Patriarchal Cathedral of St. Alexander Nevsky image

Patriarchal Cathedral of St. Alexander Nevsky

Tourist attraction Cathedral Eastern orthodox church

One of the Best Places To Visits in Oborishte


Address

Sofia Center, pl. "Sveti Aleksandar Nevski", 1000 Sofia, Bulgaria

Website

www.cathedral.bg

Contact

+359 2 988 1704

Rating on Google Maps

4.70 (19.1K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Saturday: 7 AM to 7 PM
  • Sunday: 7 AM to 7 PM
  • Monday: 7 AM to 7 PM
  • Tuesday: 7 AM to 7 PM
  • Wednesday: 7 AM to 7 PM
  • Thursday: 7 AM to 7 PM
  • Friday: 7 AM to 7 PM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: cathedral (41) Sofia (34) church (29) beautiful (26) pictures (22) visit (21) Cathedral (17) architecture (13) Nevsky (13) history (13)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Ovidiu B. 2 years ago on Google
    If you’re a tourist in Sofia don’t forget to visit this cathedral. It’s beautiful, it’s impressive, it’s a must see in Sofia. You don’t have to be a christian. :)
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Joshua K. 2 years ago on Google
    Very beautiful cathedral. One of the most remarkable from the exterior. A genuine marvel. Inside it is dark, I found a priest smoking, he yelled at me about taking a picture. I thought how ironic, if something is to desecrate a house of worship, certainly smoking would be worse than a picture. Inside, it's a bit more open, dark, and depressing. Worth a visit if you're close! Walls are probably stained with smoke.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Seda 2 years ago on Google
    It’s definitely a very good piece of architecture, but the interior lighting is extremely poor. Therefore it’s extremely hard to see the fresks inside. To be fair, it’s quite dark, and there’s almost no natural light. I don’t really see why they charge you when you get a picture. I think it’s safe to take a pic or two, without flash of course. I believe charging money within religious temples is unbecoming. Also for such a well-known landmark in Sofia there was no information in English for tourists. There was one outside but it was a very bad condition, couldn’t read anything. Overall I’d recommend to see it and maybe take a pic outside of the building.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Vincent S. 1 year ago on Google
    Beautiful cathedral that is the absolute highlight of visiting Sofia. Mesmerising and magnificent on the inside and outside. It closes at 7 pm but they don't let anyone in a bit before that so if you are visiting it I would recommend the morning!! The walk from city centre is only 20 minutes and is absolutely worth doing it as there are beautiful buildings and parks to see on the way there!!
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Elias C. 7 months ago on Google • 626 reviews
    I had the incredible opportunity to visit the St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral during my recent trip, and I must say, it left me awe-inspired. The cathedral's architecture is a true masterpiece that beautifully blends history, spirituality, and grandeur. As I approached the cathedral, its magnificent domes glistened in the sunlight, casting a spellbinding reflection in the nearby pond. The sheer scale of the cathedral is jaw-dropping, and it truly stands as a testament to the dedication and craftsmanship of the artisans who brought this vision to life. The cathedral's ambiance is peaceful and serene, making it an ideal place for introspection and reflection. I spent a considerable amount of time simply absorbing the beauty of the architecture and the peaceful atmosphere. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or someone seeking a moment of spiritual solace, the St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral offers an experience that is bound to leave a lasting impression. The cathedral's location is also advantageous, nestled within a charming part of the city with ample opportunities to explore the surrounding area. The guides on site were knowledgeable and enthusiastic, providing valuable insights into the cathedral's history and significance. Visiting the St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral was an enriching experience that I will cherish for a lifetime. I highly recommend adding this architectural marvel to your must-visit list when in the area. It's not just a cathedral; it's a living piece of history that exudes an aura of majesty and spirituality.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Rhys T. 2 months ago on Google • 1115 reviews New
    Amazing interior and beautifully lit at night. Definitely a must see during the day and night time especially when it's covered in snow the other day. Shame you would have to pay for taking videos or photos inside.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Anton D. 2 years ago on Google
