 02 965 19 70 Public transport: fax: 02 965 19 71 Tm-6,9; B-94 & 02 963 35 23 (restaurant) e-mail: reservation@meg-lozenetz.com www.meg-lozenetz.com Room rates: EURO 75-150 It is in the close proximity to the National Palace of Culture and to the shopping area of the “Vitosha” boulevard, just 15 minutes by car from Sofia Airport. The hotel has 17 luxury furnished double and triple rooms. Rooms offer internet connection, AC, mini bar, IDD phone, TV, own heating, room service. Restaurant, international cuisine, newly opened lobby bar with special menu, parking.
16, Neofit Rilski Str. h 27 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: office@hotel-niky.com 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 bulgarian cuisine.
25, Nezabravka Str. h 28 map G8 & 02 971 10 24 Public transport: fax: 02 963 20 41B-413; Metro www.parkhotelmoskva.net e-mail: marketing@parkhotelmoskva.net Room rates: EURO 63-83 Located in the greenest part of Sofia – Borisovata Gradina (The Boris’s Garden). The unique park view, a convenient infrastructure and a high quality service make it suitable not only for large scale business events but also for a refreshing stay in the capital of Bulgaria. The hotel offers 354 rooms (572 beds). Three restaurants, congress centre with 7 modern equipped halls and an open-air parking lot are available for the guests.
Rotasar Liditse Str. & Kosta Lulchev Str. h 42 map back & 02 971 45 71 Public transport: e-mail: hotel@rotasar.com B-72; Tb-4,8 rotasar@abv.bg www.rotasar.com Room rates: EURO 30-50 Small modern hotel, situated in a reputable residential area, not far from Tzarigradsko Shosse. 8 suites, 12 rooms, restaurant. Credit cards accepted – Visa, Eurocard, Electron.
29, Hristo Belchev Str. h 25 map C4 & + 359 2 4811400 Public transport: fax: + 359 2 4811401 Tb-1, 2, 5, 8, 9 reservation@sofiaplacehotel.com www.sofiaplacehotel.com Room rates: EURO 50 – 90 Located in the heart of the city, near the major business and shopping centres as well as cultural monuments Sofia Place Hotel offers 20 modern designed rooms equipped with telephone, mini bar, air-condition, Wi Fi, cable TV and central heating. But our best quality is the staff! Personal attention to every guest is our “speciality”!
36 Accommodation
Boyana District, 5, Sborishte Sq. h 22 map back &/fax: 02 959 05 29 Public transport: www.villa-boyana.com B-107, 64 e-mail: villa.boyana@mail.bg Room rates: EURO 40-50 Located in the middle of Boyana village, a few 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.
SIMONA Serdika Distr. 10, Inzh. Ivan Ivanov Blvd. & +359 2 478 0401 cell: +359 885 259 098 www.en.hotelsimona.com Simona Hotel – quality service
easyHotel Sofia- LOW COST
108, Aldomirovska Str. h 39 map back /Todor Alexandrov Blvd./ Public transport: & 02 920 16 54 Metro, Tm 3. 8,10 fax: 02 822 82 15 e-mail: enquiries@sofia.easyhotel.com www.easyhotel-sofia.bg www.easyhotel.com Room rates: EURO 19 - 34 EUReasyHotel Sofia is part of the British BUDJET hotel chain easyHotel. com, which is unique for offering modern facilities and impeccable service at unusually low rates. The brand new hotel is on just 5 minutes walk from the beating heart of central Sofia. All the 57 rooms (48 small, 8 standard, 1 special needs room) are with windows, bathroom, double bed, TV, Wi-Fi, air-conditioning. The earlier you book, the less you pay. Check in-3.00pm; Check Out-10.00am; Check best rates and book at www.easyhotel.com
h 32 map back Public transport: Tm - 11,19, 29 B - 60, 72
at competitive prices.
4, Verila Str. h 21 map B5 & 02 952 08 30 Public transport: &/fax: 02 951 57 60 Tm-6; Tb-1, 2, 5, 8, 9 cell: 0886 51 35 82 e-mail: kashtata@gmail.com www.hotelthehouse.com Rooms rates: EURO 31-43 Located in the very heart of Sofia next to the National Palace of Culture. All rooms are designed according to European standards - air-conditioning, separate bath-room, cable TV, Wi-Fi, refrigerator.Equipped with telephone, air-conditioning, cable TV, central heating, free internet access.rooms, wireless internet, cable TV, air-conditioning.
12, Dragovitsa Str. h 34 map back & 02 944 89 52 Public transport: fax: 02 943 34 71 B-11,305,413,72 e-mail: hotel@madridbg.com 404; Tm-20,22 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.
Pop Bogomil 5, Pop Bogomil Str. h 29 map D1 & 02 983 11 65 Public transport: fax: 02 983 70 65 Tb-9, 6, 7; B-53, 309 cell: 0886 953 582 e-mail: hotelpopbogomil@dir.bg Room rates: EURO 30-35
Accommodation 37 Tzar Asen Family Hotel 68, Tsar Asen Str. h 23 map B5 & 02 954 78 01, 02 851 70 46 Public transport: cell: 0888 751 738 Tb-1, 2, 5, 8 e-mail: tzar_asen@abv.bg www.hotel-tzar-asen.hit.bg A small family hotel near NDK. 5 double rooms, 2 bed
Hostels Be My Guest Hostel 13, Ivan Vazov Str. h 44 map D4 & 02 989 50 92, 02 980 21 42 Public transport: fax: 02 989 00 92 Tb-9, 1, 2, 5, 8 cell: 0889 979 749 Tm-12, 18 e-mail: bemyguest@abv.bg www.bemyguesthostel.com Room rates: EURO 10-15 Shared and private rooms ensuite. Located just behind the “Ivan Vazov“National Theater. Easily accessible from the airport by bus number 84 or taxi, and from central bus and railway station by tram number 18 and 12.If you are looking for simple, comfortable and clean accommodation, then this hostel is the place for you.
30, Nikolay V. Gogol Str. h 51 Map G 4 cell: +359 888 897 321 Public transport: guests@trakiahouse.com Metro, B – 72,84 www.trakiahouse.com 213,604; Tb - 4, 5,8 Small & charming guesthouse, located in the city center - 10 minutes from the Cathedral “Al. Nevski”. You will enjoy a cozy atmosphere in art style and feel like at home. Extras: cable TV, free Wi-Fi, fully equipped kitchen. Credit cards accepted – VISA, DC, MC. Other services: rent-a-car, bus tickets, one-day-trips, mountain guide in English and German. Rates: 12-15 EUR / Bed
Apartment Rentals
4, Golo Bardo Str. Lozenets Distr. & 02 960 28 88 fax: 02 960 28 37 e-mail: info@aphouse-sofia.com www.aphouse-sofia.com Rates: EURO 100-200
h 46 map back Public transport: Tm-9
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 buildings of the public institutions. It offers 14 apatments, all equipped with kitchens, direct telephone, Internet access, laundry, dry-cleaning, cable TV, air-conditioning, security guaranteed. Credit cards accepted.
40, Antim I Str. map B2 & +359 2 490 2435 Public transport: cell: +359 879 122 133 Metro, Tm 20,22 e-mail: v@PrimeRentalsBG.com www.PrimeRenalsBG.com Situated in different locations close to Sofia’s main attractions, the cozy and comfortable Prime Rentals in Sofia provide excellent, newly renovated accommodation paired with independence and privacy of your own apartment that combine communicative locality and stylish interior. With a taste of luxury, away from the vanity of the expensive hotels, we are offering you a cozy home environment during your business travel or vacation.
VIP Apartments Sofia 28, Neofit Rilski Str. h 53 map B4 & +359 2 989 59 69 Public transport: cell +359 896 865 800/ 801 Tb 1,2 5,8,9 www.vipapartsofia.com info@vipapartsofia.com VIP Apartments Sofia – book online fully furnished serviced apartments and get a 60-80sq.m. flat for the price of a hotel room. Excellent value for money, homely environment, free Wi-Fi, DVD, cable TV, A/C. Rila Monastery Shuttle, tours and transfers provided.
