Saint George Rotunda

Overview

The Church of Saint George is the oldest preserved building in Sofia, a late-antique red-brick rotunda built in the 4th century as part of the Roman city of Serdica. Tucked in the courtyard of the Presidency and the Sheraton Hotel, the small cylindrical building contains medieval frescoes layered over Roman-era paintings.

Highlights

• 14 Layers of Frescoes: Archaeologists have identified up to 14 layers of paintings spanning from the 4th to the 14th century.
• Roman Remains: The courtyard around the rotunda reveals open-air ruins of Roman streets and foundations from ancient Serdica.
• Changing of the Guard: The Presidency building next door has a formal changing of the guard ceremony hourly.

History

Originally a Roman bathhouse or temple, the structure was converted to a church in the 4th century. The Ottomans repurposed it as a mosque (Gül Camii), plastering over the frescoes. The Christian frescoes were rediscovered during restorations in the 20th century.

Visitor Tips

• Free Entry: The rotunda is free to enter—simply walk into the Presidency courtyard.
• Best Combination: Combine with the adjacent Largo and Ancient Serdica complex for a comprehensive Roman-era walk.
• Duration: 20–30 minutes.