Church of St. Nicholas the Miracle-Maker — Attraction in Sofia City

A most unfortunate encounter with a brutish guard. Woe to people for whom this might be a first encounter with Orthodoxy.

Yesterday morning at 11:30 (03.02.23), my husband and I paid a visit to this exquisite temple having just arrived in Bulgaria. I was very much looking forward to entering this most beautiful of churches, to light a candle in front of the mosaic icon of St Nicholas and say a little thank you having arrived in Sofia for the first time safely from overseas, after a very long flight. Seeing that others were photographing/filming the church with their phones, I thought to take a picture myself (to send to my elderly, believing mother, but I suppose that is by the by), when to my absolute shock, a man, I suppose the guard (?), violently pulled my shoulder back and shouted (shouted!) ‘No photo’. I looked at him in utter disbelief as he repeated two or three times, with such an unpleasant, angry expression – ‘no photo’. I addressed the man in Russian, unfortunately I do not speak Bulgarian, and he repeated himself, aggressively in Bulgarian, and then retreated to continue his conversation with another man there. This was all whilst a Moleben’ was being served! My husband and I immediately left the church, as quickly as we possibly could. The physical aspect of this encounter left us wondering whether or not we ought to go straight to the police to report the brute. We have not.

I am a (Russian) Orthodox Christian of many years. I used to live in Russia, and studied theology there, and abroad, and I have led a fairly active life in the Church – all of this only to say that the beauty and joy and profundity of the Orthodox tradition is not entirely lost on me. And that, sadly, I am also not unfamiliar with the shameful, aggressive behaviour one sometimes has the misfortune of encountering on the part of overzealous, typically undereducated ‘custodians’ of the churches in former Soviet countries. But to discover this in Bulgaria…really has saddened my husband and me.

If ever the father who serves in this church happens to read this review – may we humbly ask that you 1) make your ‘no photographs’ signs super visible and obvious, and 2) strongly and emphatically instruct your guards to treat people who step into the church with kindness, love, and hospitality. When you think about it, it is an enormous honour and privilege for you that strangers, present company excepted, wander into your temple. 3) Instruct your guards to never, ever, ever (!) lay their hands on visitors.

We need to be better than this. A church building may be of incomparable physical beauty, but if the people inside have no love – then is it much more than...

The Church of St. Nicholas the Miracle-Maker in Sofia is a remarkable architectural and cultural gem located in the heart of Bulgaria's capital. Built in the early 20th century, this Orthodox church holds significant historical and religious importance for locals and visitors alike.

The church's design reflects a fusion of Russian Revival and Neo-Byzantine architectural styles, characterized by its striking domes and intricate exterior ornamentation. Its construction was initiated to honor the Russian soldiers who lost their lives during the Russo-Turkish War of 1877-1878, which led to Bulgaria's liberation from Ottoman rule.

Inside, visitors are greeted by stunning frescoes and iconography, showcasing the rich artistic tradition of Orthodox Christianity. The iconostasis, adorned with detailed religious paintings and icons, is a focal point of spiritual reverence within the church.

St. Nicholas the Miracle-Maker Church also holds deep cultural significance as a symbol of the enduring bond between Bulgaria and Russia. Over the years, it has become a place of pilgrimage and prayer, drawing believers seeking solace and spiritual connection.

Beyond its religious role, the church is an architectural landmark that adds to Sofia's diverse urban fabric. It stands as a testament to Bulgaria's history, resilience, and enduring faith, encapsulating the country's journey towards independence and its cultural ties with the Orthodox world.

In conclusion, the Church of St. Nicholas the Miracle-Maker is more than just a religious edifice; it is a living testament to Bulgaria's heritage and spirituality. Its beauty and historical context make it a must-visit attraction for anyone exploring Sofia's...

Sveti Nikolay Mirlikiiski is Russian Orthodox church in Sofia city centre..

Russian church design is extraordinary. The church was built on the site of the Saray Mosque, which was destroyed in 1882, after the liberation of Bulgaria by Russia from the Ottoman Empire. It was built as the official church of the Russian Embassy, which was located next door, and of the Russian community in Sofia, and was named, as was the tradition for diplomatic churches, for the patron saint of the Emperor who ruled Russia at the time, Nicholas II of Russia. The church was designed by the Russian architect Mikhail Preobrazhenski in the Russian Revival Style, with decoration inspired by the Muscovite Russian churches of the 17th century. The construction was supervised by the architect A. Smirnov, who was building the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral nearby. The exterior decoration of multicolored tiles was done by G. Kislichev, and the interior murals were painted by a team of artists led by Vasily Perminov, who also painted those in Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. The five domes are coated with gold. The bells were donated by Emperor...