Real Estate Agencies Anima-M Ltd. 75, Patriarh Evtimiy Blvd. map B5 & 02 852 06 53, &/fax: 02 953 17 66 cell: 0888 839 516 anima_m@realtor.bg;office@anima-mbg.com www.anima-mbg.com
38 bars & restaurants
LA PASTARIA – LOZENETS
56, Bigla Str. Lozenets Distr. phone: 02 962 32 75 cell: + 359 89 550 06 06 open: 11.00 - 24.00
LA PASTARIA – SOPHARMA
5, Lachezar Stanchev Str., Iztok Distr. Sopharma Business Towers Shopping Center, ground floor phone: 02 967 66 21 cell: +359 89 550 06 05 open: 08.00 – 24.00
www.lapastaria.net www.facebook.com/RestaurantsLaPastaria
bars & restaurants 39
La Pastaria is designed to capture the hospitable atmosphere of an Italian restaurant the way you will like it. Whether a simple everyday lunch, a family or a business dinner La Pastaria chefs pay attention to every dish and use only fresh and high-quality products regarded to the classic Italian culinary and the modern nutritional recommendations.
We are expecting You!
40 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
Local and International The House
RESTAURANT AQUARIUM Aquarium
ss
4, Verila Str. (map B5) & 02 952 08 30, 02 951 57 60
s
cell: 0888 800 376
17, Denkoglu Str. (map B3)
Open: 12.00-24.00
For reservations:
No matter which of the main dining areas you sit in at
cell: 0882 484 599
this friendly and comfy house, you’ll receive amiable
www.restorantaquarium.com
service and variety of tasty treats.
Aquarium Restaurant is designed in an unusual and not very typical for Sofia, style, with very interesting interior solutions.
Topolite
s
This unique design is combined with diverse choice of
26, Simeonovsko shose Blvd. (map back)
foods from the Mediterranean and European cuisine.
For reservations:
Dishes are prepared from high quality fresh products,
& 02 8621 187
following the rules of most elaborate culinary tradi-
cell: 0879 113 574, 0878 335 886
tions. You will have the opportunity to enjoy a variety
topolite_kib@abv.bg
of salads, fish, squids, meats and desserts prepared
Open: 10:00 - 24:00
by our chefs.
Restaurant-garden “Topolite” delights its visitors for
Our sophisticated dishes will be a real pleasure for you
more than 50 years. Simple and classy, the style of the
and your friends.
restaurant is suitable for business meetings, lunch or dinner in a quiet atmosphere, romantic dates, sophisti-
Concept
s
cated parties, weddings and family gatherings.
12, Ivan Vazov Str. (map D4)
Restaurant “ Topolite” has 140 seats in its indoor area.
cell: 0893 414 412
Another 100 seats are at guests’ disposal in the garden
& 02 981 60 80
of the restaurant, which is surrounded by cypress trees,
www.conceptrestaurant.bg
tall poplars, greenery and flowers.
Credit cards: accepted
The garden has also an outdoor BBQ and a children playground. For clients’ convenience the restaurant has its own parking.
Plana Restaurant
s
Bar & Dining
85, Inzh. Ivan Ivanov Blvd.
Club of Architect
& +359 2 920 03 90
11, Krakra Str. (map F4)
cell: +359 2 920 08 65
Open: 12.00-24.00
www.hotelplana.com
cell: 0888 880 979
The restaurant has cozy atmosphere, excellent service
Offers great variety of European cuisine: interest salad,
and varied cuisine. The garden, with its freshness and
dishes, desserts & rich list of wine.
exotic is a perfect place for a nice lunch or dinner,
Summer & winter garden: 110 seats
business meetings and organization of cocktails.
Credit cards: accepted
ss
bars & restaurants 41
42 bars & restaurants Capri Restaurant For reservatios: s 0882 24 34 73 resetorantcapri@abv.bg www.capribg.com Capri Restaurant offers Mediterranean and Greek cuisine. The restaurant has 100 seats inside and 100 seats in the summer garden. Open: 08.00-24.000
Olive’s
ss
12, Graf Ignatiev Str. (map C4) & 02 986 09 02 75, Vasil Levski Blvd. (map E4) cell: 0885 654 837 Open: 10.00-24.00 www.olives.bg This trendy split-level setting, accented by turn-of-thecentury posters attracts young crowd. Pretty good food at affordable prices.
Beerhouse
www.happy.bg www.dostavka.happy.bg 0700 19 000 s 145, G. S. Rakovski Str. (map D4) cell: 0888 181 071 4, Sveta Nedelya Sq. (map C3) cell: 0888 181 070 Mladost 3 Distr., Complex Asko Denitsa (map back) cell: 0888 181 072 Mall of Sofia, floor 3 (map A2) cell: 0886 666 029 Bakston Distr., 53,Todor Kableshkov Blvd. (map back) cell: 0884 990 914 36, Bogatitsa Str. (map B9) cell: 0888 181 068 12-14, P.Slaveykov Blvd. cell: 0884 990 919 6, Jawaharlal Nehru Blvd. cell: 0884 805050
Die alte Lampe
La Cubanita
Pri Kmeta /Mayor’s pub/
s
Niky Beerhouse
s
16, Neofit Rilski Str. (map B4) & 02 851 19 15 Open: 12.00-24.00 A real green paradise in the center of Sofia. A great variety of Bulgarian cuisine, wines and draft beers. Perfect place for any occasion.
s
3, Parizh Str. (map E3) & 02 981 33 99 Open: 11.30-04.00 www.prikmeta.com Own Brewing Systems.
2, Bitolya Str. (map back) cell: 0895 774 565 0896 895 341 www.lacubanita.bg Open: 08.00-02.00
Motto
ss
2, Kotel Str. (map A8) & 02 964 03 86 cell: 0885 63 53 23 Open: 11.00-24.00 www.fenerite.com All credit cards accepted.
ss
18, Aksakov Str. (map E4) & 02 987 27 23 Open: 09.00-02.00 The retro-chic interior design is perfectly complimented by the right mood-setting music. Variety of cocktails and fine cuisine. Make a reservation.
21, Tsar Osvoboditel Blvd. Phone: 02 944 39 15 02 946 34 90 Typical Bulgarian Cuisine Open: 11.30 - 24.00 Seven days a week
bars & restaurants 43
44 bars & restaurants Bistro Flocafe
Open: 11.00 - 24.00
ss
Flocafe Lounge Bar & Restaurant Sofia 3, Sveta Nedelya Sq. (map C3) & 02 950 66 45 www.flocafe.bg Flocafe Lounge Bar & Restaurant Radinovo 119 km, Trakia highway & 02 31 88 32 08 115, Tsarigradsko Shose Blvd., The Mall & 02 878 78 14 When you really love something, you never get tired of doing it. This is exactly what we do, since we created our first Flocafe store. We never stop trying to offer the best place to be, throughout the day. You can enjoy every moment with your friends, in a relaxing and warm atmosphere, with the friendliest of service, the variety of tastes and products and above all, the best coffee in town. Welcome to Flocafe!
Bulgarian
“Manastirska Magernitsa” Restaurant offers traditional Bulgarian dishes with great taste. There you will find a variety of salads, dishes, delicious meats and other food, prepared on embers using special home recipes. By combining modern facilities with authentic traditions, meeting all European standards, restaurant “Manastirska Magernitsa” has become a favorite place for relaxing and eating quality traditional Bulgarian food.
s
40, Pozitano Str. (map B3) & 02 471 65 77 cell: 0894 312 131 Open: 10.00 - 02.00
Tavern in the heart of Sofia, where you can enjoy traditional Bulgarian dishes to indulge in bit atmosphere of the background of our folk music. Here you will found comfort, excellent menu and first class service.
Pod Lipite /Under the Linden-Trees/
ss
Lozenets Distr. (map E7) 1, Elin Pelin Str.
Bulgary
ss
71, Dondukov Blvd. (map D3) & 02 843 54 19, cell: 0887 45 50 50 www.restaurant.bulgary.bg Open: 12.00-24.00 One of the most authentic Bulgarian restaurants offers a unique ambience of original photographs and paintings documenting Bulgarian history. Culinary temptations for every palate and substantial wine list. Beautiful summer garden.
& 02 866 50 53 02 866 50 59 Open: 12.00-01.00 www.podlipitebg.com Should you wish to combine an all-in-one tasting of typical Bulgarian dishes and sensing the artistic spirit of Old Sofia, book a table at this place. An authentic folklore programme every evening.
