Sofia
Sightseeing in Sofia
Sveta Petka Samardzhiiska Church
This quaint church was built in the 14th century during Ottoman rule, which explains why it is below ground level and very simple in its exterior. Apart from a small skylight, which is now blocked, there is no natural daylight inside. As you enter the church, be sure to make your way upstairs to see the remains of the murals, dating from the beginning of the 15th century, although the subject matter of the murals dates back to an era prior to Ottoman occupation.
The national hero, Vassil Levski, is said to have been buried here after been hanged by the Ottoman rulers and a bronze plaque on the wall commemorates that, though there is no proof that his remains lie here.
St.Petka functions as a normal church with regular services. A small ‘admission donation’ is requested to cover the expenses involved in keeping the church open.The nickname Samardzhiiska comes from the Bulgarian word for the leather craftsmen who supported the church and had their market nearby.
