Bulgaria's hidden cultural gem
Bulgaria's capital reveals its hidden treasuresIf you want to discover a well-kept Balkan secret, visit Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, which is renovating its tree-lined boulevards and historical landmarks. Now is the time to discover the city's hidden treasures.
Take a flight from Manchester to Sofia and you will soon be exploring this graceful city and its many ornate churches, the Banya Bashi Mosque, and its many museums and galleries.
Sofia hosts many events throughout the year, including music, the arts and various festivals. Sofia Music Weeks annually presents opera, ballet and concerts by prestigious European companies, along with talks and exhibitions and master-classes for young talent, and tributes to some of the world's great composers.
The Sofia National Opera and Ballet perform daily and has a permanent company of soloists, dancers, orchestra and choir. Each Easter, the theatre presents a festival with gala performances from Bulgarian composers who present new works.
The International Folk Festival is held every year and groups, individuals and dance troupes perform and seek to strengthen the ties between different cultures.
With 16 halls and seating from 50 to 4,000, the National Palace of Culture is the largest complex in south eastern Europe, and offers a full cultural calendar every year. It boasts bars, restaurants, cafes and clubs and is surrounded by sites of interest and museums, and many fine hotels and restaurants.
Theatre lovers should visit the Ivan Vazov National Theatre, the oldest theatre in Bulgaria and one of Sofia's most important landmarks, and for this season's programme visit the theatre's website.
With all it has to offer, this vibrant cultural city offers visitors all the entertainment and relaxation they may be looking for.
