City Garden

"The City Garden (Gradska gradina) in Sofia, Bulgaria, is a significant historical and cultural landmark, being the city's oldest and most central public garden. Established in 1872 during the final years of Ottoman rule, it has undergone several transformations, particularly following Bulgaria's liberation in 1878. The garden was initially named after Russian Tsar Alexander II, in recognition of his role in the Russo-Turkish War, which led to Bulgaria's independence. Following Sofia’s designation as the capital, architect Antonín Kolář and Governor Pyotr Alabin spearheaded a redesign, introducing new plants, pathways, and cultural elements like a coffeehouse and a musicians’ kiosk. Over the years, renowned gardeners such as Karl Betz, Daniel Neff, and Iliya Todorov contributed to shaping its unique landscape. During the Communist era, the garden underwent further restructuring, especially after the construction of the Georgi Dimitrov Mausoleum. Major redesigns in the mid-20th century reoriented the garden towards the Ivan Vazov National Theatre. While some original features were lost, the garden retained its status as a beloved urban space."

"This is one of our favorite spots to rest, enjoy the views, watch the kids play and the best of all, you will see some tiny pollens flying in the air if it's spring and you will think you are in a magical movie!! "

"The City Garden is a beautiful scenic park with fountains, park benches, and greeneries, surrounded by some of the prettiest European-style buildings in the city."