Pri Yafata Grozd
ss
21, Tsar Osvoboditel Blvd. (map F4) & 02 944 39 15 cell: 0888 609 602 Open: 11.30-24.00 The fairly small, but emblematic restaurant has been in that exact spot for 10 years now. An extensive menu of hearty food to suit all tastes.
& 02 980 02 50 Open: 10.00-24.00 The menu is various – from the traditional Bulgarian cuisine to the most equivalent specialties from the world culinary 28, Solunska Str. (map E2) & 02 980 17 27 Open: 10.00-24.00
Manastirska Magernitsa 67, Han Asparuh Str. (map C5) & 02 980 38 83, 980 33 03 Cell: 0899 949 400
s
ss
29, Kn. Al. Dondukov Blvd. (map E2)
Corner of Solunska & Tsar Asen Str. (map C4) & 02 980 17 27 www.pri-yafata.com Open: 10.00-24.00
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46 bars & restaurants
Fast Food
Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC)
s
KFC Garibaldi Garibaldi Sq., 2, Angel Kanchev Str. KFC Stamboliyski 28, Alexandar Stamboliyski Blvd. KFC Lavov Most Lavov Most Sq., 172, Slivnitsa Blvd. KFC Lyulin Lyulin 7 area, Dzhavaharlal Neru Blvd. KFC CCS Arsenalski Blvd., City Center Sofia, 3 fl. KFC Arena Mladost Business Park, Mladost 4 area, 2 fl. /food court/ KFC Saharov Mladost 1 area, 25, Andrey Saharov Blvd. KFC Serdika Center 48, Sitnyakovo Blvd., Serdika Center, 2 fl. KFC The Mall 115, Tsarigradsko Shose Blvd., The Mall, food court www.kfc.bg
100, James Bourchier Blvd. (map C8) ss (Kempinski Hotel Zografski) cell: 0882 999 001 www.cooksgroup.com Open: 11.00-24.00 The restaurant comprises of 3 different parts – a Sushi Bar, an entire non-smoking hall and the main restaurant. An unique approach to the modern fishorientated cuisine.
Teacher Ivan’s House
ss
Lozenets Distr. (map D9, California Hotel) 30, Bigla Str. & 02 962 55 42 Open: 12.00-24.00 Cozy, old fashioned, Bulgarian atmosphere, a rich variety of Black Sea fish: scad, baby blue fish, blue fish, turbot, gar fish (our own catch), as well as a choice of Mediterranean Sea fish. Delicious national dishes. Open fire place for further coziness. All major credit cards accepted.
French
McDonald’s 69, W. Gladston Str. (Slaveykov Sq.) (map C4) cell: 0884 000 307 Open: 07.00-23.00 23, Knyaginya Maria Luisa Blvd. (map C2) cell: 0884 000 302 Open: 07.00-23.30 cell: 0884 000 302 1, Bulgaria Blvd. (map C6) cell: 0884 000 305 Open: 00.00-24.00
78, Tsar Simeon Str. (map D2) ss & 02 983 14 17 cell: 0887 52 33 76 The oldest french restaurant Provides a comfortable yet “familiale” atmosphere, always welcoming and always friendly. French food, French mood. Closed for lunch Saturday. Sundays off. Dinner reservation necessary. Offers lunch menu.
Fish Restaurant
Greek
Barbados
Kumbare
34A, Gen. E. I. Totleben Blvd. (map A4) s (in Hotel Shipka building) & 02 954 12 34 e-mail: reservation@barbados-bg.com www.barbados-bg.com A round bar in the middle of the main hall is the natural centre of aquatic décor. The restaurant’s calling cards – “Good to the last fish” forecasts the meal.
ss
14, Saborna Str. (map C3) & 02 981 17 94 Open: 11.00-24.00 www.kumbare.com This Mediterranean gem in the heart of Sofia serves wonderful, traditional favorites. Widely regarded as one of the city’s best places for Greek cuisine, tends to get packed, so it’s best to show up early.
bars & restaurants 47
AUTHENTIC BULGARIAN CUISINE
Restaurant POD LIPITE
1, Elin Pelin Str. phone: 02/ 866 50 53 02/ 866 50 59 cell: 0886 80 12 27
Korean Restaurant
Izgrev District 34, Elemag Str. For reservations: & 02 963 03 65
48 bars & restaurants Indian Gurkha
La Vitta e Bella
ss
Lozenets Distr. 56, Tsvetna Gradina Str. (map B8) & 02 865 02 16 cell 0884 939 100 Open: Every day 11:00-24:00 www.gurkhabg.com Indian and Nepali cuisine. Dishes from all over Asia. Nice and cozy place. Easy to find, 2 minutes from NDK, with a range of hotels around - Kempinski, Hilton, Hemus, Lozenets, Apartment House Lozenets, California, 7 Hills, Greenville... Parking. Wi-Fi zone. Delivery 11.30-22.00
Kohinoor
s
3, Han Asparuh Str. (map C5) Reservations & Deliveries: cell: 0882 532 541 Opening hours: Monday - Friday: 12.00 - 22.30 Saturday: 17.00 - 22.30
ss
6, Stara Planina Str. (map E2, Best Western Plus City Hotel Sofia) & 02 989 70 07 Open: 12.00 - 23.00 The interior and lyrical Mediterranean music transports you under a climbing vine in a typical Sicilian courtyard. The food prepared here is simple, nourishing and tasty, in the best traditions of Italian cooking. Friday&Saturday live music.
Korean
Korean Restaurant YUN
s
Izgrev Distr. 34, Elemag Str. (map G9) & 02 963 03 65 Open: Every day 12.00 -11.00 Karaoke with Korean, Japanese and English music. Reservations after 6.00pm Is one of the few places in Sofia where you will find authentic Korean food, setting and ambience. Everything here is redolent of the exotic East, from the genuine Korean products, vegetables and fruits to the sauces and spices imported from Korea.
Japanese
Italian
56, Bigla Str., Lozenets Distr. (map E9) ss & 02 962 32 75 Cell: +359 89 550 06 06 Open: 11.00-22.00 5, Lachezar Stanchev Str., Dianabad Distr. (map back) Sopharma Business Towers & 02 967 66 21 Cell: +359 89 550 06 05 Open: 08.00-24.00 www.lapastaria.net Fresh pasta, pizza, seafood, home-made desserts - You can taste all these dishes with a delight when visiting our Italian restaurants La Pastaria. We have gathered all the important ingredients for a class and successful restaurant- the comfort, the polite and discreet service, the class wines, the home-made pasta and desserts, the tasteful dishes, the light and unobtrusive music. We are not just cooking a food, we are creating a taste, a vision of every dish with love and pleasure. That’s why the food prepared in La Pastaria is ... an emotion! La Pastaria‌ where the food is emotion!
96, G. S. Rakovski Str. (map D3) ss cell: 0882 999 012 The Mall, 115, Tsarigradsko Shose Blvd. (map back) cell: 0882 999 013 100, James Bourchier Blvd.(map C8) Kempinski Hotel Zografski Sofia cell: 0884 80 40 40 www.happysushi.bg www.sushi.happy.bg, 0700 19190
Outskirts ss Dragalevtsi District (map back) & 02 967 10 58, fax: 02 967 50 07 Open: 12.00-24.00 www.vodenitzata.com One of the top ranked restaurants due to its magnificent scenery. During the winter months 2 fireplaces illuminate the stone walls. The impression of the programme show can be multiplied by tasting traditional Bulgarian specialities and splash them with the excellent rakia and wine. Reservations by all means.
bars & restaurants 49
50 bars & restaurants Lozenets Distr. 38 a, Cherni Vrah Blvd. 02 868 83 78 0888 297 457 3, Verila Str. / Vitosha Blvd. opposite NDK/
Pancharevo District (map back) 83, Samokovsko Shose Str. & 02 992 11 11; Open: 12.00-24.00 Situated on the very shore of the Pancharevo lake. 2 halls and splendid garden, whose Mediterranean style and natural beauty make the atmosphere really romantic. Seafood delights, as well as a rich collection of selected beverage.
Pizza
Pizza & Grill
s
02 988 82 58 0888 297 454
53, Vasil Levski Blvd. 02 988 20 24 0888 297 454 Home delivery:
0700 44 777
Only with us pizzas from original Italian receipes.
