The Old Town of Sozopol

Treasure of the Black Sea coast

The Old Town of Sozopol is one of the best preserved architectural and historical reserves in Bulgaria, declared as such in 1974. Located on a picturesque peninsula recessed into the Black Sea, it combines in a unique way ancient history, authentic Renaissance architecture and a unique maritime atmosphere.

Founded in 610 BC by Greek colonists under the name Apollonia Pontica, Sozopol is one of the most ancient cities on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast with a continuous 2,600-year history.

Architectural heritage

Sozopol Revival Houses
The iconic Sozopol houses of the XVIII-XIX centuries are a real architectural treasure. Characteristic of them are:

• Stone foundations and ground floors
• Wooden upper floors with typical bay windows
• Rich wooden decoration on the facades
• Specific black and white color gamut

Among the best preserved houses are:

• Marieta Stefanova's house
• House of Creanoolou
• Todor Zagorov's house

Fortress walls
Remains of the ancient fortress walls of Apollonia can be seen in several places in the Old Town, the most impressive of which are:

• The southern fortress wall
• The fortress gate at the church of St. Mother of God”

Religious monuments

Church of St. Mother of God”
Built in the XV century, this church impresses with its rich iconostasis of the XVIII century and the valuable collection of icons.

Church of St. Georgi”
The oldest preserved church in Sozopol, dating from the XIV century, with unique frescoes and wooden iconostasis.

Church of St. Cyril and Methodius”
Built in 1889 on the site of an older church, it is the largest in the Old Town.

Museums and galleries

Archaeological Museum
Located in the heart of the Old Town, the museum houses priceless artifacts from the region's 6,000-year history, including:

• Ancient Greek Ceramic Vessels
• Marble Statues
• Medieval coins and jewelry
• The relics with St. John the Baptist

Art Gallery
The gallery presents works by Bulgarian and foreign artists inspired by the beauty of Sozopol.

Ethnographic exhibition
It presents the traditional way of life, crafts and customs of the inhabitants of Sozopol from the past.

Stroll through the Old Town

The best way to get to know the charm of Old Sozopol is by walking along the narrow cobbled streets. Recommended route includes:

• Start from Khan Krum Square
• Visit to the Archaeological Museum
• Walk along the promenade with panoramic views
• Visiting the churches of St. Mother of God” and “St. Georgi”
• Visiting the Renaissance houses along Apollonia Street
• Rest in one of the authentic taverns overlooking the sea

Cultural events

The Old Town of Sozopol hosts numerous cultural events:

• Apollonia Arts Holidays (end of August - beginning of September)
• Fish and Wine Festival (May)
• Sozopol Art Week (July)
• Folklore festivals and concerts in the summer season

Practical information

Opening hours of museums:

• Summer season (May-October): 9:00-20:00 h.
• Winter season (November-April): 9am-5pm

Ticket prices:

• Archaeological Museum: 6 BGN for adults, 3 BGN for children
• Combined ticket for all museum objects: 10 BGN

Visitor Tips:

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the cobbled streets
• Best time to walk: early morning or dusk
• Book in advance for restaurants with sea views during peak season

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The architectural and historical reserve “Old Town of Sozopol” offers a unique opportunity to combine a beach holiday with a touch of the rich history and culture of ancient Apollonia. Our team in Sozopol will be happy to assist you in organizing your tour of this magical place.

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