The Russian Church in Sofia

The church St. Nikolai the Wondermaker in Sofia, also known as the Russian church, was built in 1913, under a project developed by the Russian architect M. Preobrazhenski. The church is devoted to Saint Nikolai Mirlikiyiski the Wondermaker, the heaven protector of Russia's last emperor Nikolai the Second. The temple was built and painted in traditional Moscow style by a group of Russian masters of arts. From 1921 to 1950 the church was managed by archbishop Serafim, the leader of the Russian Orthodox municipalities in Bulgaria. In the 20's of 20 century the church was a center of thousands of Russian emigrants. Besides for its unique architecture, the Russian church is also known for the crypt where archbishop Serafim is laid down. The tomb is believed to be an inexhaustible source of wonders. The visitors in the church write down their prayers and wills on notes and leave them into a special box, believing they will be heard.