Cultural Complex "Ancient Serdika"

"The ancient fortress of Serdika, a significant archaeological site in Sofia, is showcased in the underpass between the Presidency and the Council of Ministers. Renovation and exposure of the fortress's eastern gate took place between 1997 and 1999, revealing layers of history beneath the modern city. Founded around 2000 BC by the Thracian tribe Serdi, Serdika thrived near natural hot mineral springs. The town gained prominence in the 1st century AD when it was conquered by the Romans, who recognized its strategic importance. Under Emperor Marcus Ulpius Trajan (98–117), the settlement was renamed Ulpia Serdika and became a key administrative center. Serdika was favored by Emperor Constantine the Great (306–337), who famously referred to it as "my Rome." It was here that he decided to move the capital of the Eastern Roman Empire to Constantinople, ruling from Serdika until the new city was established. During the reigns of Emperors Marcus Aurelius and Commodus around 175, Serdika was fortified with a wall featuring four gates and observation towers facing each cardinal direction. A second outer wall was added in the 5th to 6th centuries. The city's layout included paved streets leading to a forum located beneath what is now Sveta Nedelya Square. Lavish villas equipped with sewage systems and water mains lined the streets, while the administrative buildings were positioned in the fortress's southwest quadrant. Archaeological excavations near the western gate have uncovered remnants of residential structures, public buildings, ceramics, and other artifacts. In recognition of its historical significance, the central area of Sofia, encompassing the ancient Serdika and medieval Sredets, was designated as a historical and archaeological reservation in 1976, preserving the rich cultural heritage of this ancient site for future generations."