Turkish
1, Bulgaria Sq. (map B6) NDK, opposite Lumier cinema & bTV Cell: 0888 660 404 Open: Monday - Sunday: 10.00 - 22.30
Mamma Mia
s
1, Shipka Str. (map E3, behind Alexander Nevski Cathedral) & 02 988 55 05 cell: 0879 11 33 44 Open: 08.00-24.00 Home delivery: 0700 133 44 39 Tsar Ivan Shishman Str. (map D4, behind Sv. Sedmochislenitsi Church) & 02 981 27 27 Home delivery: 0700 133 44 Strelbishte Distr. 19-21, Dede Agach Str. (map back) & 02 958 61 06 Open: 10.00-24.00 Home delivery: 0700 133 44
ss 90, Bukston Blvd. (map back) & 02 855 11 00 Cell: 0878 155070 Open: 10:00-24:00 www.turquoise.bg Two halls inside and a summer garden, own parking.
Borisova gradina, National Tennis Center cell: 0885 148 504 Open: 09.00-24.00 Home delivery: 0700 133 44 www.mammamia.bg Credit cards accepted.
365 Bar food music 1, Shipka Str. (map E3, behind Alexander Nevski Cathedral)
34, Uri Venelin Str. (map E5) ss For reservations: & 02 989 12 12 Cell: 0896 79 49 62 www.tmturkishrestaurant.com T&M restaurant has been serving turkish traditional food in a historical atmosphere at the center of Sofia since 2000. We introduce delicious tastes of fabulous turkish cuisine with the best service without any compromise of our quality. We provide 100% customer satisfaction with our experienced staff and Turkish hospitality.
s
Situated at the foot of the Vitosha Mountains, TURQUOISE is here to welcome you with the famous Turkish hospitality. Delicious and authentic Turkish cuisine in a cozy and relaxing atmosphere and all this combined with excellent service – it’s everything that you have dreamt for. Come and be our guests, but don’t forget to make a reservation – we get easily full!
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52 entertainment
t s e g g i b he t A N A I AR k rin e c i open-air ans lk Ba e h t on
Entrance – 5 lv. Skate rental – 4 lv. Skate trainer – 8 lv. (40min.) Skate sharpening – 5 lv. Open: every day 00.00 – 24.00 h Free entrance: 8.00 – 9.20 h only for children and scholars
entertainment 53
Ariana ICE RINK - Borissova Gradina
54 entertainment bARS & cLUBS
of Sofia with thousands of your favourite english, italian,
Bar Road 66
can sing. Recently renovated it offers cosy atmosphere,
2, Marko Balabanov Str. (map A3) cell: 0887 222 028 Facebook: Bar Road 66 Strong whiskey, scent of wood and adrenalin lifting rock – that is what wait for you in the new Bar Road 66, inspired from the legendary american highway. The club is at the center of Sofia and it’s a binding place for true fans - for those who listen blues and rock and recognize it not only as a music, but as a mode of life.
french, russian, serbian and bulgarian songs that you friendly staff and affordable prices. Versus works during the day as a coffee shop and the karaoke party starts every evening at 21h. inside 50 seats outside 10 seats Open: Mon-Sun 19.30-05.00 www.barversus.com
Casinos
Princess Sofia 131, Kn. Maria Luiza Blvd. (map C0) (Sofia Princess Hotel) 88 A, Pop Gruyu Str. (map back) Cell: 0878 11 11 04 www.goldenqueen.bg Golden Queen is a celebration of beauty, romanticism and artisticity in Sofia. A masterpiece of architecture. A sensual merger of the classical elegance of Versailles with the vibrant energy of Las Vegas. Open: 00.00-24.00
& 02 933 88 88
Princess Rodina 8, Gen. totleben Blvd. & 02 953 25 32
Viva Casino Sheraton Sofia Hotel Balkan (map C3) & 02 981 57 47, 02 986 35 01 www.groupviva.com
Maraia
cell: 0893 729 190
Evlogiy and Hristo Georgievi Blvd. & Hristo Smirnenski Blvd. (map D6) & 02 865 85 05 Open: 00.00-24.00 www.barmaraia.com This trendy place is highly popular with Sofia’s young and business elite.
dANCE HALLS
Sofia Live Club 1, Bulgaria Sq. (map C6) For reservation: 0888 331 193 www.sofialiveclub.com Visit us on facebook.com SOFIA LIVE CLUB is located in the subway with the fountains of National Palace of Culture - a historical place for night life in Sofia. SOFIA LIVE CLUB houses not only Bulgarian musical talents, but also most of the guest stars from the European and world music stage.
Versus Club 16, Lavele Str. (map C3) (at the back of the Head Office of Bulbank) For reservations: +359 888 140 133 - Al.Besedin Open: 20.00 - 04.00 or untill people are present. Versus is the only Karaoke bar situated in the top center
11, Bogdan Str. (map H3) /Entrance from Madrid Blvd./ cell: +359 885 475 123 www.weddingdance.bg info@prettydancehall.com www.prettydancehall.com Private & Group Dance Lessons First Wedding Dance and everything for Wedding dances. Salsa, Latin, Ballroom, Ballet, Hip Hop, Contemporary, National Folk Dance, Belly Dance, Bollywood, Argentine Tango, Freestyle, Swing, Irish dance, Capoeira, Pilates, Yoga and etc.
ESCORT SERVICES Enigma agency 24, Vrabcha Str. & 02 944 50 70 cell: 0898 845 571, 0887 800 184
Hight - CLASS - Girls cell: 0887 670 366, 0876 398 552 www.hight-class-girls.com
entertainment 55
56 entertainment Art Shops
Cosmetics
Antique shop & Gallery ARTSTORY 34, Solunska Str. cell: +359 886 637 087 Mon - Sun: 10.00 - 19.00 petkomanchev@yahoo.com
Welcome to my antiqueshop. We offer of paintings, watches, medals, coins, porcelain, jewellery, militaria, toys, glass.
Art Shops The Bird
27, Moskovska Str./Entrance from G. S. Rakovski Str./ 24, Krakra Str. 12, Karnigradska Str. Open: Mon – Fri 10.00 – 20.00, Sat – Sun 11.00 – 19.00 cell: 0897 977 157, 0899 335 759, 0888 508 538 www.facebook.com/Ptica.bg Offering paintings, ceramics, dolls, jewellery, candles, making frames, presents package...
Antique Shop
4, Vitosha Blvd. At the corner of Vitosha Blvd. and Alabin Str.
Books & Antiques Center
23, Solunska Str. At the corner of Vitosha Blvd. and Solunska Str. cell: +359 878 601 806 ypaaa@mail.bg gmoantiques.com
Antique Art France 1, Vassil Levski Blvd. & 02 987 30 25 e-mail: antikartfrance@yahoo.com Antique Art France is a French antiquarian shop for antique French furniture and accessories. The shop offers a rich variety of antique mirrors, sets, candlesticks, silver cutlery, gas and electrified lamps, antique chandeliers and many other items.
Art shop Souvenirs & Bulgarian rose 17, Denkoglu Str. /at the corner with Vitosha Blvd./ cell: 0888 504 866 Mon - Fri: 10.00 - 19.30 Sat - Sun: 11.00 - 18.00
The shop offers various cosmetics with Bulgarian rose – aromatherapy oils, bath salts, candles. Here you can find traditional souvenirs, embroidery and national costumes – hand-made, gifts of wood, ceramics, dolls etc.
DR. NONA – HEALTH & BEAUTY FROM DEAD SEA! The Dead Sea is the richest source of minerals and microelements that are in the water and the mineral mud. “Dr. Nona Company” use those minerals to produce high quality products - cosmetic, food supplements and perfumery. For orders: marianamitova.drnona@abv.bg Cell: 0879 171 779 www.drnona-bg.alle.bg
MALLS The Mall 115, Tsarigradsko Shose Blvd. Situated on 66,000 square metres THE MALL is the largest shopping centre in Bulgaria with 178 stores featuring international brands, a 9000 sq meters Carrefour hypermarket, the ten screen Arena Cinema, various entertainment venues, a fitness centre, restaurants and cafes. This combination of world famous brands, services and places of recreation and entertainment makes THE MALL an exciting place to shop.