    The St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is a Bulgarian Orthodox cathedral in Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria. Built in Neo-Byzantine style, it serves as the cathedral church of the Patriarch of Bulgaria and it is believed to be one of the 50 largest Christian church buildings by volume in the world. It is one of Sofia's symbols and primary tourist attractions.The St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in Sofia occupies an area of 3,170 square metres and can hold 5,000 people inside.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Seah Shao Jun N. 5 months ago on Google • 259 reviews
    A must-visit in Sofia! This cathedral is a true piece of art that combines history, religion and grandeur into a single entity. It is really gorgeous and looks wonderful from all angles. Moreover, entrance is free! Within the cathedral, you can experience peace and serenity, making it an perfect opportunity for self-reflection. I spent about an hour in it to take in the magnificence of the architecture and the peaceful environment. Moreover, the cathedral is located conveniently in the city center. So you can visit other attractions after this just by walking a bit. There are many delicious F&B outlets available should you crave some food after visiting here. There is also a street market nearby which sells different souvenirs, some of which are vintage, at reasonable prices.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Hasnain Nurdin (. 5 months ago on Google • 465 reviews
    Ok so unfortunately I couldn't take any pictures inside of the Cathedral, but that's not a problem ☺️ because by not taking pictures you are more present in the moment, you can appreciate the art, colours, the light and the darkness in the Cathedral. The history of the building and it's aww for what it is. Please note that they do not want visitors to take pictures inside of the Cathedral so please respect people's faith and culture and always ask questions to staff if you are unsure. There are do not take pictures of photos signs all over and inside. They do not want flashing lights or pictures to be taken, if you are seen doing so you will be told off by a member of staff, rightly so! I really liked this Cathedral it's definitely worth visiting 😁
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Gábor K. 2 years ago on Google
    Iconic building of Sofia. Free entry, photo ticket is 10 leva, worths to see it from inside too!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sahar I. K. 10 months ago on Google
    One of the most beautiful cathedral I've ever visited. Being a Muslim I was spell bound. Pictures and videos are strictly not allowed, though just a part of church is open for visitors. We offered the 10 Lev to take pictures but still the person in charge didn't allow us. When we went last weekend some construction work was going on outside the church. A nearby metro station is located for easy access.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Orestis -. 1 year ago on Google
    Admittedly, it is a large church, but nothing special architecturally. At night, however, it looks very impressive, due to the lighting that makes it look like it is floating. The interior is of no interest.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sandy T. 2 years ago on Google
    Stunning cathedral from the inside and outside. It is placed in the middle of the city center that is rich in numerous historic, religious, artistic and cultural sights. This temple is the symbol of Sofia with its spectacular external golden domes. It is a must see place in Sofia and you're gonna enjoy the walking tour around.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ashley B. 1 year ago on Google
    St. Alexander Nevsky is a beautiful cathedral and a must see while in Sofia! It serves as the cathedral church of the Patriarch of Bulgaria and is one of the 50 largest Christian church buildings, by volume, in the world. St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in Sofia occupies an area of 3,170 square metres (34,100 sq ft) and can hold 5,000 people inside. It is among the 10 largest eastern Orthodox church buildings and is the largest cathedral in the Balkans. It is believed that up until the year 2000 it was the largest finished Orthodox cathedral. Absolutely stunning 😍
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Harshil D. 5 months ago on Google • 114 reviews
    An iconic landmark for Bulgaria with lots of rich history. The cathedral is really beautiful and looks wonderful from all viewing angles. The entrance to the cathedral is free. This is a must visit attraction while visiting Sofia. Nearby attractions include Russian Orthodox Church which is also very beautiful.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Alexis B. 4 weeks ago on Google • 96 reviews New
    what a beautiful heritage to bulgaria. i dont know if i got lucky but it was fully lit in my visit and the monks were chanting too. thank you bulgaria for producing a cathedral that is the epitome of a heavenly atmosphere
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sarah S. 3 weeks ago on Google • 66 reviews New
