People planning a visit to Bulgaria should have a basic idea about Sofia history. Sofia is the administrative and cultural capital of Bulgaria and among its most heavily-toured destinations. Sofia's history span thousands of years and include some tumultuous times the city endured before emerging as one of Europe's prominent industrial and economic cities.

The history of Sofia has been documented back to approximately 500 B.C.  During this time, the city was home to numerous tribes. It was later captured by the raiding armies of Alexander the Great. During the 1st century A.D., Sofia was captured by the Romans, and it remained under Roman rule for hundreds of years. Its boundaries were fortified, and the groundwork for urban development was laid during this time. Sofia was then referred to as Serdica.

Around 809 A.D., Sofia had a distinct Slavic culture and was known as Sredets. It was part of the first Bulgarian Empire. The city was alternatively captured by the Bulgarian and Byzantine rulers across many centuries. The city was captured by the Byzantines in 1018 and once again in 1128. However, after 1191, Sofia was increasingly ruled as a part of the Bulgarian Empire. In 1376, the name Sofia surfaced for the first time.

Between the 12th and 13th century, Sofia emerged as a prominent center of trading, particularly of handmade crafts. During the Middle Ages, the city became a sought-after center for gold-works. Some of the decorative pieces created during this period are still present in displays across many museums in Bulgaria. During the 16th century, Sofia confirmed its status as a major trade center. It was frequented by the Turks, Ashkenazis, Armenians and the Greeks.

The Ottoman Empire has contributed to the cultural riches of Bulgaria. It gained a foothold in Sofia during the latter half of the 14th century. The city saw some battles during the Crusades, and the city’s landscape developed a unique, multicultural appearance. Many Persian-style buildings which were patronized by the Ottoman rulers.

The onset of the 20th century saw Sofia being overrun by bitter battles fought as a part of the Balkan Wars. Then, in 1918, World War I was thrust upon Bulgaria, and Sofia suffered greatly, losing many of its historical landmarks and sacrificing its people. The communist rule which followed ruled the country for many years. In 1990, free elections were held in Sofia, and the city emerged as the liberated, political stronghold in Bulgaria.