Travel back in time in this gorgeous bathhouse, from the bathhouse to the museum 🏛 #RegionalHistoryMuseumofSofia-SofiaBulgaria

#September2025 The Museum of the History of Sofia, officially known as the Regional Historical Museum – Sofia, is the central cultural institution of Sofia, Bulgaria's capital. Its uniqueness lies not only in its extensive collections but also in the iconic building itself, the Central Mineral Baths of Sofia. The museum is housed in the renowned Central Mineral Baths (Tsentralna mineralna banya). Built in the early 20th century, this magnificent structure blends architectural styles such as Vienna Secession, Neo-Byzantine, and Bulgarian National Revival. Its colorful ceramic decorations and ornate facade make it one of the city's most striking landmarks. Originally a public bathing and hydrotherapy facility, the baths operated until 1986. After extensive restoration and renovation, the historic building officially opened in September 2015 as the permanent home of the Regional Historical Museum of Sofia, giving new life to this city treasure. The permanent exhibition at the Sofia Regional History Museum covers a rich history spanning over 8,000 years, from the 6th century BC to the 1940s. Divided into eight halls, the exhibition systematically recounts the development of one of Europe's oldest cities. Precious artifacts include prehistory and antiquity, the Middle Ages, the Ottoman period, and the Bulgarian Kingdom period. With over 120,000 movable cultural relics, the museum offers a valuable window into the history of Sofia and even Bulgaria. Beyond the exhibitions within the main building, the museum's location and surroundings are also captivating. Nearby attractions include the Ancient Serdica Complex, the Banya Bashi Mosque, and the St. George Rotunda Church. The Sofia Regional History Museum captivates visitors not only with its rich historical collections but also with its elegant architecture and vibrant mineral water culture, making it an ideal starting point for experiencing the soul of Sofia.