Sarmadzhiev House, Neo-baroque monument in Sredets District, Sofia, Bulgaria
The Sarmadzhiev House is a two-story building at the intersection of Tsar Osvoboditel Boulevard and Krakra Street, blending Neo-baroque and Mediterranean Renaissance features. Its facade displays ornate details and decorative elements that reflect the prosperity of its original owner.
Architect Friedrich Grünanger designed the house in 1903 for lawyer Haralampi Sarmadzhiev as a distinguished residence. It transferred to Ottoman Empire ownership in 1916 and has remained connected to Turkish representation in Sofia ever since.
Inside, a museum room honors Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, who served as military attaché in Sofia between 1913 and 1915. Visitors can see furnishings and items that reflect his presence during those years.
The building currently serves as the residence of the Turkish ambassador and holds status as a protected cultural monument of national importance. Visits are typically arranged by prior arrangement, so travelers should contact the relevant authorities beforehand.
Ten years after completing this house, Grünanger replicated the architectural design for Villa Hedwig in Salzburg. This repetition reveals how successful and popular the Neo-baroque style was among European clients of that era.
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