Sofia University St Kliment Ohridski

At a glance

Source: Wikipedia: Sofia University; Wikipedia (Bulgarian): Софийски университет; BTA: The rating system of Bulgarian universities (2025); Official website: Sofia University St Kliment Ohridski^1,2,3,4

History

The university was established on 1 October 1888 as a Higher Pedagogical Course. It began with seven lecturers and 43 students, and developed into a higher school with three-year study programmes. In 1904, it was formally established as a university. Its first rector was the linguist Aleksandar Teodorov-Balan.^1,2

Construction of the university’s main building began in 1924, with funds provided by brothers Evlogi Georgiev and Hristo Georgiev. The building was officially opened on 16 December 1934. Sculptures of the donors stand on its façade.^1,2

Faculties and departments

The university reports 16 faculties and three departments. Its faculties cover the humanities, sciences, education, law, medicine and business.^1,2

• Biology
• Chemistry and Pharmacy
• Classical and Modern Philology
• Economics and Business Administration
• Education
• Geology and Geography
• History
• Journalism and Mass Communication
• Law
• Mathematics and Informatics
• Philosophy
• Physics
• Pre-school and Primary School Education
• Slavic Studies
• Theology
• Medicine

Source: Wikipedia: Sofia University¹

The three departments are Language Learning, Information and In-service Training of Teachers, and Sports.^1,2

Research and international links

The university’s Astronomical Observatory, established in 1897, is described as Bulgaria’s first astronomical observatory and one of the first on the Balkan Peninsula. It serves the educational work of the Department of Astronomy in the Faculty of Physics.¹

Its listed affiliated bodies include the Balkan Universities Network and the National Centre of Polar Research. The university is also a member of the European University Association.^1,2

Location and campus

The university is based at 15 Tsar Osvoboditel Boulevard in Sofia. Its setting is urban rather than a single concentrated campus: faculties and other facilities are located in several parts of the city and in nearby areas.^1,2

The Rectorate and University Library are at the main address. Other locations include the Theology Faculty at Sveta Nedelya Square, science faculties on James Bourchier Boulevard, and the Faculty of Journalism and Mass Communication on Moskovska Street.²