The Inter-Block Parks of Sofia: A Forgotten Utopia

In Sofia, Bulgaria, amidst the post-war urban planning influenced by the ideas of Garden City and Le Corbusier's Radiant City, the concept of inter-block parks emerged. These green spaces between apartment buildings, also known as measured blocks of air or inter-block parks, were intended to bring nature into the city and provide shared recreational areas for residents. However, over time, these parks fell into disrepair and were neglected. With the collapse of Bulgarian communism, the parks were no longer officially protected, and many were sold off for development. As a result, Sofia lost more than half of its green spaces. Today, the remaining inter-block parks face the threat of being bulldozed for new construction, but there is also a growing movement to advocate for the preservation and revitalization of these parks as vital public spaces. Despite the challenges, these parks continue to be cherished by some residents who take it upon themselves to maintain and enjoy them.