Shops
Over 25,000 appliances and accessories for home, office and car • Free Delivery • Free parking • Ability to purchase on credit
www.technopolis.bg National consumer phone 0700 12340 See map back: Mladost 4, 265, Okolovrastno Shose (opposite The Bells) & 02 921 11 11 Lulin 8, Tsaritsa Joanna (the metro station Lulin) & 02 921 00 92 Nadezhda, near overpass Nadezhda & 02 803 59 99 Serdika Mall - 48, Sitnyakovo Blvd., 1st floor & 02 892 79 27 The Mall - 115, Tsarigradsko Shose Blvd., Ground Floor & 02 807 64 64 Bulgaria Mall - 69, Bulgaria Blvd. & 02 903 59 59
entertainment 57
58 CULTURE Culture & spirit Situated on the crossroads between Asia and Europe, the present-day Bulgarian territory has been inhabited for time immemorial. Bulgarians, Thracians and Slavs have left a vivid trace in the world cultural treasury. It was here, at the magical Rhodopi Mountains, that Orpheus – the angel-voiced mythical poet and musician, considered the greatest poets ever, lived in Antiquity. Each corner of Bulgaria has preserved inimitable high-valued artistic etalons of material and spiritual culture. Bulgarian folklore with its fascinating music, national dance and picturesque folk costumes is widely known and appreciated throughout the world. The renowned female ensemble of “Mystery of Bulgarian voices� perform traditional folk songs. In later years, Bulgarian culture has become proud of its achievements in the realms of literature, arts, music and architecture. Boris Hristov, Nikolay Gyaurov, Rayna Kabaivanska, and Anna Tomova-Sintova are among the biggest names in world opera. Vladimir
Dimitrov-Maystora,
Zlatyu
Boyadzhiev, Nikola Manev, Stoyan Venev, Dimitar Kazakov, Georgi Bozhilov, Gredi Assa, and Christo are some of the names of world-renowned Bulgarian artists. In the Culture Section you will find updated information about the most interesting exhibition and concert shows in the capital, a program for the larger cultural centres, details on museums and galleries in Sofia.
CULTURE 59
IN dialogue Kalina Kraleva Rakesh Bani 22. 01 - 04.02 2013
www.galleryseasons.com
Seasons Gallery
60 CULTURE Galleries Paris Gallery 37, Tsar Samuil Str. (map B4) cell: 0898 669 120 Mon-Fri: 10.00 – 19.00 Sat: 11.00 – 18.00 www.facebook.com/AbsintheAquarelleGallery
47, Tsar Samuil Str. (map B3) & +359 2 980 80 93 cell: +359 89 850 55 31 www.gallery-paris.com www.icons-bg.com, Mon - Fri: 11.00 - 19.00, Sat: 11.00 - 14.00
Paris-Moskva Art Gallery Classica Gallery-Museum 32, Yuriy Venelin Str. (map E5) & 02 988 24 72 classica.gallery@gmail.com www.classica.art.bg Sun – Mon: 12.00 - 20.00
92, Georgi S. Rakovski Str. (map D3) & 02 980 88 67 Tue-Sat: 11.00 – 19.00, Sun: 11.00 – 16.00 e-mail: artparismoskva@gmail.com www.artparis-moskva.com
Seasons Gallery
Art Gallery Europe 3, Lege Str. (map C3) cell: 0894 34 17 24 www.artgalleryeurope.eu artdaniela.eu@gmail.com Mon – Sat: 11.00 - 19.00
A, Krakra Str. (map F3) & 946 30 56 Mon – Fri: 10.00 - 19.00 www.galleryseasons.com e-mail: office@galleryseasons.com
Zelena Shop-Gallery 120, G.S. Rakovski Str. (map C4) /Entrance from Han Krum Str./ cell: 0897 936 933 Mon – Fri: 12.00 - 20.00, Sat: 14.00 - 19.00
Finesse Gallery 17, Hristo Belchev Str. (map C4) & 02 986 25 90 cell: 0887 853 285 Tues – Sat: 11.00 - 19.00 gallery.finesse@email.bg mtabakova@altacommerce.com Nomad African Art Gallery
Art Gallery Zerliev 17, Parchevich Str. (map B4) /between Vitosha Blvd. & Hristo Botev Blvd./ cell: 0878 300 777 e-mail: zerliev@abv.bg www.zerliev.com
Nomad Gallery 2, 6-ti septemvri Str. (map D4) cell: +359 882 487 308 www.galerianomad.bg www.facebook.com/GaleriaNomad Weds – Fri: 14.00 - 19.00 Sat 11.00 - 18.00, Sun 12.00 - 16.00
1908 Gallery 1, Angel Kanchev Str. (map C4) cell: 0898 646 490 Tue - Sat: 12.00 - 19.00 1908gallery@gmail.com facebook 1908.bg
Palette
CULTURE 61
Gallery 1908 From 8th January till 30th January – Common exhibition by Petar Yankov, Svetlozar StoyanovSvesto, Li Rey An, Yuliana Sotirova
Absinthe Aquarelle Gallery From 7th December – Vincent Van Gogh vs Insanity - Exhibition by Alexander Telalim From 12th January till 31st January - Common exhibition of the most popular bulgarian artists water colors
Europe Art Gallery
Absinthe Aquarelle Gallery
Permanent original exhibition by contemporary Bulgarian artists
Finesse Gallery From 6th December 2012 till 12th January 2013 - Common Christmas exhibition by contemporary artists From 16th January till 2nd February - Exhibiton by Prof. Stoyan Domuschiev - paintings
National Gallery For Foreign Art From 26th October 2012 till 13th January 2013 – Paris 1900 from the collection of Petit Palais Museum
National Gallery of Art
National Gallery of Art From 19th December 2012 till 28th February 2013 – Exhibition new paintings
Nomad Gallery Visit Nomad Gallery to experience the spirit and beauty of authentic African art and culture, find unique holiday gifts.
Paris Gallery From 12th December till 31st January - Common exhibition – Christmas red
Paris Gallery
Seasons Gallery From 22nd January till 4th February – Exhibition by Kalina Kraleva and Rakesh Bani – In dialogue
Shop-Gallery “Zelena” Works of art - ceramics, hand painted glass, textiles, jewelry, metal, oil paintings, watercolors, drawings, graphs.
Art Gallery Zerliev Expressive original paintings by Blagovest Zerliev
Gallery 1908
62 CULTURE Exhibitions in dialogue - Sezoni gallery More than three years ago, through the language of the exquisite graphics, Kalina Kraleva meets Rakesh Bani in the virtual space. Virtual was their “chat” at that time as well. In front of them is a border, separating the two cultures and the understanding of the world. Kalina asks Rakesh to make his statement shortly and his motivation to perform with her and this is what he says: “The purpose of our mutual exhibition is unifying the specific folklore of the two cultures. The graphic is magic in the development of the image as well as in the process of the printing. The art is born in the life that surrounds us” – Kalina adds that life is a painter with a constant developing of ideas, feelings, emotions, a rechargeable process which loads and unloads giving out cosmic energy. “In India the art of graphics begins to develop taking information from the Western world, today it is vastly popular and is on the world cultural stage for a long time.” Kalina says that in spite of the suffering India experienced during the British colonization, in the country entered knowledge, contemporary technologies which opened the doors of this culture to the world.”
Performance for adults in Sofia Puppet Theatre at 14, Gen. Gurko Str.
Holy international project of Sofia Puppet Theatre Autor, dances and scenographie – Duda Paiva, The Netherlands /guest/ Scenographie – Yaka Ivanats, Slovenia /guest/ Dolls – Jim Burnard, Great Britain /guest/ Costumes – Yulian Tabakov Assistant Director – Manuela Sarkisyan Roles: Rebeka – Tsvetoslava Simeonova Maria – Ivet Lazarova Artur – Dimitar Todorov Lilo – Marieta Petrova Steward – Ivan Raykov Man, trapped in the absurd of the technological progress, making its life on Earth Heaven and Hell, depending on the circumstances! Man in the net of his own complexes and fears! holy is a tragicomic, multi-genre performance combining puppet and dancing theater and multimedia. Duda Paiva reviews the human body in a situation filled with emotions, with all its restrictions and absurd. A family celebration – the birthday of the mother Rebecca gathers together three generations. The biblical motive of the Last Supper is served with a modern perspective in which the two daughters and the husband of one of them, together with the mother Rebecca are protagonists. During the weird celebration the audience penetrates in the deepest secrets of each character to the moment in which the main character Rebecca experiences an almost unreal physical transformation in front of everyone. The characters react differently to this unexpected outcome, their reactions and extreme but completely spontaneous even when they seem absurd. In the spectacle Duda Paiva plays with the scale of the objects and puppets.
