Visitthe magnificent Ivan Vazov National Theatre to admire opulent early-20th-centuryarchitecture and attend opera, ballet and theater performances. Enjoy people-watchingfrom the terrace of nearby cafés or relax in the peaceful Gradska Gradina (CityGarden). The Ivan Vazov National Theatre has three stages, with a combinedcapacity of over 1,000, and welcomes some of Bulgaria’s most revered theatricalperformers.

Builtin 1907 by famed Austrian architects Helmer and Felner, the theater is one ofSofia’s grandest landmarks. Stand back from the main entrance and admire thesymmetrical façade, dominated by a large portico and six columns. Check out thesculpture of Apollo and his muses, which adorns the pediment. Look up at thetwo twin towers, crowned by statues of Nike, the winged Greek goddess ofvictory.

Attenda performance to appreciate the theater’s interior. Shows range fromShakespearean plays to independent productions, ballets such as Don Juan and adaptations of famousnovels, such as One Flew Over theCuckoo’s Nest by Ken Kesey. If you visit the main hall, keep an eye out forthe intricate stage curtain, emblazoned with the motif of Stravinsky’s The Firebird.

Infront of the theater is a pleasant square with outdoor terraces of cafés. It’sa great place to sit, sip on a coffee or cold beer and people-watch.Alternatively, visit Gradska Gradina to see ornamental fountains, relax on opengreen lawns and watch locals play games of chess.

TheIvan Vazov National Theatre is a short walk from several of Sofia’s other majorlandmarks and attractions. Among these are the Church of St. George, NationalArt Gallery and Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. The nearest metro station isSerdika, which is a 10-minute walk away. If arriving by car there is meteredparking at the northern edge of Gradska Gradina.

Performances,mostly in Bulgarian, take place throughout the year and a schedule is availableon the theater’s official website.