Which cathedral in Sofia is Bulgaria’s largest cathedral and is dedicated to Saint Alexander Nevsky?

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in Sofia is Bulgaria’s largest cathedral and is dedicated to Saint Alexander Nevsky.

The cathedral was built as a memorial to Russian soldiers who died during the Russo-Turkish War of 1877–1878, which helped lead to Bulgaria’s liberation from Ottoman rule. Construction began in 1882, although the building was completed and consecrated decades later.

Its design is predominantly Neo-Byzantine, with a large central dome, multiple smaller domes, and a prominent bell tower. The interior contains extensive marble decoration, mosaics, and icons, reflecting the traditions of Eastern Orthodox church architecture.

The cathedral is one of Sofia’s best-known landmarks and stands near the city’s National Assembly building. Its name honors Alexander Nevsky, the medieval prince of Novgorod who was later canonized by the Russian Orthodox Church.