site.btaAugust 26, 1961: Universiade Hall Opens in Sofia

Sofia's Universiade Hall - Bulgaria's first multi-functional indoor venue - was inaugurated 64 years ago, on August 25, 1961. Its name recalls its original purpose: to host the 2nd World Summer University Games, which opened on August 26, 1961.

The hall was built in 1960-1961, using volunteer labour of 20,000 university students. The designs were done by architects Alexander Barov (team leader), Ivan Tatarov, Doncho Vladishki, Ivan Ivanchev and engineer Iliya Lazarov. It occupies 4,130 sq m on a 19,898 sq m site on Shipchenski Prohod Blvd., next-door to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

A stone-carved replica of the 10-11th c. Stara Zagora Lion adorns the northern facade. The corner of the western facade has a coloured ceramic relief by Lyubomir Dalchev, Stefan Peichev and Georgi Kolarov.

The main hall can seat 2,300 spectators and hosts competitions in 18 sports altogether: basketball, volleyball, modern rhythmic gymnastics, gymnastics, aerobics, acrobatics, wrestling, boxing, weight-lifting, judo, sambo, handball, badminton, karate-do, taekwon-do, table-tennis, fencing and weightlifting. It is a favourite venue for national championships, international meets and matches of the Sofia-based teams in these sports. There are modern electronic scoreboards and display facilities around the court and on the exterior.

Since remodelling in 1975, the hall has also been used as a venue for national and international congresses and concerts. Ray Charles gave a memorable performance there on May 27, 1981.

The East Hall with seating for 500 is ideal as a venue for conferences, training sessions, chamber performances, fashion shows, cocktail parties, and specialized exhibitions.

The South Hall is expressly equipped for training events and news conferences with 25 attendees. It has screens, flipchart and multimedia facilities.

The building also offers over 1,500 sq m of exhibition space, outdoor parking for 50 cars, and coffee bars.

Over the years, Universiade has hosted over 4,500 sports and cultural events.