Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

Few buildings in Sofia command attention quite like the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. Its vast domes rise above the city skyline, shimmering in gold, while its sheer scale and presence make it impossible to ignore. Yet this is more than just a striking landmark, it is a monument shaped by history, sacrifice and national identity.… Read the rest

Ivan Vazov National Theatre

Ivan Vazov National Theatre

If ancient Serdica reveals Sofia’s foundations and Ottoman relics speak of centuries under empire, then the Ivan Vazov National Theatre tells the story of a nation finding its voice.

Set against the leafy calm of City Garden, its elegant façade – columns, statues and deep red walls – exudes unmistakably European architecture.… Read the rest

Bachkovo Monastery

Bachkovo Monastery

Nestled in the Rhodope Mountains of southern Bulgaria, Bachkovo Monastery stands as a beacon of Bulgarian spiritual heritage and historical significance.

We arrive on a sparkling Spring morning after the night in Plovdiv and a quick stop on the way at Asen’s Fortress.… Read the rest

5 Things To Do In Plovdiv

Philippopolis Ancient Theatre

Plovdiv is charming from the get go and given the range of things to see here, it is no wonder it was Europe’s Capital of Culture 2019. On our list of ‘must see’ items are 5 things that no trip to Plovdiv is complete without.… Read the rest

Etar Ethnographic Outdoor Museum

Etar Ethnographic Outdoor Museum

As we arrive at Etar Ethnographic Outdoor Museum, it seems like just a few old huts along a small, albeit picturesque stream. However, as we enter this busy little slice of history, it’s clear that it is much more than it seems.… Read the rest

Highlights From The Wallace Collection: The East Gallery II

Fruit and Flowers, Jan van Huysum

Ah, The Wallace Collection! Even as I contemplate only tackling the highlights, the vastness of this collection overwhelms me and I know that it is a practically impossible task.

Still, today I am in London and, after a long, long time, have returned to my favorite museum.… Read the rest

Highlights From The Wallace Collection: The Back Stateroom

Flowers on a Fountain with a Peacock, c.1700 – 1710, Jan Weenix (1642 – 1719)

Ah, The Wallace Collection! Even knowing I’ll focus only on the highlights, the vastness of this treasure trove feels almost overwhelming. Every room promises discoveries at every turn and I know taking it all in in one visit is nearly impossible.… Read the rest

Highlights From The Wallace Collection: The Dining Room

Mademoiselle de Chateau-Renaud, 1755, by Jean-Marc Nattier (1685 – 1766)

Ah, The Wallace Collection! Even as I contemplate only tackling the highlights, the vastness of this collection overwhelms me and I know that it is a practically impossible task.

Still, today I am in London and, after a long, long time, have returned to my favorite museum.… Read the rest

Highlights From The Wallace Collection: Oriental Armoury

Khula Khud, 19th century helmet, Persia, steel, iron, gold, brass, textile

Ah, The Wallace Collection! Even as I contemplate only tackling the highlights, the vastness of this collection overwhelms me and I know that it is a practically impossible task.

Still, today I am in London and, after a long, long time, have returned to my favorite museum.… Read the rest

Highlights From The Wallace Collection: European Armoury I

Display of Medieval and Renaissance swords

Ah, The Wallace Collection! Even as I contemplate only tackling the highlights, the vastness of this collection overwhelms me and I know that it is a practically impossible task.

Still, today I am in London and, after too long, I finally return to my favorite museum.… Read the rest