Sofia has the appearance of the modern European capitals, but jealously protects the spiritual and architectural monuments of the different civilizations. Under the golden paving pass healing thermal waters springs, hiding architectural monuments from ancient times.
In 2018, our capital city hosted the EU Council Presidency of Bulgaria, and its communication campaign revealed that Sofia is Green, Ancient, Creative, Innovative, Welcoming, United.
Sofia Municipality implements the “Strategy for the Development of Culture 2013-2023”, one of its main priorities being access to culture. Local government has long worked to increase involvement of residents in the cultural life not only through their own structures, but also by actively supporting various artists and cultural institutions.
Sofia already has its new communication platform YouAreSofia.bg, in which cultural operators and artists can post information about events and new places for culture. The site is also targeted at numerous foreign tourists.
The urban environment is becoming more welcoming to art outside the traditional halls – the municipality is discovering and socializing the ancient heritage, creating new outdoor scenes and galleries, supporting exhibiting contemporary art installations, sculptures and monuments, expanding cultural spaces beyond the usual central areas. Access to culture is also encouraged through the municipality’s funding programs.
In parallel with Sofia’s involvement in the ACCESS project, a URBACT Working Group of Cultural Organizations and Artists was set up to share experiences and create good practices in improving access to culture in the city.
By participating in ACCESS, Sofia will work to improve the link between culture and education, and improve access for disadvantaged people – adults and people with disabilities. One of the goals is to gather information about the profile of the people most affected – what are their interests, age, what would draw them to Sofia’s cultural life.
Our main goal is to establish Sofia as a creative city where everyone – regardless of their gender, age, ethnic origin or social status – has access to a variety of cultural products and services and the opportunity to develop their potential through active participation in creative activities.