The Serenity of Sofia: Central Mosque of Banya Bashi
Discover the Central Mosque of Sofia, an architectural masterpiece and a serene oasis in the heart of Bulgaria's capital, reflecting rich cultural heritage.
The Central Mosque of Sofia, also known as Banya Bashi Mosque, is a magnificent representation of Ottoman architecture and a central hub for the Muslim community in Bulgaria. Located in the heart of Sofia, this historic mosque offers visitors a glimpse into the cultural and religious tapestry of the city. With its stunning minaret and beautifully adorned interiors, it stands as a peaceful sanctuary amid the bustling urban landscape.
A brief summary to Central Mosque of Sofia - Banya Bashi Mosque
- Knyagina Maria Luisa Blvd 18, Sofia, Sofia Center, 1000, BG
- +35929816001
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-10 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-10 pm
- Thursday 6 am-10 pm
- Friday 6 am-10 pm
- Saturday 6 am-10 pm
- Sunday 6 am-10 pm
Local tips
- Dress modestly when visiting the mosque to respect local customs.
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience.
- Take time to explore the surrounding area for local cafes and historical sites.
- Check for prayer times to plan your visit accordingly and experience the mosque in use.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, head towards Sofia city center. From Moesia, take the A1 motorway until you reach Sofia. Once in Sofia, follow signs for 'Sofia Center'. Use GPS coordinates 42.6996, 23.3224 to navigate directly to the Central Mosque of Sofia - Banya Bashi Mosque located at Knyagina Maria Luisa Blvd 18, 1000 Sofia. Parking is available nearby but may incur a fee, so be prepared with some Bulgarian Lev for parking meters.
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Public Transportation - Bus
To reach the mosque using public transportation, start by finding your nearest bus station in Moesia. Take a bus heading to Sofia, which will typically take about 1 to 1.5 hours depending on traffic. Once you arrive at Sofia Central Bus Station, exit the station and walk to the nearby Metro station 'Serdika'. Take Metro Line 1 (the red line) towards 'Mladost 3' and get off at 'Serdika' station. From there, it's about a 10-minute walk to the mosque. Follow the signs towards Knyagina Maria Luisa Blvd.
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Public Transportation - Tram
If you prefer trams, once in Sofia, you can take Tram 18 from the Sofia Central Bus Station. Ride the tram until you reach the 'Banya Bashi' stop, which is very close to the mosque. Tram tickets can be purchased from ticket machines or vendors near the tram stations and cost around 1.60 BGN. Make sure to validate your ticket before boarding.
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Walking
If you find yourself near Sofia's city center, the mosque is accessible by foot. From popular landmarks like Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, head southwest along Vasil Levski Blvd, then turn right onto Knyagina Maria Luisa Blvd. The mosque is located at number 18 on this street. It's a pleasant walk through the city, taking around 20 minutes.
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