Doktorska gradina (Doctor’s garden) has been in my everyday life since I was 8 years old – it was on the way between school and the bus stop – well, may be that was not the shortest way, but definitely me and my friends though it was the most pleasant one. Back then, I was fascinated with the big Gingko Biloba trees and spent hours making small bouquets from their beautiful flat leaves. I loved lying under the shade on the small grassy hill and joking with my friends. Well, actually… I still like doing those things so many years later!

The garden is situated in one of the most luxurious neighborhoods of central Sofia, home to many arts people. It is called “doktorska” because of the monument in the middle, which was erected in 1883 to honor all the medical workers who gave their lives in the 1779 Russian – Ottoman war to liberate Bulgaria. It stands on the grounds of a 2000-year-old Roman temple of Zeus the remains of which you can still find by the little hill.

Doktorska gradina has been recently renovated and is now much nicer than how I remember it. Comfortable benches, a refreshing fountain, great big kiosks to enjoy even the rainy afternoons out in open air – what more could one ask for. There are lots of children playing here during the day and in the afternoon, so if you are looking for peace and quiet, better come later in the evening.