This September, our historical city tours return to the streets of Sofia, marking 9 September, the date of the 1944 coup that brought the communist regime to power in Bulgaria. Through different routes across the city, we will explore the establishment of the regime, the mechanisms of control and the changes that eventually led to the political transformation of 1989. 

“Imposition of the Regime” explores the establishment of communist rule after 9 September 1944 and the profound changes that followed. The tour looks at the cult of Georgi Dimitrov, fear and propaganda, as well as the stories of people who disappeared during the regime.

• Starting point: Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski”
• Dates and times:

- 9 September: 18:00 - 19:30
- 19 September: 11:00 - 12:30

“Freedom Tour” takes us back to Sofia in 1989, following the places where protests unfolded and a new chapter in Bulgaria’s history began. We will visit the squares where people gathered, the “City of Truth” and the spaces where the first words of freedom could be spoken openly.

• Starting point: Fountain in front of the Presidential Palace
• Date and time: 

The historical “Memory” Tram follows Sofia’s central axis, introducing key sites connected to the structures of power and control between 1944 and 1989. The journey offers a different perspective on the city and brings to light stories that are often left outside the history books.

• Starting point: “Lions’ Bridge Square” tram stop (towards Sofia Central Halls)
• Date and times: 27 September – 11:00 and 13:00

Participation in the tours is free of charge, but spots are limited.

Registration is required.
For the tours on September 9, 12, 19, and 27, register here.
For the tour on September 20, register here.
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The tours are a joint initiative of Sofia Platform Foundation and Visit Sofia (Municipal Enterprise “Tourism” at Sofia Municipality).