Sofia Synagogue

The Central Sofia Synagogue opened on 9 September 1909 in the presence of King Ferdinand and Queen Eleonore. Designed by Friedrich Grünanger, it replaced the earlier Ahava ve Chesed synagogue and combines Spanish-Moorish forms with elements of Viennese Secession. Its octagonal sanctuary, surrounding galleries and central dome are enriched with Venetian mosaics, marble columns and ornamental carving. The building suffered damage during the bombing of Sofia in April 1944 and was designated a cultural monument of national importance in 1956. It remains a place of Jewish worship, with major religious celebrations held in the principal sanctuary and daily services in a smaller prayer room.