site.btaReconstruction Begins of Sofia’s Historic Central Market Hall

One of the oldest covered markets in Bulgaria, Sofia's Central Market Hall (Tsentralni Sofiyski Hali), is undergoing reconstruction as part of a project to restore the original look and purpose of the emblematic building. A total of BGN 50 million will be invested in restoring its social and cultural functions. 

Sofia’s first modern covered market for food products was unveiled back in 1911. Its façade combines the then rare Neo-Byzantine and Secession styles. In 1988 it was closed for reconstruction and renovation. In 1995 it was awarded the status of monument of culture of national importance. In 2000, it opened again after Israeli company Ashtrom made a joint venture with Sofia City Hall and invested in the preservation of the building. In 2021, German retailer Kaufland made steps to purchase Central Market Hall and announced plans to reconstruct the landmark building.

Presenting the final project on Thursday, Kaufland Bulgaria CEO Ivan Chernev said that once it reopens in 2023, Sofia's Central Market Hall will be one of the most impressive cultural, historical and commercial centres in Sofia, Bulgaria, and the world. The building will house over 17,000 fresh and quality products, with Bulgarian producers and goods having a leading position. Some 170 Bulgarian producers have already expressed interest in joining the project, Chernev noted.

Central Market Hall will also host exhibitions, discussions, music evenings, and activities for children.

Kaufland Bulgaria Board member Petya Vladimirova explained that the project, created by Architect Maria Popmarkova, is based on the building’s historical and cultural value and will restore its authentic look. The company also relied on Engineer Georgi Kolchakov, who is an expert in reconstruction of monuments of culture, and on an Austrian company that is among the leading architectural bureaus in Europe with experience in interior design for monuments of culture and integration of commercial concepts in such buildings.

Architect Popmarkova said that the façade will not be changed in any way; it will only be restored and preserved. The roof will be renovated, she added. 

The project is expected to create 110 jobs, it also transpired during the presentation.

More information on the project (in Bulgarian) as well as photos showing how Tsentralni Hali has changed over the 111 years since its opening, can be found on the project’s website.