Sofia is the capital and the largest city in Bulgaria. Sofia is the second oldest capital city in Europe, blending its past and present in a remarkable architectural style. The history of Sofia dates back to the 8th century BC, when Thracians established a settlement there. Sofia, Bulgaria has had several names in the different periods of its existence, and remnants of the city's millenary history can still be seen today alongside modern landmarks.
Historic landmarks include the 10th century Boyana Church (one of the UNESCO World Heritage protected sites), the Alexander Nevski Cathedral (one of the world's largest Orthodox churches), and the Byzantine Church of St. Sofia. More modern architecture is represented by the Bulgarian National Opera and Ballet, the Ivan Vazov National Theatre, the Rakovski Str. theater district, Slaveykov Square's outdoor book market, and the NDK, which is Southeastern Europe's largest cultural and congressional center. The city also offers many places of special interest such as the Sts. Cyril and Methodius National Library, the Bulgarian Natural History Museum, the Museum of Earth and Men. Vitosha Boulevard, also called Vitoshka - ranked as the world's 22nd most expensive commercial street - represents numerous fashion boutiques and luxury goods stores and features exhibitions by world fashion designers. Sofia's geographic location, situated in the foothills of the beautiful weekend retreat Vitosha mountain, further adds to the city's specific atmosphere.There are 16 universities in the city, among them Sofia University, founded in 1888.
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