The fort is protected by the state since 1904, first as a national monument, and later as a place of cultural interest. The castle itself was rebuilt in the 20th century. It was built of red bricks which is typical for that area.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by MANUEL ZALDÍVAR

Castillo de la Mota has two main parts, its own citadel of three massive stone towers guarding the original Muslim town, and the dilapidated abbey of Santa Maria Mayor. Here we find the Gothic church of Iglesia San Miguel with a Renaissance facade and painting by El Greco and a mosque rebuilt in 1341 to the Church of Santo Domingo de Silos. If a hot weather is not a problem for you, you could climb to the tower of the fort where you can enjoy a beautiful view of the whole neighbourhood and the ancient town walls.

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Prehistoric settlements were excavated in the centre of the present city, near the royal palace, as well as in outer districts such as Slatina and Obelya. The well-preserved town walls (especially their substructures) from antiquity date back before the 7th century BC, when Thracians established their city next to the most important and highly respected mineral spring, still functioning today. Sofia has had several names in the different periods of its existence, and remnants from the city’s past can still be seen today alongside modern landmarks.

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