Sofia Synagogue | Sofia

Information

Landmark: Sofia Synagogue
City: Sofia
Country: Bulgaria
Continent: Europe

Sofia Synagogue, Sofia, Bulgaria, Europe

The Sofia Synagogue is the largest Sephardic synagogue in Southeastern Europe, located at 16 Eksarh Iosif Street in the center of Sofia, Bulgaria. Completed in 1909, it is an active house of worship and serves as a major cultural landmark for the Bulgarian Jewish community.

Visual Characteristics

The building is a prime example of Bulgarian National Romanticism, incorporating Moorish Revival, Venetian Gothic, and Vienna Secessionist elements. It features a massive octagonal dome reaching 31 meters in height and a 2,200 kg brass chandelier, which is the largest in the Balkans. The interior is highly ornate, decorated with Venetian mosaics, Carrara marble columns, and intricate polychrome frescoes.

Location & Access Logistics

The synagogue is situated behind the Central Market Hall (Halite) in the historic core of Sofia. Access is provided via the Serdica Metro Station (Lines 1, 2, and 4), located 250 meters to the south. Tram lines 4, 12, 18, and 27 stop at the nearby Central Market Hall. Visitors must enter through a security checkpoint on Eksarh Iosif Street.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Designed by Austrian architect Friedrich Grünanger, the synagogue was built to accommodate the growing Jewish population of Sofia following the country's liberation. It was officially inaugurated in the presence of Tsar Ferdinand I. Despite suffering damage from Allied bombing in 1944, the building was meticulously restored to its original state.

Key Highlights & Activities

The main prayer hall has a capacity of 1,300 people. The second floor houses the Jewish Historical Museum, which details the history of Jewish communities in Bulgaria, their daily life, and the rescue of Bulgarian Jews during the Holocaust. Regular religious services are conducted according to the Sephardic rite.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The complex includes the museum, a library, and administrative offices. Public restrooms are available for visitors. Security is strict; identification is often required for entry. 5G cellular coverage is stable in the surrounding area. There is no public food service on-site, but the adjacent Central Market Hall offers various dining options.

Best Time to Visit

The synagogue and museum are open to visitors Sunday through Friday, typically from 09:00 to 17:00 (closing early on Fridays at 15:00). It is closed to tourists on Saturdays for Shabbat. Mid-morning is optimal for viewing the interior as natural light illuminates the stained glass and mosaics.

Facts & Legends

A specific architectural detail is the "Star of David" motifs integrated into every aspect of the design, from the window frames to the floor tiling. A logistical tip: as an active synagogue, modest dress is required, and men are provided with head coverings (kippot) at the entrance.