St. George Rotunda.
By the early 4th century, chroniclers already described the settlement of the Thracian tribe Serdi
as "a splendid and noble city". This was in the day of Emperor Constantine the Great.Strongly attached to Serdica, the Emperor often called the city his Rome and even intended to proclaim it capital of the Eastern Roman Empire. Ultimately, he did not - but he nevertheless built magnificent edifices for the grand ceremonies during his visits. The only building to survive completely is the St. George Rotunda, famous for its original architecture and unique frescoes.
Painted several times in different ages (the 4th, 10th to 12th and 14th centuries), the majestic figures illustrate the development of monumental painting over several centuries, making the Rotunda one of the gems of Bulgarian and East European culture.
SHORT TAKE: During an official visit in August 1994, the Governor of Tennessee was taken on a tour of some Sofia landmarks. Short of time, however, he had to choose between the National Museum of History and the St. George Rotunda. His response: "There are museums of history everywhere, but a Rotunda only here!"
posted by Tanya @ 9:18 AM
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