The park was designed in 1878 by the Czech landscape architect Karl Behr, who also contributed to the design of the Borisova Gradina.
It originally functioned as a private garden for the royal palace before being converted into a public space.
The park contains a monument to the writer Ivan Vazov, located directly in front of the National Theatre.
The chess corner has been a fixture of the park for decades, attracting amateur and master players alike who play regardless of the weather.
The park's central fountain, known for its intricate design, is a popular meeting point for locals.
The perimeter of the garden is surrounded by some of the most significant architectural landmarks of 19th and early 20th-century Sofia.
The City Garden (Gradska Gradina) is the oldest and most central public park in Sofia, established in 1872. It is uniquely defined by its long-standing tradition of open-air chess matches played by local enthusiasts near the fountain. The park serves as a hub for Sofia's cultural life, flanked by the Ivan Vazov National Theatre and the Sofia City Art Gallery. Its layout follows a formal geometric design featuring central flowerbeds and pedestrian paths lined with chestnut trees. The park functions as a social nexus where diverse groups gather, ranging from street performers to retirees. In recent years, it has undergone periodic landscaping updates to maintain its historic urban profile. The area remains a focal point for civic gatherings and historical commemorations within the city center.
The central walkway looking toward the main entrance of the Ivan Vazov National Theatre.
Observe the chess players from a respectful distance to avoid distracting them during intense matches.
Visit the small outdoor library or pop-up book stalls often found on the park's periphery.
Bring a light sweater or jacket as the trees provide significant shade, keeping temperatures cooler than surrounding sun-exposed streets.
Avoid walking directly through the marked chess-playing areas during active matches to prevent disturbing the players.
