Background

Doctors' Memorial: A Tribute to Medical Heroes

A serene Sofia park honoring the medics who gave their lives in the Russo-Turkish War, featuring historical monuments and peaceful gardens.

4.7

The Doctors' Memorial in Sofia's Doktorska Gradina commemorates the medics who perished in the Russo-Turkish War of 1877-1878. Designed by Antoniy Tomishko and built in 1884, the monument honors their service and sacrifice.

A brief summary to Doctors' Memorial

  • Sofia, Doktorska Gradina, 1000, BG
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit during the week to avoid weekend crowds, especially if you're seeking a quiet, reflective experience.
  • Take a stroll through the surrounding Doktorska Gradina park to enjoy the green space and historical atmosphere.
  • Look for the lapidarium in the park to see Roman architectural fragments from Sofia's past.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From the National Palace of Culture (NDK) in the city center, walk northeast on Vitosha Boulevard, then turn left onto Tsar Osvoboditel Blvd. Continue until you reach Doktorska Gradina park; the memorial will be within the park. The walk is approximately 20 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    Take the Sofia Metro to Serdika Station. From there, transfer to tram number 20 or 22. Ride the tram until you reach the 'Doktorska Gradina' stop. A single public transport ticket costs 1.60 BGN.

  • Taxi

    From Sofia Airport, a taxi to Doctors' Memorial typically costs 25-30 BGN and takes 20-30 minutes. Ensure the meter is running to avoid overcharges.

Unlock the Best of Doctors' Memorial

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Doctors' Memorial

Nestled within the lush Doktorska Gradina in Sofia, the Doctors' Memorial stands as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by medical professionals during the Russo-Turkish War of 1877-1878. This historical landmark, also known as the Doctor's Monument, pays tribute to the doctors, nurses, and other medical staff who lost their lives while serving with the Russian Red Cross Society. The memorial was constructed between 1883 and 1884, designed by Russian architect of Czech origin, Antoniy Tomishko, and with the help of Italian stonemason Luigi Farabosco. The monument is a truncated pyramid made of white sandstone blocks, topped with a granite sarcophagus. The names of 529 medical personnel are inscribed on its four sides. The sarcophagus bears the names of key battle sites: Pleven, Plovdiv, Shipka, and Mechka. Doktorska Gradina itself provides a tranquil setting for reflection. The park features walking paths, playgrounds, and benches, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. A lapidarium in the park's northeastern section displays Roman architectural fragments. The park and monument sit atop what was once a Turkish graveyard.

Popular Experiences near Doctors' Memorial

Popular Hotels near Doctors' Memorial

Select Currency