Sofia, is the capital and largest city of Bulgaria and the 12th largest city by population in the European Union with a population of 1.3 million people and with 1.4 million people metropolitan population. It is located in western Bulgaria, at the foot of Mount Vitosha and is ranked as a Beta world city.
Prehistoric settlements were excavated in the centre of the present city, near the royal palace, as well as in outer districts such as Slatina and Obelya. The well-preserved town walls (especially their substructures) from antiquity date back before the 7th century BC, when Thracians established their city next to the most important and highly respected mineral spring, still functioning today. Sofia has had several names in the different periods of its existence, and remnants from the city's past can still be seen today alongside modern landmarks.
Sofia is the city in Bulgaria where major universities, institutions, and businesses are concentrated. It is also a center of media, cultural events, modern theaters, it is a home of research institutes, sporting events, orchestras, and museums. IT industry sector is gradually growing in Sofia, together with the increasing number of events in contemporary arts, festivals, etc.