Association TOPLOCENTRALA

Toplocentrala is based in the former heating plant of the National Palace of Culture in Sofia, which fell into disuse in 1983. Since then, the building has been standing abandoned in a beautiful central park area in Sofia, next to a small river.

In 2014, a group of artists and organisations formed an initiative to transform the disused building into a centre for contemporary arts. The idea was accepted and the agreement with the owner, the Municipality of Sofia, was signed. Many stages have been finalised including an architectural competition. As of today, the building is already in the process of renovation. A date for inauguration has been set for 17 September 2019.

Toplocentrala is an associated member of Trans Europe Halles because they enjoy networking, learning, running a sustainable centre, collaborating and development in a European context.

What makes your organisation unique?

A dialogue and shared responsibilities from the very beginning in 2014 until now between the initiators, the platform of independent art organisations and artists, and the owner – the municipality of Sofia.

What TEH activities do you belong to?

Creative Hubs Hub, Artistic Residencies, Balkan Hub, Staff Exchange