Day 16 – Free Sofia tour . . .

Over the centuries Bulgaria has struggled against foreign occupying forces. And on occasions fiercely fired its own claims over neighbouring territories. Hopefully, now as an official member of the EU, those inglorious times are long gone. Nowadays they welcome a different type of invasion.

We join forces with an international exploratory group. It’s 6C. A grey day. Everyone wrapped up in layers. No camo in sight. No blue on show either. United nations all intent on accomplishing a peace keeping mission. A small platoon of 32. Representations from Israel, Italy, U.S., UK, Bulgaria, France, Germany, Switzerland, Japan. All armed with phone or camera at the ready. Together for a two hour guided march. Ably lead by homegrown Nikola.

Modern day Sofia stands on four layers of history. Construction of the new metro exposed many section of the ancient Roman civilisation. They decide to show and preserve.
80% of the population is Orthodox Christian. Church of Saint Nicholas – the interior just as stunning.
The Bulgarian Lion seen in many places

Nikola keeps us very well entertained. Info with humour. Almost a performance. One that’s repeated 365 days of the year. Regardless of whether it’s -20C or +40C.

play-sharp-fill
Surprisingly the mineral water is around body temperature
The National Theatre. Nikola informs us that all performances are in Bulgarian. We’ll give that a miss then.
The Presidency Building – He’s not under lock and key.
“Psst! – Wake up – we got visitors . . . “
“Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz”

We finish our cold stay in Sofia as started – with a hot Costa.