Exotic Domes and Ancient Stones - June 2019

Steve enjoying a fountain!
Photo © Jo Hackett

Statue of St Sophia
Photo © Jo Hackett

It was fantastic to have the chance to explore Bulgaria's extraordinary capital city, Sophia, named after Saint Sophia, saint of wisdom. Her beautiful black and gold statue with a bird on her shoulder stands proudly in the city centre, reminiscent of the wonderful Greek Goddess of wisdom, Athena...

There were many links to the ancient world here in the land of Orpheus and the Thracians. Jo and I checked out the circular Church of St Nicolas, apparently the oldest complete building in Sophia and built on the site of a pagan temple. It stands amidst some fascinating Roman ruins.

We also visited the beautiful Medieval St Nedelya Orthodox Church, and we loved the golden domes of a particularly exotic fairytale-like Russian Orthodox Church and the impressive Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.

We also found ourselves walking through lush greenery with joyful fountains, and the pedestrian street had a plethora of wonderful cafes and restaurants. It's a fabulous city centre, well worth exploring. We'd love to return...

I was glad to finally get the chance to play here with my band, and the crowd reception was terrific. Everyone was incredibly welcoming. I met as many people as possible, knowing they had had to wait a very long time to see us perform.

My thanks to the agents and promotors for making this show happen!

So now off to Malta, for the last show of this current leg of the tour...

Sophia show
Photo © Jo Hackett

Steve beside St Nedelya church
Photo © Jo Hackett

Steve with ancient Church of St Nicolas and Roman ruins
Photo © Jo Hackett

Band about to go on stage
Photo © Jo Hackett

Sophia show
Photo © Jaqueline Reberschak

Steve looking at Russian Orthodox Church