    Beautiful church here in Sofia! It's definitely worth visiting. The architecture is grand and one of my favourite buildings that I've seen here as yet. Would highly recommended to see if you're visiting Sofia.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ally H. 1 year ago on Google
    Breathtaking cathedral!! This cathedral is the star of Sofia and I highly recommend going! You can park on the side and enter. Don’t stay longer than two hours or you have to pay for parking I believe? No photos or video are allowed inside but the cathedral is gorgeous and very grand! The staff was very kind! You must must must go here while in Sofia!!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Chris A. 8 months ago on Google
    Beautiful old Cathedral with intricate carvings and breathtaking details. Huge chandeliers suspend over the place and the alcoves hold a great deal of minute details that you could study for a long time. The only drawback is that you have to pay to take pictures inside and there are staff members policing this constantly which really takes away from the atmosphere inside.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 denise m. 2 years ago on Google
    This is an amazingly beautifully decorated interior. İ read that it will hold 10,000 people. No photos of interior allowed. Please respect this request.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Henry W. 2 years ago on Google
    Stunning architecture with all sorts in interesting details from all sides. Make sure to check out the mosaics on top of the doors and the beautiful frescoes in the ceilings. It’s also free to enter but a bit dark inside.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 eleni l. 10 months ago on Google
    The cathedral is huge and very beautiful on the outside. At the inside it has great pieces of marble and some nice icons but overall all the frescoes are black and need conservation. In areas where there was no light you could not see a thing because they are old and black from the candles. The gardens outside are marvellous.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 ム I. 7 months ago on Google
    Really beautiful church, free entrance only cost is to take pictures or record however not everybody does that some people just take pictures anyways, what is sad is that the church isn't lit up at night which makes the view worse only thanks to long exposer settings i managed to get a really nice picture
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Philippe L. 1 year ago on Google
    Beautiful church that deserves a national restoration effort and much better lighting (particularly nowadays that there are many lighting technologies that will not alter the pigments of painting or mosaics). The sad bit of that your camera will see better than what your eyes can see inside the church. I have posted some pictures of what my phone sees and what we could see (using the dynamic for) if better lit and renovated. To take pictures you will need to buy a ticket costing 10 LV at the entrance of the church (otherwise some people inside will chase after you for that ticket). There is also no signs giving you the history of the place... So you will need to arrange for a tour guide to learn the history of the place. There is no guide at the entrance of the church so that's something to arrange online.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 tskumar 6 months ago on Google
    A must visit place. The architecture is gorgeous. Entry is free but you take photos, you have to pay a little. The paintings of the walls and under the roof is interesting. Parking places are available but to pay with a specific app or sending SMS from the local number.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Liz 1 year ago on Google
    Beautiful inside and out. The architecture is fascinating. Can't skip it, if you come to Sofia.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Up U. 1 year ago on Google
    The architecture of this church is just beyond beautiful. The exterior patina against the limestone is gorgeous when lit by the setting sun and the evening lights. The interior is filled with murals on the walls and ceilings along with all the usual decor of a catholic church. It is absolutely beautiful inside and out but if you want to take photos on the inside you must make a donation and you cannot use a flash.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Selontour 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful cathedral ⛪ With its fascinating architectural structure. A must visit place in Sofia
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Natalie T. 3 months ago on Google • 308 reviews New
    This is the main highlight of Sofia. A marvel of architecture and engineering! Absolutely a gem and a definite must-visit in Sofia right in the city center. One downside: you will need to pay in order to take photos inside the premises. I did not bother to do so-- plenty on the internet to see, anyway! The free sofia walking tour covers this as part of the scheduled stops and gives loads of information live.

