Saint Nicholas Church

Saint Nicholas Church is an Eastern Orthodox church in central Sofia topped with five gold-plated cupolas and ornate exterior decoration. The structure displays traditional Bulgarian and Byzantine architectural features visible in its colored walls and curved design elements.

The original building was founded in 1201 and stands on the site of an ancient Roman palace complex where Emperor Constantine the Great once resided. This layering of religious structure over classical history continues to mark the location.

The church serves as a gathering place for devotees honoring Saint Nicholas, especially on his feast day in December. The religious traditions and the saint's name shape how locals experience this sacred space.

The church stands on Kaloyan Street behind the Rila Hotel in the city center and is easily reached on foot. Visitors should know this is an active place of worship and should show respect for the religious setting when entering.

Beneath the building, preserved sections of the ancient Roman complex remain visible above ground, allowing direct connection with the time before nearly 2000 years ago. These archaeological remains make the link to Rome's classical past tangible.