Feb. 25, 2012 - What is Behind the curtain?: Cut-price holidays in Bulgaria, which will become possible next October when washing machine tycoon John Bloom puts his travel agency into operation, are destined to attract a great number of Britons at the Iron Curtain country. But many of them will have little idea what to expect. Our pictures take you to the capital Sofia, a picturesque city of some seven million friendly inhabitants, where the mixture of architecture old and new is constant reminder of both is varied past, and its progressive plans for the future

This image could have imperfections as it’s either historical or reportage.

Feb. 25, 2012 - What is Behind the curtain?: Cut-price holidays in Bulgaria, which will become possible next October when washing machine tycoon John Bloom puts his travel agency into operation, are destined to attract a great number of Britons at the Iron Curtain country. But many of them will have little idea what to expect. Our pictures take you to the capital Sofia, a picturesque city of some seven million friendly inhabitants, where the mixture of architecture old and new is constant reminder of both is varied past, and its progressive plans for the future. Strongest impression to be gained is of the vast number of statues. Fiery steeds ridden by lance-bearing heroes of the past adorn every wall and cobbled pavement. Contemporaried who have rendered some great public service perhaps made the first donation to a civic building or perhaps set an example in devotion to their trade are also immortalised in stone, or on large photographic displays. The State exercises an almost paternal care over its people. It provides free sports grounds, very cheap transport, fosters the workers' interest in their jobs and tells them not to speak too freely with strangers. But all told, Bulgaria is a grand land for a holiday. The weather is warm, and so, basically are the hearts of its people. Photo shows the Mosque of Banya Bashi. (Credit Image: Keystone Pictures USA/ZUMAPRESS)