St. Nedelya Church

Yet another splendid church anchoring the winding cobbled streets of Plovdiv, St Nedelya Church punctuates the city’s pleasingly old-fashioned charm with its Revival flair. It came to life in the mid-17th century and crumbled to the ground some decades later. With the efforts of patriots, the church rises once again similar to several other Bulgarian sanctuaries. For all the beauty nestled within it, it is its conspicuous tower that many hail as the church’s centerpiece. The adjacent yard huddles a complex of buildings that also inspires awe with its historical importance.

St Nedelya Church is a basilica with three naves connected by colonnaded lines. The themes of wisdom and religious imagery radiate through a dazzling combination of indigo and gold, constituting the signature element of its matchless character. At the center, a dark blue dome hovers over the main nave, lending it a resplendent air. A golden frame encircles everything of importance, from the murals on the walls to the arched windows. For the ultimate mastery in its design, check out the frescoes dating back to the 19th century. Also worth seeing is the second floor, which offers a lofty vantage point if you wish to get a feel of the size of St Nedelya Church.