Bulgaria Sofia Sofia Center Square

Slaveykov Square

About

Slaveykov Square, nestled in the heart of Sofia between Rakovski Street and Graf Ignatiev Boulevard, is a lively cultural landmark named after the father-son literary duo Petko and Pencho Slaveykov. A bronze sculpture of the two seated on a bench invites passersby to pause and reflect on Bulgaria’s literary heritage. Once known as Kafene Başi during Ottoman times, the square evolved into a bustling crossroads and later a residential area after Bulgaria’s liberation. In the 20th century, it gained fame as the city’s open-air book market, a tradition that continues today with modernized stalls and a vibrant atmosphere. The square is also home to the Sofia City Library and surrounded by historic buildings, cafés, and shops, making it a favorite meeting spot for locals and visitors alike. With its blend of literary legacy, architectural charm, and everyday bustle, Slaveykov Square captures the spirit of Sofia’s cultural and civic life.

Sofia Bulgaria

Location

Slaveykov Square is located in the very heart of Sofia, nestled between Georgi S. Rakovski Street and Graf Ignatiev Street, making it one of the city’s most central and lively public spaces. The square is famous for its open-air book market and the life-sized sculpture of Bulgarian writers Petko and Pencho Slaveykov, which is a popular spot for photos. For tourists, the square is surrounded by a vibrant mix of bookstores, cafés, and restaurants, creating a welcoming atmosphere for browsing and people-watching. The Sofia City Library is at the end of the square, and the Municipal Theatre Vazrazhdane is nearby, offering cultural experiences just steps away. Slaveykov Square is just a few blocks south of the City Garden and the Ivan Vazov National Theatre, and it’s within a 15-minute walk of major attractions like Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and Borisova Gradina Park. The House Museum of Petko and Pencho Slaveykov and the Peyu Yavorov Museum are also close, making the square an ideal starting point for exploring Sofia’s literary and cultural heritage.

National Historical Museum