The Church of the Dormition of the Theotokos is a historic church in Nessebar, also known as the Church of the Assumption. Built in 1873, it is a place to learn about the town’s religious heritage and plan a visit from Sunny Beach.
- Location: Nessebar
- Entry: Tourists may enter free outside service times
- Photography: Photography inside is not allowed
Finding the church in Nessebar
The Church Dormition of Theotokos is one of the churches and landmarks to look for when planning time in Nessebar. It is also referred to as the Church of the Assumption, so both names may help you identify it while researching the town.
The church is about 19 minutes by car from an apartment in Sunny Beach.
Its place in the old town
The Church of the Dormition of the Theotokos was built in 1873. Its other name, the Church of the Assumption, refers to the same church, not a separate landmark.
Nessebar has several named churches, including the Church of St Theodore, the Church of Saint Paraskeva and the Church of Saint Sophia. The visitor guide to the Church of St. John Aliturgetos covers another of the town’s church landmarks.
How do you get from Sunny Beach to the church?
Line 1 connects Sunny Beach with Nessebar Old Town. Its route runs through stops including Center, Stadium and Festa Panorama before reaching Nessebar Old Town, making the Nessebar Old Town day-trip guide useful for planning what to see nearby. Nessebar Municipality publishes the bus timetables.
The municipal transport page also publishes Line 2, connecting Sunny Beach, the Aquapark, Cherno More and Nessebar. Timetables and services can vary by season, so check the official site before you go.
The Bulgarian Ministry of Tourism’s Nessebar Tourist Information Centre provides information about local tourist sites and the schedules of interstate bus lines serving Nessebar and Sunny Beach. You can use it as a local source for trip-planning questions.
Visiting etiquette and access
The church is described as Nessebar’s main active sanctuary, with services held regularly. Tourists may enter free outside service times, and photography inside is not allowed. Plan your visit with services in mind and follow any instructions at the entrance.
Opening hours
- Monday to Sunday: 8:00–17:00
Last checked November 2026. Hours can change on holidays and for special events.
FAQs
What is another name for the Church Dormition of Theotokos?
It is also called the Church of the Assumption.
When was the church built?
The church was built in 1873.
Can tourists enter the church?
Tourists may enter free outside service times. Photography inside is not allowed.