Palace of Justice

The idea for its construction was present as soon as in 1880, but because of numerous reasons the construction was not initiated before 1929. It was finally constructed according to the project of architect Pencho Koychev, and the construction continued until 1940.
Its most distinguishable architectural elements were selected and combined in quite suitable manner – an impressive colonnade made of 14 columns, each and every of them with ornamented capital, syenite plinth, panelling made of white limestone, elegant cornice and solemn staircase that gets us to five large doors so that the building would be oozing respect and strictness, as well as impart its designation. Later on influenced by the Palace of Justice, other important buildings were constructed in this style too, such as the National Library, the Opera House, the Council of Ministers and the Presidency.
The building is exceptionally functional. It has 8 patios, which remain hidden to the spectator at the outside.
In 1944, as well as many other buildings, it was hit at North-East during the bombarding over Sofia, yet the damages were not huge and they were rapidly recovered.
In 1980, the collections of the National Historical Museum were accommodated in part of the building whereas it used to receive its visitors there until 1998. Afterwards, the initial designation of the building, namely for it to be a Court, was recovered.