The former city of Appollonia was the largest and richest city on the Black Sea coast. It was a great artistic and commercial center, and evidence of that time still remains. Today, Sozopol is perhaps one of the most beautiful places in Bulgaria and a favorite city of artists, due to its special atmosphere. It welcomes many diverse visitors, but has kept its charm with its beautiful beaches located on the small bay.
The main sites of Sozopol are many, but none of them should be seen alone, as they all add to the overall feeling of the city. In Sozopol you will find old churches from the Bulgarian Revival period, such as the St. Zosim Church and the Church of the Virgin Mary. Also, there are many old houses made from beautiful dark wood, some of which are adapted for visitors, like the house of Dimitar Laskaridis (17th century) which is now an art gallery, the Anna Trendafilova House, and many others.
You can also visit an interesting archaeological museum. One can easily picture old women sitting on the benches engaging in lively conversation on the ancient cobbled streets of the old city, while beautiful embroidered carriages pass by and local traders sell fig jam, all part of the magical atmosphere of the city that can now only be felt. Sozopol hosts many cultural events, including the Appollonia Festival of Arts, which is held in August and is a scene of Bulgarian and foreign artists and their crafts (theater, art, concerts, etc.). This is one of the most popular evens on the Black Sea. The city has many attractions for kids, dance and music festivals, workshops, various competitions and playgrounds.