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Saint Sophia, Ohrid

4.5
Religious Site · Tourist Spot
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Home to some of the best-preserved Byzantine religious artwork in the world, Saint Sophia understandably serves as one of Macedonia's most important church complexes. Visit the church, originally built by Macedonia's medieval rulers, and explore the grounds, including a courtyard, narthex, and series of hallways along the shores of Lake Ohrid. Enter the structure and admire the series of ornate and detailed frescoes along the walls and ceilings. Note that these frescoes, dating as far back as the 11th century and depicting Old Testament scenes, were long covered with plaster when the Ottomans converted the church into a mosque, hence their good condition. PutSaint Sophia into our Ohrid holiday planner and find out what's close by, where to stay, and where to head next.
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Saint Sophia reviews

TripAdvisor traveler rating
TripAdvisor traveler rating 4.5
403 reviews
Google
4.7
TripAdvisor
  • Beautiful old church in Ohrid. Once the center of a large congregation and seat of the Bulgarian bishopric,, iI has magnificant 11 to 14c frescoes. A must see for anyone visitig the town of Ohrid. 
    Beautiful old church in Ohrid. Once the center of a large congregation and seat of the Bulgarian bishopric,, iI has magnificant 11 to 14c frescoes. A must see for anyone visitig the town of Ohrid.  more »
  • The church is impresive and worth a visit. I m sad that i didnt go inside because was night and it was closed. 
    The church is impresive and worth a visit. I m sad that i didnt go inside because was night and it was closed.  more »
  • The beautiful “St. Sophia” church is in the heart of the old town of Ohrid, Macedonia. Surrounded by beautifully maintained gardens and lawn, relax on the park benches to enjoy the peaceful... 
    The beautiful “St. Sophia” church is in the heart of the old town of Ohrid, Macedonia. Surrounded by beautifully maintained gardens and lawn, relax on the park benches to enjoy the peaceful...  more »
Google
  • Impressive original ancient frescoes inside make it worth the 3 euros entry. Apart from that it's nice but nothing particularly special.
  • The beautiful “St. Sophia” church is in the heart of the old town of Ohrid, Macedonia. Surrounded by beautifully maintained gardens and lawn, relax on the park benches to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the stunning church. It is one of the most important churches in Macedonia. The church is dedicated to the Holy Wisdom, built in 9th century, on the foundations of an early Christian basilica from the 5th century. The church houses architecture and art from the Middle Ages, you can enter for a small fee to view. Views from Villa Varosh are magical, also the best guesthouse in Ohrid.
  • One of the most important and ancient monuments in Macedonia. Demolished and rebuilt several times, converted into a mosque and reconverted into a church, today it is difficult to understand its history and evolution. I recommend Wikipedia for passionate; instead, for those like me who simply look at beauty, mystique, there are plenty here.
  • An absolute must visit place. Over a millennium of history. Entry is 100 dinars. The church was empty when I was there in August 2021 and also October 2020. Just imagine if these walls could talk. It’s also worth going there and talking in the church just to see how your voice sounds. Very unique acoustics. Highly recommend for anyone visiting Ohrid! A+
  • Spectacular example of Roman architecture and painting, one of the best spots to see in the town regardless of religion. The edifice dates back from the 11th century when Ohrid was rhe capital of the Bulgarian Empire and the seat of an autonomous Orthodox church. After the Ottoman conquests, the church was tuned into a mosque and frescoes were covered up or destroyed. It has an entrance fee of 100 denars

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