CULTURE 63 Exhibitions Christmas Red in Paris gallery On December 12, 2012 the capital gallery “Paris” opened its traditional Christmas exposition titled “Christmas Red”. The debut in this year’s Christmas exhibition will be of the artist Rosen Kavrakov, as well as the hyper-realist Miroslav Ivanov. His great piece of art “Forum” is the exhibition’s accent and will probably cause various discussions regarding the topic – is it art to paint almost “photographically” a big glass, full of various caps of whiskey, tequila, cognac and martini. „Christmas Red” passes as a thread through the red trees of the landscape by Bogomil, the red angel by Roshpaka, the red dress of the reading girl of Gary’s painting, the red umbrella of the 3D piece of art by Mara – “This is not Mary Poppins”, the red Venice furniture by Christian’s photographs, the red color in the expressive pieces of art by Moskov or the magnetic realism of Rosen Krastev.
To all of this we may add a small pink fish in the paws of the cat “Nikolcho” – in the so-called piece of art by Georgi Yordanov. „Christmas Red” is a warm and colorful exhibition with which we hope to set a Christmas mood in all of the Bulgarian art lovers till 31 January.
About the monuments and people in Vaska Emanuilova gallery About the monuments and people can’t be called an exhibition in the way we are used to. Vaska Emanuilova gallery submit the opportunity to know the history of four of the most discussed monuments. It is a history continued to be written by the hundreds of comments /anonymous very often/ on the web, many publications in the written media.
64 CULTURE Programme
Theatre Bulgarian Army
The plays begin at 19.00 4th January - MUCH ADO ABOUTH NOTHING by Shakespeare 5th January - NENCHO’S MAGIC – illusion spectacle by Nencho Ilchev, special guest – Liybo Neykov 8th, 30th January – CHRISTENING by Donev 9th January - SEX, DRUGS AND ROCK’N’ROLL by Bogosiyan 10th, 18th, 29th January - DEKAMERON by Bokaco 11th, 26th January - SCISSORS KILLER by Jordan and Abrams 12th, 24th January - NOW OR NEVER by Krasnogorov 13th, 27th January - A TEACHER’S NOTIONS ABOUT THE FOLK ART by Kamen Donev 14th, 28th January - VRAZHALETS by Kostov – guest theatre Melpomena 15th January - LALUGER by Aleksandar Urumov – monospctacle by Nikolay Urumov 16th, 31st January - THE IRON CRESSET by D.Talev
98, Rakovski Str., & 02 987 23 03 www.tba.art.bg, facebook.com/armytheatre 17th January - EVGENIY ONEGIN by Poushkin 19th January - SLAVE COMEDY by Tedi Moskov 20th January - THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST by Wilde 21st January - MAFIA AND TENDER FEELINGS 22nd January - THE LEGACY OF A CHASTE WOMANIZER by Anatoliy Krim 23rd January – SEAGULL by Tchehov 25th January - AS YOU LIKE IT by Shakespeare
SCENE – CLUB 24th January, 19.30 – FINAL ORDERS by Priestley
Decameron is a spectacle you have been expecting but you cannot predict. You cannot prepare yourselves for the first meeting with it, because it explodes. It throws in the air around all postulates, stereotypes and arrangements. Structured on six of the hundred possible novels in “Decameron” by Giovanni Boccaccio, adolescents who in 14 century run away of the plague and boredom settle to create their imaginary – plausible stories. The play is challenging and courageous in the direction of Diana Dobreva, in the scenography and costumes of Nina Pashova, gorgeous in the music of Petya Dimanova and exquisite in the choreography of Tatyana Sokolova. Satire Theatre Aleko Konstantinov SCENE SHTASTLIVETSA 7th, 16th, 25th January, 19.00 - DINNER FOR FOOLS by Veber 9th, 10th, 15th January, 19.00 - SPINACH WITH POTATOES by Z. Egreshi 11th January, 19.00 - CENTRAL PARK WEST by Woody Allen 12th, 26th January, 19.00 - ONE MORE TIME FROM BEHIND by Frane 13th, 27th January, 19.00 – LOVE BY SCHEDULE by Mark Kamoletti 17th, 30th January, 19.00 - THE INFIDELITY’S BEAUTY by V. Krasnogorov 18th January, 19.00 - LIE DETECTOR by V. Sigarev 19th January, 19.00 - HISTERY by Johnson 20th, 31st January, 19.00 - CENTURY MINE by Laurence 21st January, 19.00 - ROMAN BATH by Stratiev 23rd January, 19.00 – BULGARIAN STORIES solo by M.Kurkinski 24th January, 19.00 - A SMALL RADIO solo with Maya Novoselska
26, Stefan Karadzha Str. & 02 988 10 60 www.satirata.bg 28th January, 19.00 - MILD FORM TO SEVERE DEPRESSION by Stratiev 29th January, 19.00 – CRAZY FAMILY by Rey Kuny
KAMERNA SCENE 15th January, 19.00 - WOMEN’S KINGDOM by Kostov – guest cinema studio Defisto 16th, 28th January, 19.00 - LIFE THOUGH SHORT by Stratiev 19th, 26th January, 11.00 - ANDERSEN’S STORIES by Elenov
CULTURE 65 Programme
Youth Theatre Nikolay Binev LITTLE Stage
8-10, Knyaz Dondukov & 02 939 40 59, cell: 02 988 17 53, www.mlt.bg
Main Stage 3rd, 9th, 24th January, 19.00 - MISTER BALKANSKI 5th, 13th,19th January, 11.00 – KARLSON 6th, 20th January, 11.00 - THE SLEEPING BEAUTY 8th, 16th, 31st January, 19.00 - AN AIRPORT 10th, 30th January, 19.00 - AWESOME GUYS 11th January, 19.00 - KRIMINALE 2D 12th, 26th January, 11.00 - LITTLE MOUK 15th January, 19.00 - BEYOND THE PRINCIP /dance performance/ 22nd January, 19.00 – THREE SISTERS 23rd January, 19.00 – MAKBET 25th January, 19.00 – KOLA BRONYON 27th January, 19.00 - THE TREASURE ISLAND 29th January, 19.00 - A STEP FORWARD
4th, 17th January, 19.00 - LOVE AND MONEY 9th January, 19.00 – WALLED 11th January, 19.00 – NORDOST 12th January, 19.00 – CARNAVAL.com 17th, 19th January, 19.00 – THE CHILDREN OF THE WORLD – Premiere 20th January, 19.00 - THE SHADOW OF MY SOUL 23rd January, 19.00 - THE CHILDREN OF THE WORLD 26th January, 19.00 - FRIDA THE CHILDREN OF THE WORLD by Stefan Tsanev
Director Krasimir Spasov with Stefan Mavrodiev, Doroteya Toncheva /guest/, Gergana Hristova
National Music & Ballet Center 10th January, 19.00 - THE CSARDAS PRINCES – Operetta by Imre Kalman 11th January, 19.00 - ZORRO– by the music of Gypsy Kings and J. Cameron 12th January, 19.00 - ZORRO– by the music of Gypsy Kings and J. Cameron 16th January, 19.00 – THE MASTER OF CSARDAS – 130th anniversary of Imre Kalman’s birth 18th January, 19.00 - BULGARIAN FROM OLDEN TIMES – Operetta by Karastoyanov 19th January, 11.00 - SNOW-WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARVE – musical by A. Kosev 19th January, 19.00 - THE BEAUTIFUL HELENE – Opera buffo by Offenbach 23rd, 24th January, 19.00 - ALADIN - musical for children and adults
100, Vasil Levski Blvd. & 02 943 19 79 www.musictheatre.bg Arabesk Ballet 17th January, 19.00 – THE DRACULA’S DIARY 31st January, 19.00 – DANCING TRANSLATIONS – Premiere of international project
