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Situated in the Balkan region of Southeastern Europe, Sofia is the capital and the most populated city in the Republic of Bulgaria. The 2,200-year-old city is the second oldest of all settlements in the entire continent. It is distinguished by its mix of European and Communist-style architecture, as well as by its many lavish orthodox churches. The city sits on a pile of primeval settlements, hence, it is known for its archeological artifacts and still-operational ancient hot springs, which are set against rows of skyscrapers and other monuments of the modern age.
Old meets new
Since it was occupied by the Ottomans for five centuries, Sofia is decidedly Ottoman-from its medieval shrines to its modern museums, music and nightlife. Mehanis, which take root from Turkish bars, are a traditional way to enjoy Sofia's nightlife and Bulgarian music. Bashi, another Ottoman legacy, is an archaeological museum built inside an old mosque that serves as the repository of the city's rich past.
Paintings and frescoes
Tourists in Sofia can also discover and marvel at some of Europe's most well-preserved eastern medieval paintings, which are inside the Boyana Church, erected during the 13th century. With its world-acclaimed historic frescoes dating back to 1259, it has earned the honor of being instituted as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979.
Adventures of different sorts
The city is also home to Bulgaria's national library, the SS Cyril and Methodius National Library. In it, visitors can set their eyes upon hordes of important and historical books, manuscripts, documents and arts-most of which date back to the 11th to 19th centuries. Just on the city's edge, there looms the Vitosia Mountain, one of the city's most popular tourist destinations for those looking for hiking, skiing and other recreational adventures.
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