Sketches on Sofia’s Works

“Sketches on Sofia’s Works” is a unique book, entirely drawn and written by hand, that takes the reader on a journey into Sofia’s past.

Its author, architect Todor Voinikov, spent over 15 years researching and collecting historical sources, materials, and photographs related to the Bulgarian capital. The result is a precise and visually rich reconstruction of the city’s many faces through the ages — from Roman and Ottoman times to the present day.

One of the book’s most original features is the superimposition of long-lost places and buildings onto the contours of the modern city, creating a striking visual dialogue between past and present.

At its heart, the book focuses on the people, places, and events that shaped Sofia’s history.

The author invites the reader into the homes of Petko Karavelov, the Slaveykov family, Konstantin Stoilov, Stefan Stambolov, Ivan Evstratiev Geshov, Stoyan Mihaylovski, and other notable figures.

The book also explores the places where some of Bulgaria’s most influential artists, statesmen, and public figures gathered, alongside famous bohemians, wits, and eccentrics.

Among them are the Rosa Pastry Shop, where Elin Pelin wrote “Andreshko”, as well as celebrated social hubs such as the Panah Hotel, the Armenian Café, Hotel Bulgaria, the Red Crab beer hall, Hladna Pochivka, Alcazar, Bambuka, and others.

Published in hardcover and printed on high-quality coated paper, the book is a beautifully crafted coffee-table edition that makes a thoughtful and stylish gift.

Consider also: https://www.giftedsofia.com/shop/art/print/hand-drawn-3d-map-of-sofia/

Author: Arch. Todor Voinikov
Pages: 98
Cover: Hardcover
Dimensions: 245 mm x 330 mm
Year: 2024
ISBN: 978-619-188-490-2