Theatre Vazrajdane 5th January, 11.00, 12.30 - SLEEPING BEAUTY by Keva Apostolova after Charles Perrault and Brothers Grimm 6th, 20th January, 11.00, 12.30 - THE LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD after Charles Perrault by Keva Apostolova 8th January, 19.00 - MOUSETRAP by Agatha Christie 11th January, 19.00 - THE MISUNDERSTOOD CIVILIZATION by Dobri Voynikov 12th January, 11.00, 12.30 - GRANDMA’S CAKE by V. Mirchovski 13th January, 11.00, 12.30 - SNOW-WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARVES by Hristo Botev after Brothers Grimm 13th January, 19.00 - SWINDLERS (CON MEN) by Zvonimir Basic 15th January, 19.00 - CLOSER by Patrick Marber 18th, 19th January, 19.00 – THE LAST FREDI’S SECRET – Prepremiere 19th January, 11.00, 12.30 - DONKEY SKIN after Charles Perrault by Krasimira Metodieva
4, P. R. Slaveykov Sq. & 02 987 24 31 www.theatrevazrajdane.com 22nd January, 19.00 - THE DUEL – by Ivan Vazov 25th January, 19.00 – TABOO 26th January, 11.00, 12.30 - MAX AND MORITZ by Hristo Botev after W. Bush 26th January, 19.00 - THE LAST FREDI’S SECRET 27th January, 11.00, 12.30 - PUSS IN BOOTS after Charles Perrault and Brothers Grimm by Nina Stoycheva 27th January, 19.00 – LOVE HOLDS by Bafini 28th January, 19.00 - THE BLUE ROOM by Sir D. Hare 29th January, 19.00 - ALLO ‘ALLO! by Jeremy Lloyd and David Croft
66 CULTURE Programme National academy for theatre and film arts Krastyo Sarafov Drama Training Theatre GRAND HALL
Starts at 19.00 h 8th, 18th, 29th January - CAUCASIAN CHALK CIRCLE by Bertolt Brecht 9th, 19th, 30th January - GYMNASTICS FOR THE PREGNANT by Zdrava Kamenova 10th, 24th January - 13 I WISH - dance and theatre spectacle 11th, 22nd January - FOREST GHOST by Anton Pavlovich Chekhov 12th, 17th, 26th January - MOON CHILDREN by Michael Weller 16th January - ETERNITY – FREE ENTRY or ODYSSEUS AND SHADOWS dance spectacle 23rd, 31st January - ILLUSION by Pierre Corneille 25th January – THE DISEASE YOUTH by Bruckner
STAGE 47 Starts at 19.00 h 10th, 18th, 30th January – OPAKOMETAMORFOZI by Valeri Petrov 11th, 26th January - Mr. Colpert by David Gizelman 12th, 22nd, 29th January - GLENGARRY GLEN ROSS by David Mamet 15th, 25th, 31st January - AMERICAN BEAUTY by Alan Ball 16th, 23rd January - COUNTRY ANECDOTES by Alexander Vampilov 17th January - PARALLEL WORLDS dance spectacle, idea and choreography Petya Popova 19th, 24th January - UNNATURAL SELECTION author and director Boris Mitkov
108 A, G. S. Rakovski Str. & 02 923 12 85 www.natfiz.bg www.facebook.com
A 610 Starts at 20.00 h 26th January -TWELFTH NIGHT – COMPOSITION by William Schekspear UNDERGROUND HALL /SFUMATO THEATRE/ Starts at 19.00 h 14th, 28th January – MARQUISA DE SAD by Uykio Mishima - Premiere TICKETS AVAILABLE AT THE CASH REGISTER OF EDUCATIONAL THEATRE
Caucasian Chalk Circle, by Bertolt Brecht, director Ivaylo Hristov
HALL GURKO 14
Sofia Puppet Theatre
12th January, 10.30, 12.00 – WHO HAS DONKEY YEARS? 12th January, 16.30 – A VAMPIRE’S BRIDE 13th January, 10.30, 12.00 – PAINTINGS FROM AN EXHIBITION 17th January, 19.00 – holy 19th January, 10.30, 12.00 – THE SNOW QUEEN 19th, 26th January, 16.30 – A STORY ABOUT WANDERER KING 20th January, 10.30, 12.00 – PITER PAN 24th January, 19.00 – MERCURY – guest producer house Kredi Arte 26th January, 10.30, 12.00 - SNOW-WHITE 27th January, 10.30, 12.00 – GOLDY – THE GOLD GIRL 31st January, 19.00 – STORIES FROM THE VAT
14, Gen. Gurko Str. - 02 988 54 16 19, Yanko Sakazov - 02 944 14 24 www.sofiapuppet.com
HALL YANKO SAKAZOV 19 12th January, 10.30, 12.00 – SNOW-WHITE 13th January, 10.30, 12.00 – THE THREE PIGS 19th January, 10.30, 12.00 – THE WARM GLOVE 20th January, 10.30, 12.00 – ALADIN AND THE MAGIC LAMP 26th January, 10.30, 12.00 – THE LITTLE FRUITS 27th January, 10.30, 12.00 – WHERE ARE YOU GOING YOU LITTLE HORSE
CULTURE 67
85 Years Sofia Philharmonie
Programme
Sofia Philharmonic Orchestra
Bulgaria Hall 10th January, 19.00 Subscription cycle SOFIA, CULTURE, EUROPE Programme: J. Brahms – concert for violin and cello, Dvorak – Symphony 9; Permanent guest conductor – Young Chill Lee, Republic of Korea; Soloists – Aleksander Knyazev, Russia, Takashi Shimizu, violin, Japan 17th January, 19.00 Subscription cycle MISICAL MASTERPIECES, first concert Programme: P. l. Tchaikovsky – concert for violin and orchestra; N. Korsakov – Sheherezada; Principal Conductor – Martin Panteleev; Soloist – Philippe Quint, USA 23rd January, 19.00 Sonic dialogues Programme: Choir performances a capella of Bird, Talis Dauland, Gibens; Excerpts from Shakespeare’s and Johnson’s plays; Conductor – I. Mihaylov
1, Aksakov Str. Ticket Office & 02 987 76 56 www.sofiaphilharmonie.bg 25th January, 19.00, Bulgaria Chamber hall Subscription cycle Second concert VIENNA CLASSIC Sofia Quartet – Angel Stankov-violin, Nanko Dimitrovviolin, Valentin Gerov-viola, Jeffrey Dean-cello 27th January, 17.00 Subscription cycle SUNDAY CLASSICS Programme: Mozart – Les petit riens, ouverture - concert for piano and orchestra 12; L. Beethoven – Symphony 1 Conductor – Tsanko Delibozov Soloist – Yovcho Krushev, piano 31st January, 19.00 Subscription cycle MISICAL MASTERPIECES - Second concert Programme: Zeehafer – Roots /Premiere/ Camille Saint-Saens – concert for piano and orchestra 2; Cesar Frank – Symphony Conductor – Zeehafer, Germany Soloist – Kalia Kalcheva, piano
68 CULTURE Events Surva IN PERNIK International festival of masquerade games Every year for three days at the end of January, Pernik dons a mask and turns into the European capital of koukeri and sourvakari (mummers). The reason for the transformation is the International festival of masquerade games “Surva”, which is held every year. Its 21st edition will take place between 25th and 27th January 2012. During the festival, masquerade groups from all ethnographic regions of Bulgaria, as well as foreign formations, march in processions along the city streets. Traditionally the start is given with an open-air performance, when the leader of “Surva” lights the festival bonfire. The evening ends with multi-colored fireworks, wild dances, masks and sheep bells, and in the morning the first mummers appear in the streets. The traditional “Mask workshop” is organized, there are exhibitions of sheep bells, folklore concerts, DJ parties in the open, discussions. The Underground museum of mining, the Regional historical museum, the Memorial of the work of miners and the Medieval fortress “Krakra” are open for visitors. The International festival of masquerade games “Surva” in Pernik is the most prestigious forum of traditional games and mask customs in Bulgaria and on the Balkans. The festival, which has been organized by Pernik municipality since 1966, is rooted in the living tradition of masquerading.
CULTURE 69 Museums Archaelogical Museum
Permanent and temporally exhibitions at: Prehistory Hall, Vault, Central Hall, Middle Ages Hall. The famous Vulchitrun gold treasure is among the most precious exhibits in Bulgaria’s oldest museum.
