Statue of Sveta Sofia

The Statue of Sveta Sofia is a bronze sculpture in the Vazrazhdane District standing 8.80 meters tall with outstretched arms. It wears a crown and wreath, with an owl displayed on its pedestal.

The monument was erected in 2000, replacing a communist-era statue that previously occupied the site. This shift marked a turning point in how the capital expressed its artistic direction after the change in political system.

The statue merges features of holy Sofia and the goddess Athena, representing wisdom through ancient and modern artistic symbols. The owl on the pedestal recalls the classical link between knowledge and protection.

The monument stands in the heart of the Vazrazhdane District and serves as a recognizable landmark and photography spot for visitors. The site is easily accessible and widely used as a natural meeting point.

The Church played a key role in the naming, originally rejecting the name Saint Sofia due to concerns about pagan associations in the sculptural form. This religious influence on artistic design reveals tensions between modern creation and traditional belief.

Location: Vazrazhdane District

Inception: 2000

Creator: Георги Чапкънов

Height: 8.8 m

Subject: wisdom, allegory

Made from material: bronze

Website: https://photos.app.goo.gl/gdgpR3p63P8QKVP66

GPS coordinates: 42.69796,23.32140

Latest update: December 18, 2025 23:15