The National Institute and Museum of Archaeology (National Institute of Archaeology with Museum in Bulgarian Academy of Sciences) is devoted to the culture of tribes and peoples that have occupied present day Bulgaria from the remote past until the 18th century. The museum is an archaeological museum that is housed in the building of the largest and oldest former Ottoman mosque in Sofia. The Archaeology Museum features prehistory objects from between 1,600,000 BC and 1,600 BC, grave inventory and other treasures from the late Bronze Age to late Antiquity, and objects from ancient Thrace, Greece and Rome to the late Middle Ages.
History & Anthropology Archaeology Historic house Medieval art & Early Renaissance art Religion Religious building
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Monday | 10:00 – 18:00 |
Tuesday | 10:00 – 18:00 |
Wednesday | 10:00 – 18:00 |
Thursday | 10:00 – 18:00 |
Friday | 10:00 – 18:00 |
Saturday | 10:00 – 18:00 |
Sunday | 10:00 – 18:00 |
Adults | BGN 12.00 |
Carer | Free |
Disabled | Free |
ICOM | Free |
Pupils | BGN 3.00 |
Students | BGN 3.00 |
Parent with child/children up to 16 years old - BGN 12
Two parents with a child/children up to 16 years old - BGN 16
Free admission days:
Second Thursday of the month (valid for pensioners)
Last Sunday of the month (valid for all visitors)
2 Saborna Str., Sofia
No exhibitions in National Institute and Museum of Archaeology have been found.
National Institute and Museum of Archaeology has 1 rating.
The National Institute and Museum of Archaeology in Sofia, Bulgaria, offers a comprehensive look into the country's rich archaeological heritage. Visitors often praise the extensive collection that spans from prehistoric times to the Middle Ages. The Thracian gold treasures, including the Valchitran gold treasure, are frequently highlighted as standout exhibits. Many reviewers appreciate the well-organized chronological layout, which helps in understanding Bulgaria's historical timeline.
The museum's location in a former Ottoman mosque adds an interesting architectural element to the visit. However, some visitors mention that the lack of English translations for some exhibits can be a drawback for international tourists. The museum's size is generally viewed positively, allowing for a thorough yet manageable exploration of Bulgarian archaeology.
While many find the artifacts impressive, a few reviewers note that the presentation could be more engaging or interactive. The staff is generally described as helpful, though not all are fluent in English.
Despite its rich collection, some visitors feel that the museum could benefit from updated lighting and display techniques to enhance the viewing experience. The building's climate control is occasionally mentioned as an area for improvement, especially during summer months.
Overall, the National Institute and Museum of Archaeology is well-regarded for its extensive and valuable collection, providing a solid overview of Bulgarian archaeology. It's considered a worthwhile visit for those interested in history and archaeology, though some modernization could further improve the experience.
This rating is based on the rating of this museum on several other platforms.
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