2, Saborna Str. (next to the Bulgarian Nat. Bank) & 02 988 24 06 www.naim.bg Open: Tue–Sun 10.00-17.00 Admission: 10 leva
4, Cherni Vrah Blvd. & 02 865 66 39 Unique mineralogical museum keeping more than www.earthandman.org 20 000 samples collected all over the world. Open: Tue–Sat 10.00-18.00 Admission: 2 leva
Earth and Man National Museum
National Art Gallery The National Art Gallery is housed in the former Prince’s Palace at the Kniaz Alexander Battenberg Square in the capital. Today it is in possession of the largest collection of pictorial art in the country.
1, Knyaz Al. Batenberg Sq. & 02 980 00 93 www.nationalartgallerybg.org Open: Tue-Sun 10.00-18.00 Admission: 6 leva
Boyana, 16, Vitoshko Lale Str. (Residence Boyana, Palace 1) Museum contents more than 650 000 exhibits and is & 02 955 42 80 one of the largest history museums on the Balkans. www.historymuseum.org Open: Mon–Sun 09.30-18.00 Amazing recent Thracian gold discoveries. Admission: 10 leva
National History Museum
National Gallery for Foreign Art
The Gallery is unique with the character of its collection – the art of distant lands, of old and new ages coexists with the modern European tendencies, with traditional and religious pictorial principles in the chronological span of a millennium.
Sofia City Art Gallery The gallery possesses some of the richest collections in Bulgaria: 8000 works of art by Bulgarian artists from the end of the 19th century till present.
National Museum of Natural History - BAS The richest museum of natural history on the Balkans. Over a million specimens of animals, plants and minerals.
National Military - History Museum The richest Bulgarian state collections of weapons, uniforms, insignia, flags, military seals, photographs.
1, Sv. Al. Nevski Sq./ 19-ti Fevruari Str. & 02 980 72 62, 02 988 49 22 www.foreignartmuseum.bg Open: Wed–Mon 11.00-18.30 Admission: 6 leva; Last Mon of Month - Free Entrance 1, Gen. Y. V. Gurko Str. (Entr. from Kn. Al. Batenberg Str.) & 02 987 21 81, www.sghg.bg Open: Tue–Sat 10.00-19.00 Sun 11.00-18.00 Free Entrance 1, Tsar Osvoboditel Blvd. (near the Russian Church) www.nmnhs.com & 02 987 41 95 Open: Mon–Sun 10.00-18.00 Admission: 4 leva 92, Cherkovna Str. & 02 2 946 18 05 mail: m.museum@bol.bg www.militarymuseum.bg Open: Wed-Sun: 10.00-18.00
Museum of the Socialist Art
Izgrev Distr. 7, Lachezar Stanchev Str. & 02 902 18 02 www.nationalartgallerybg.org Open: 10.00-17.30
National Polytechnic Museum
66, Opalchenska Str. & 02 931 80 18 Open: Mon-Fri: 09.00-17.00
is the first institution in Bulgaria in order to collect, preserve and present examples of Bulgarian art created during the period 1944 - 1989, the thematically related to the era of socialism.
Permanent expositions: watches, safety lamps, surveying equipment, physical appliances, automobiles, communication equipment, communication equipment
70 Useful Numbers Airline Companies
5, Angel Kanchev Str. (map C4) & 02 980 22 12 Luggage and Flying Blue claims: www.alitalia.bg fax: 029 800 865 Ticketing desk at the airport: & 02 937 32 11
Bulgaria Air
Bus Lines
www.centralnaavtogara.bg 138, Vasil Levski Blvd. (map E1) &/fax: 02 945 39 39 100, Knyaginya Maria Luiza Blvd. (map C0) & 028 133 100, 028 133 101 www.etapgroup.com
& 02 402 04 00
CENTRAL BUS STATION
e-mail: callFB@air.bg For sales and reservations: & 02 402 04 05, 02 402 04 06 e-mail: tickets@air.bg Internet reservation: 02 402 04 61 e-mail: online@air.bg www.air.bg
100, Knyaginya Maria Luiza Blvd. (map C0) & 0900 21 000 www.centralnaavtogara.bg
Car Rentals
53, Nikola Vaptsarov (map back) & 02 439 02 22/ 23 fax: 02 439 12 25 e-mail: office@hertz.bg Sofia Airport: & 029 459 217 For reservations & ticketing: Office - 14, Tsar Osvoboditel Blvd. Landmark Centre Sofia, Office 01-14 Phone: 00 359 2 947 4006 / 00 359 2947 4007 Fax: 00 359 2 9804151 E-mail: sofsales@thy.com Working Hours: Weekdays: 09:00-17:30 Airport - Terminal 2 1, Bruksel Blvd. Departure Hall Phone: 00 359 2 9373121 Fax: 00359 2 945 91 45 Email: ekarabasoglu@thy.com www.turkishairlines.com
Mladost-1 25 Distr. Entrance B, Office 1 Near to The Mall on Tsarigradsko Shose Blvd. & 02 423 57 98 cell: 0896 68 68 51 0896 68 68 49 www.rotto-bg.com e-mail: office@rotto-bg.com
Diplomatic Missions
Info Center
www.mfa.bg/en
Emergency Number Single European Emergency Call Number: &112
Underpass of St. Kliment Ohridski Univercity of Sofia and Metrostation St. Kliment Ohridski Open: Mon - Fri 9.30 - 18.30 & 02 491 83 44/ 45
Useful Numbers 71 Language Courses
Real Estate
STUDYINBG EDUCATIONAL CENTRE NEED BULGARIAN? “Learn to speak here’’ Groups and one to one 145, G. S. Rakovski Str., entr. G, ground floor & 02 9866973 cell: 0884 632 122, 0895 796 251 info@studyinbg.com
75, Patriarh Evtimiy Blvd. (map B5) & 02 852 06 53, & /fax: 02 953 17 66 cell: 0888 839 516 e-mail: anima_m@realtor.bg office@anima-mbg.com www.anima-mbg.coms.com
Translations
www.studyinbg.com
Locksmith assistance Lozenets District 27, Tsvetna gradina Str. (map C8)
0888 41 92 88 & 02 963 00 66 Lost Properties On plane – at information desk to the air company At the airport – information desk in terminal or security & 02 937 35 54, 02 937 35 55 On the public transport – office Vazrazhdane, small hall - & 02 987 334 6 (7-20h), Vazrazhdane sq. On train – at Central railway station, & 02 932 30 42 In a taxi – contact with taxi company
Medical Services
IMC - International Medical Center Family Medicine & Pediatrics; Physiotherapist; Ultrasound, Gynecology, Laboratory; Adults & Children Dental Care; English, French and Russian Speaking Doctors & Staff. Credit cards accepted. 28, N. V. Gogol Str. (map G4) e-mail: imc@gbg.bg www.imc-sofia.com For appointments and house calls: & 02 944 93 26, 02 944 93 17 (8.30-20.00 h) or 0886 532 551 (24 h)
Railway Central Railway Station Knyaginya Maria Luiza Blvd. (map C0) & 02 931 11 11, 02 932 33 33 www.bdz.bg
ISO 9001:2000 Translation and Legalization Agency (Department “Consul’s Relationships” at the Bulgarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, contract 997/2005 authorizes the agency) 68, V. Levski Blvd. (map D5) & 02 980 60 52, fax 02 980 01 34 e-mail: office@artedoc.com www.translationservicebg.com
Fides Interconsult Ltd. ISO 9001:2008 Lloyd’s Register Quality Assurance Translation, document legalization 4, Sv. Kliment Ohridski Str. (map F4) (next to SU “Kliment Ohridski”) & /fax: 02 946 13 92, 02 943 86 65 cell: 0887 792 282 e-mail: office@fides.bg www.fides.bg
Tourist Services
ATPOH ASTRON-S Ltd.
National Palace of Culture /NPC/ Tickets center & + 359 2 953 11 15 & 953 11 20 Fax: + 359 2 980 10 19 e-mail: info@astron-s.com www.astron-s.com AIR TICKETS, BUS TICKETS, HOTEL RESERVATIONS Medical Insurances, Seminars, Conferences, Cruises, Excursions & Holidays Open: Mon - Fri 9.00 - 18.00 Sat 10.00 - 14.00