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History

Modern history

Following the fall of the socialist regime, Sofia experienced a significant surge in private construction, marking a new era in the city's architectural and urban development. This period saw the erection of new modern buildings, many of...

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Sofia Under Communist Rule (1944 – 1989)

The year 1946, extending into the early months of 1947, was a period of intense negotiation for Bulgaria as it sought to define its post-war status through the Paris Peace Treaty. These negotiations were critical in determining Bulgaria's...

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After the Liberation

At the dawn of the new year, on January 4, 1878 (December 23, 1877, in the old style calendar), Sofia witnessed a significant turning point in its history. Following the battle of Sofia, Russian military units, led by General Joseph...

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Decline in the 17th – 19th centuries

Starting from the 17th century, Sofia, mirroring the broader decline of the Ottoman Empire and the cessation of its expansive military campaigns into Central Europe, began to experience a gradual downturn. The city, once a pivotal...

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Middle Ages

In the spring of 809, Bulgarian ruler Krum captured Serdika on his return from a military campaign in the Struma valley. This event occurred on the eve of Easter, marking a significant moment in the city's history. According to the...

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Antiquity and Antiquity

The Slatina Neolithic settlement, dating back to the 6th millennium BC, marks the earliest known habitation within what is now Sofia, evidencing an early Neolithic presence. This period signifies the dawn of settled life in the area,...

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Sofia Coat of Arms

The coat of arms of Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, serves as a symbol for the Capital Municipality as well. It was crafted in 1900 for the World Exhibition in Paris. The creation involved prominent figures: Ivan Mrkvichka, the director...

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