A new skating rink will start functioning behind the National Palace of Culture in Sofia this winter.

The rink's area is 600sq m and it will open on November 25, Bulgarian news agency BTA reported.

The new winter facility will be called Ice Park. It will open at 10am and continue working until 10pm each day. An hour and a half of skating will cost three leva.

Nearly 200 people will be able to skate at the same time. Skates will be offered for rent and a personal instructor will also be available.

An entertainment zone will function alongside the skating rink. The zone will feature a stage and a restaurant. Organisers said these facilities will enable the staging of DJ parties and concerts.

The entertainment zone will be completed by March 2007. Similar skating rinks and entertainment facilities will be set up in Bansko and Haskovo, as well.