Fortress Serdica (Sofia (София))

The origins of the settlement, later known as Serdica, date back to the 2nd millennium BC, when the Thracian tribe of the Serdi settled here, attracted by the warm mineral springs. In the 1st century AD, the Romans took control of the city, recognizing its strategic importance. Under Emperor Marcus Ulpius Traianus (98-117), the city was named Ulpia Serdica and developed into an important administrative center. Emperor Constantine the Great (306-337) particularly valued Serdica and is said to have called it “my Rome.” It was also here that the decision was made to move the capital of the Eastern Roman Empire to Constantinople. Around 175 AD, under Emperors Marcus Aurelius and Commodus, Serdica was surrounded by a defensive wall with four gates and observation towers. In the 5th and 6th centuries, a second defensive wall was added. Within the fortress, there were luxurious villas, a forum, and important administrative buildings.

Serdica Fortress is located in the Bulgarian capital Sofia, in the Sofia City district, at an elevation of approximately 563 m above sea level.

The remains of Serdica Fortress are now accessible. In particular, the North Gate, which was restored between 1997 and 1999, can be viewed in the underpass between the Presidency and the Council of Ministers building in the city center.