  • 5/5 Kristina IT E. 2 months ago on Google • 259 reviews New
    Beautiful outside and inside. There’s also a Christmas market outside in December. There are also vendors selling antique items between the church and bus stop. It was easy to find using public transportation.

  • 5/5 Vishal S. 3 weeks ago on Google • 61 reviews New
    The Patriarchal Cathedral of St. Alexander Nevsky is a magnificent testament to Bulgarian history and religious heritage. Its awe-inspiring architecture, adorned with intricate details and golden domes, captivates visitors from afar. Stepping inside, one is enveloped in a sense of reverence and grandeur, as the cathedral's interior boasts stunning frescoes and ornate decorations. As a symbol of national pride, it stands as a must-visit landmark in Sofia, offering a glimpse into Bulgaria's rich cultural and spiritual legacy.

  • 5/5 lubieimbir 2 months ago on Google • 50 reviews New
    This cathedral has its own unique charm, which is both captivating and majestic. It is essential to remember that this is a space for prayer and silent contemplation. To record videos or take pictures you should pay a nominal charge at the entry. It is without a doubt worthy to pay visit. Enjoy!

  • 5/5 ISole 3 months ago on Google • 48 reviews New
    A stunning place to visit. This cathedral is 53 metres high and is the largest in the Balkans. It can hold up to 5000 people inside. Beware that you cannot take pictures inside - you have two options: to pay 10 lev to take pictures or to confront a man taking care of the cathedral inside and having a great eye for those who try to sneak a photo :)

  • 4/5 Carole R. 7 months ago on Google
    I visited on a Saturday and was surprised to find it was really quiet. If you want to take photos you need to buy a ticket for 3 Bulgarian lev as you enter the cathedral. Best to keep your ticket visible so you’re not constantly asked if you have one when you are inside taking photos.

  • 5/5 Marc A. 7 months ago on Google
    This cathedral must be visited when you travel to Bulgaria. It is a very important attraction of the capital! 😀I’ve been taking pictures inside and outside and I am very happy. This cathedral is beautiful 😍

  • 5/5 Luca P. 6 months ago on Google
    ‼️BRIEFLY 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟This Orthodox church is probably among the most beautiful I ever saw. ❗HOW DOES IS WORK? To get in is free but you have to pay to visit the crypt which acts as museum.

  • 5/5 Antonieta Ponce de L. 2 years ago on Google
    Very beautiful Christian Orthodox Church. All churches are free of charge, you need to pay to be able to take pictures inside, 10 lv It is on a central square, it’s is worth a visit on the inside and out.

  • 5/5 I. P. 5 months ago on Google
    I can easily say it’s Bulgaria’s most beautiful cathedral. Its domes look magnificent in the sun and when you walk in, the building looks gigantic. I’m not religious but I admire this great building every time I visit.

  • 5/5 Ashish C. 2 years ago on Google
    A must see , its a beautiful cathedral inside and out. Photos are not allowed inside without buying a ticket first. Go in the morning so you could be there during prayer times , its an amazing experience.

  • 4/5 Marc S. 3 months ago on Google New
    Beautiful cathedral, although I was hoping to see it from a higher vantage point. Interior is dark, and not overly impressive. 10 lev to take photos

  • 5/5 Jon N. 3 months ago on Google New
    An impressive building in Sofia not to be missed. interior is also equally impressive. No entrance fee to enter

  • 5/5 Andrey R. 2 months ago on Google • 9 reviews New
    Visiting the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral on a frosty January morning at sunrise was a mesmerizing experience. The cathedral's architectural grandeur combined with the serene atmosphere created a captivating moment. The early light illuminated the intricate details, enhancing the beauty of this historical landmark. Overall, our visit left a lasting impression, and we thoroughly enjoyed the unique charm of the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in the tranquil winter dawn.

  • 4/5 Nitya R. 2 years ago on Google
    An open area right in the center of the city. The cathedral and it's surroundings are sooo big with several gardens around. They also seem to host different fairs, the time I visited, they had an art fair in a nearby garden beside the embassy lane.

  • 4/5 mudit r. 1 year ago on Google
    The church was built to commemorate bulgarian-russian-ukranian victory over the ottomans. Grandeur at its best. Beautiful from inside. Modern when compared to Sveta Nedelya Church but still has a different experience. Still would prefer Sveta Nedelya Church over most of the churches in Europe.

  • 5/5 Vasileios K. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful cathedral, very well maintained is a must if you are around the area or just visit Sofia. You need to pay extra 3€ if you want to take photo's. Across the church on the park there is a great area selling beautiful icon's and pictures using interesting technics

  • 5/5 Jimmy L. 1 year ago on Google
    Absolutely stunning building and the lighting they have at night is just breathtaking. It’s a must see location if you visit Sofia! There are also some really nice parks in the area if you enjoy a good stroll in the evening.

  • 5/5 Avihay F. 1 year ago on Google
    A must-see site in Sofia! The great cathedral is built in a neo-Byzantine style, and its golden domes are gleaming and visible from a distance. Alexander Nevsky, after whom the cathedral is named, was a Russian general and leader in the 13th century. At the same time, this cathedral was built as a monument in memory of 200,000 Bulgarian, Russian, Ukrainian and Belarusian soldiers who were killed in the war between Russia and the Ottoman Empire in 1877. The building was built between 1882 and 1912, it rises to about 76 meters, is 53 meters long and can accommodate up to 5,000 people. The best artists from Russia and Bulgaria are responsible for the design and decoration of the place with stained glass windows, beautiful marble in the entrance, Venetian mosaic and dramatic murals, which make the place spectacular in its beauty inside and out. Free entrance, taking pictures / videos inside costs money. There is a souvenir shop at the entrance of the Cathedral.

