Walkthrough the halls of a historic mosque and discover the archaeological historyof Bulgaria at the National Institute of Archaeology with Museum. See Stone andBronze Age tools and weaponry, ancient mosaics, religious icons, pottery andceramics. Established in 1892, the National Institute of Archaeology withMuseum’s goal is to promote the country’s culture and heritage.
Themuseum’s exhibits spread throughout an elegant 14th century building, whichonce served as the nine-domed Buyuk Mosque (Grand Mosque). There are fourpermanent exhibitions. Start in the Prehistory Hall to find artifacts that spanthe Paleolithic era through the Middle Bronze Age. Look for examples ofengraved rocks that date to around 50,000 B.C. and stone tools from Thrace, anancient region of southeastern Europe.
Go tothe Central Hall to see artifacts from the Late Bronze Age to the Late MiddleAges. Highlights include Greek and Roman sculptures and excavations from St.Sofia Church, including the original floor mosaic. In the Vault area, you’llfind some of Bulgaria’s most famous archaeological treasures, including goldand silver ornaments and jewelry.
Onthe museum’s second floor is the Middle Ages Hall, a display of Medieval armor,masks, paintings, pottery and tools, among other objects. Ask at the receptionabout temporary exhibitions. Previous topics have included displays of Scythianart from the former Soviet Union, a history of Christianity in Bulgaria and anexposition of pre-Columbian gold.
The NationalInstitute of Archaeology with Museum faces Antanas Burov Square in Sofia’s citycenter. It’s a short walk from major city attractions such as the Church of St.George, Saint Sofia Monument and the Ivan Vazov National Theatre. The closestmetro station is Serdika, about a 5-minute walk away. Metered parking isavailable at nearby Gradska Gradina (City Garden).
Themuseum is open from Tuesday to Sunday and there is an admission fee. Guidedtours are available in English for an extra cost. Consult the museum’s officialwebsite for complete opening times and further information about temporaryexhibitions.
