Slaveykov Square is one of the most popular tourist places in the city of Sofia and is a paradise for the book lovers. The square has been named after Bulgarian writers Petko Slaveykov and Pencho Slaveykov, who were father and son by relation. Statues of the two writers sitting on a bench have been set at the square. These form one of the most important landmarks in the city of Sofia. Automobile transportation in the area was limited since 1944. As a result of which, Slaveykov Square has emerged as one of the few pedestrian areas in modern day Sofia.
The history of the Slaveykov Square goes back a long way to the 14thn century. Kafene Basi, a square, existed at the same place during 1515. The place had a mosque, a coffee house and two Turkish police stations. It was also an important position in the city during the 17th century and a fountain was constructed at the site. The place grew into a major residential
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area in Sofia after the independence of Bulgaria. Several buildings were constructed around the Slaveykov Square in Sofia. It was during the 1920s and 1930s that Slaveykov Square got its modern looks. Several skyscrapers and two-storey houses with gardens were erected. Some of the important buildings constructed in the area include:
- Ministry of Public Works
- Teachers' Fund
- French Institute
Currently, the Slaveykov Square in Bulgaria is popular across the world for the book stores that line it. The place is a favorite with the booksellers and publishers. The Sofia City Library, which is also located at the Slaveykov Square, adds to the charming ambience and attracts book lovers through the year round.
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