  • 5/5 Andreas M. 1 year ago on Google
    Definitely worth visiting St. Alexander's Nevsky Cathedral. We visited Sofia in Easter time and the experience was something different for me and my friends. I Highly recommend you to visit this emblematic building.

  • 4/5 Ayşe betül H. 1 year ago on Google
    I really liked city of Plovdiv ( Filibe). Sofia was nice too but i could not see as much as historical sites what i expected. I can say i liked Plovdiv more than Sofia, it worth to go! Food was not good though. As a Turkish woman I did not like the food.

  • 5/5 Amanda H. 1 year ago on Google
    Such a beautiful church. Must see when in Sofia! It's free to enter, but costs 10 lev to take pictures inside. We were asked multiple times for proof to take pictures. You can also buy candles and light them inside - very beautiful experience.

  • 5/5 Marios C. 1 year ago on Google
    Very impressive church! I suggest to visit it during Sunday liturgy. The choir that sings there is amazing!

  • 5/5 Bojan B. 2 years ago on Google
    Impressive ortodox church great for start of Sofia centre exploration.

  • 5/5 Denise De F. 1 year ago on Google
    Gorgeous interior that matches the grandness of the exterior. With the gregorian chants in the background it does bring a sensation of calm and inner peace. You have to pay to take pictures of the interior or to film. There are some watchdogs that will chase you over and ask for proof of payment.

  • 5/5 Carlo Alberto F. 1 year ago on Google
    One of Sofia's symbols, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral was built to worship the sacrifice of Russian Soldiers during the Russian -Turkish War of 1877, which lead the the independence of the country. While being magnificent from outside, inside it is very spacious and decorated with beautiful Chandeliers. You can enter for free but if you want to take pictures inside it is necessary to pay 10 Levs (5 Euros)

  • 4/5 Bahman Y. 7 months ago on Google
    Nice place in this area you can see or buy Very old equipment from Badgers for yours Collection. In the left side of this church there is historical church and museum whit the name of st. Sophia I recommend to see this church also, I kept some photos and clipe of this place.

  • 5/5 Amanda D. 10 months ago on Google
    One of the few decent things to do in Sofia. You get a real sense of history when you enter. A really beautiful old building. Definitely worth spending time learning about the history.

  • 4/5 Marko H. 10 months ago on Google
    A beautiful church that you must visit. As stunning as it looks from the outside, its interior will leave you breathless. Prepare 10 leva if you want to paint the inside.

  • 5/5 Michael M. 11 months ago on Google
    Stunning church. Beautiful architecture and decoration. Entrance is free but if you want to take photos you need to purchase a pass. I really enjoyed the visit. Peaceful.

  • 2/5 Michał R. 10 months ago on Google
    Surprisingly the cathedral didn’t impress me. I am quite a fan of sacral building yet this one feels empty from the inside. It is very compact and dull. There isn’t any introduction to the history of this place, so it lacks basic tourists’ infrastructure which could be solved with just one brochure. From the outside the building is surrounded by a huge open parking space, which kills the vibe.

  • 5/5 jurica v. 7 months ago on Google
    The biggest Bulgarian cathedral. It looks very impressive from outside. Inside is little bit empty and not so glamorous as typical Orthodox cathedrals of that size and importance.

  • 4/5 Lilit _. 8 months ago on Google
    Probably one of the most picturesque places to see in Sofia. The entrance is free. It's on a walkable distance from the city center (10 min). Worth a visit once you're there.

  • 5/5 kira l. 8 months ago on Google
    A really really beautiful thing to see, I saw it in the daytime but couldn’t get enough so went back and watched the sunset! Unfortunately there was a lot construction when I went, but if in Sofia, I would definitely go again.

  • 3/5 Irina S. 2 years ago on Google
    The outside is stunning. The golden domes shine even when it is cloudy. Inside is dark, not all candles are lit even though most are electric. The dome is impressive but black so you can't see many of the icons. I still recommend going in and seeing the marble thrones. The entrance is free. Paying 10 lev for photos is not worth it with the current condition of the inside.


Call +359 2 988 1704 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible entrance
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible parking lot

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