Vitosha Boulevard, Sofia (must see)

Vitosha Boulevard is named for Mount Vitosha, a natural emblem of Sofia. It is the main commercial and shopping street of Sofia. It reaches from Saint Nedelya Square to the Southern Park. All along the way are high-end stores, restaurants and bars. The magic word is posh. Posh on the boulevard and neighboring streets. Let us name the names.

On the Boulevard can be found: Versace, Escada, Bulgarian, D&G, La Perla, Lacoste, Van Laak, Moreschi, Marella, Gianfranco Ferre, Armani, Tommy Hilfiger, Boss and Baldini, to mention only a few. A 2007 Cushman & Wakefield study found that Vitosha Boulevard is the world's 22nd most expensive street to shop. Even Goodwill would have delicious stuff.

Before the liberation in 1878, the street was lined with one story houses. It changed into a big time trade street between the world wars. The new word was "massive." The most distinguished buildings on the Boulevard are: The National Palace of Culture, The Palace of the Courts, The house of poet Peyo Yavarov, and the "Pharmacy", a favorite watering hole.

In 2007 another renovation was announced, aimed at restoring some of the style of Sofia in the 1930s. Benches, historical street lights, and Art Nouveau kiosks were installed. Green areas were created. Then came fountains, al fresco bars and a clock tower at Saint Nedelya's showing times in several world capitals.

In 2015 another renovation included the creation of a totally pedestrianized zone between Patriarch Evtimiy Boulevard and Alabin Street.