Sofia has been a settlement since Thracian times and is one of Europe's oldest capitals. It is located at the foot of Vitosha Mountain and surrounded by other mountains. Sofia was established as the capital of Bulgaria in 1879 and today is the country's largest city and economic, cultural and transportation center with many universities, museums, theaters and research institutes. Key landmarks include Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the National Theatre, and Vitosha Mountain which offers recreation opportunities near the city.