- Tourist Information
- Map
- Why is St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral from Sofia famous?
- Why is the cathedral named after St. Alexander Nevsky?
- What historical events have taken place at this cathedral?
- Who was the architect of the St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral?
- Cathedral’s domes and bell tower
- Are there any significant religious relics housed in the cathedral?
- What does the crypt contain?
Tourist Information
Type | Cathedral, Church |
Year | 1912 |
Opening hours | Typically open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM It’s best to check current hours before visiting |
Official Site | https://www.cathedral.bg/en/home/ |
Tickets | Free There may be a fee to visit the crypt and its museum. |
Guided tours | Guided tours are available in several languages, including Bulgarian, English, and Russian. |
Photo / Video | Photography is allowed but videography may be taxable. |
Location | Sofia Center, pl. “Sveti Aleksandar Nevski”, 1000 Sofia, Bulgaria, Europe |
Map
Why is St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral from Sofia famous?
St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is one of Neo-Byzantine architecture’s most impressive examples. Its grand domes, intricate mosaics, and richly decorated interior make it a significant architectural landmark. It symbolizes Bulgarian national identity and pride, reflecting the country’s religious and historical heritage.

It is one of the largest Eastern Orthodox cathedrals in the world. The cathedral covers an area of 3,170 square meters and can hold up to 5,000 people. Its central dome rises to a height of 45 meters, and the bell tower reaches 53 meters.

The construction of St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral began in 1882 and was completed in 1912.
The cathedral was built using Bulgarian limestone, Italian marble, and other imported materials, including onyx from Brazil and alabaster from Italy.
The cathedral’s interior is richly decorated with frescoes, mosaics, and icons created by Bulgarian, Russian, and other Eastern Orthodox artists. The mosaics and icons were created by a team of artists, including Bulgarian painter Anton Mitov and Russian artist Viktor Vasnetsov.

The St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is designed in the Neo-Byzantine style.
Why is the cathedral named after St. Alexander Nevsky?
The cathedral is named after St. Alexander Nevsky, a Russian prince and military leader. It was named in honor of him as a tribute to the Russian soldiers who died during the Russo-Turkish War (1877-1878), which led to Bulgaria’s liberation from Ottoman rule.
What historical events have taken place at this cathedral?
The cathedral has been the site of numerous important events, including state ceremonies, and religious celebrations, and it serves as a symbol of Bulgarian national identity and the Orthodox faith.

Who was the architect of the St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral?
The cathedral was designed by the Russian architect Alexander Pomerantsev.
Cathedral’s domes and bell tower
The central dome is gilded and represents the heavens. The bell tower contains 12 bells, with the largest weighing 12 tons, symbolizing the 12 apostles.
Are there any significant religious relics housed in the cathedral?
The cathedral houses relics of St. Alexander Nevsky and other saints.
It’s not certain that these are the relics of Alexander Nevsky, but the gilded chest claims so.

What does the crypt contain?
The crypt beneath the cathedral houses the Icon Museum, which features a vast collection of Bulgarian Orthodox icons from the 9th to the 19th century.
The church claims the museum contains the largest collection of Orthodox icons in Europe.