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Country Description

attractive tourist country, With beautiful nature and hospitable people. Bright sun, azure sea, beautiful beaches, a wide choice of hotels, an abundance of fruits and vegetables. Bulgaria is small (compared to Russia, of course), but popular with tourists southern country, with beautiful nature, inhabited by hospitable residents. Spend your holidays in this wonderful place the globe can be afforded by people of all ages and income levels. It will appeal to both young people who prefer places where they can relax and lead a mostly nocturnal lifestyle, and those who prefer a calm, but at the same time not boring rest.

Geography

Bulgaria is a relatively small state (111 thousand km2), located in the south of Europe, in the northeast of the Balkan Peninsula. It is washed by the waters of the Black Sea. A country in southeastern Europe on the Balkan Peninsula (from 1946 to 1990 it was called People's Republic Bulgaria). Bulgaria shares a common border with five countries. In the north, along the Danube, there is a border with Romania, in the south - with Turkey and Greece, in the west - with Serbia and the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia. In the east it is washed by the waters of the Black Sea. The area of ​​Bulgaria is 110912 sq. km. More than half of the country's territory is mountainous or hilly: the Balkan Mountains cross the country from the northwest to the Black Sea and form the watershed between the Danube River and the Aegean Sea. In the south lie the Rhodope Mountains, along which the border with Greece runs. In the south-west of Bulgaria lie the Rila Mountains, where the highest point of the country is located - Mount Musala (2925 m). Toward the east there are several valleys, including Thracian. The main river in Bulgaria is the Danube, whose tributaries are Is-kyr and Yantra.

Time

Time in Bulgaria is 1 hour behind Moscow time.

Climate

Most of the territory of Bulgaria is dominated by a temperate continental climate with distinct four seasons. On the Black Sea coast and in the southern regions, the climate is close to the Mediterranean. In the country, the average temperature of the coldest month - January - ranges from -2 to + 2oC. In the mountains, the thermometer can drop to -10 ... - 15 degrees. average temperature the warmest month - July - ranges from +18oC to +24oC in the northern regions to +28 in the south and on the Black Sea coast, while it rarely exceeds 30 degrees. The annual rainfall is 670 mm, and in the mountains - 800 - 1000 mm. In northern Bulgaria and the Black Sea region, the wettest months are May - June, the driest - February. In southern Bulgaria, the maximum precipitation occurs in November - December, the minimum - in August. The water in the Black Sea warms up to +25oC. The climate of Bulgaria is favorable for recreation, especially for residents of the middle zone.

Language

The official language is Bulgarian, which is so close to Russian that Russian-speaking tourists have practically no language problems. Service personnel at resorts, hotels and restaurants usually speak Russian, English, German and French.

Religion

The state guarantees freedom of religion. Religious institutions are separated from the state. The traditional religion is Eastern Orthodox Christianity (85% of the population). Orthodox Christianity since the 9th century. is the main religion of the country. Today it is practiced by 82.6% of the population. Throughout the history of Bulgaria, it has played an important role in the formation of the nation. During the times of foreign domination, thanks to the Orthodox Church, the Bulgarians managed to preserve their native language, and in many respects their culture. The church is autocephalous (administratively independent). It is ruled by the Bulgarian Patriarch. Services are conducted in Bulgarian.

Population

The population of Bulgaria is about 9 million people, of which 85% are Bulgarians, 9.7% are Turks and 5% are gypsies. The population of Bulgaria over the past 20 years has decreased by almost a million people - and now the country is home to about 7.7 million citizens. Bulgarian experts name several reasons why such an unpleasant trend has emerged: a drop in the birth rate, as well as high level emigration. According to some forecasts, if the current demographic situation does not change, then in a few decades the population of Bulgaria may be reduced by one third. Population decline is noted in many European countries, but in Bulgaria this process is exacerbated by an extremely low standard of living.

Electricity

The mains voltage is 220 volts throughout the country.

Emergency telephones

Emergency phone number in Bulgaria - 150
The telephone number of the fire service in Bulgaria is 160
Police phone in Bulgaria - 166
The telephone number of the traffic police in Bulgaria is 165
Road service in Bulgaria - 146

Connection

Telephone communication: you can call another country or city from any pay phone using the phone cards of Mobika (blue cards and devices) and BulFon (orange cards and devices), which are sold at post offices, newsstands , small shops and hotels. The consumption of conventional units on the card is indicated on the phone display. A call from the post office will cost a little less than from a hotel. Bulgaria code - 359. To call Bulgaria you need to dial - 8 - 10 - 359 - city code - number of the called subscriber. To access international calls from Bulgaria: 00 (beep) - country and city code - number of the called subscriber. When calling from Russia to Bulgaria on cell phones, you should dial the country code (359) - the subscriber's cell phone number. In this case, the area code does not matter.

Currency exchange

In use are coins of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 stotinki and banknotes of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 leva (lev.). On July 1, 1999, the country made a denomination of the local currency similar to the Russian one, when each denomination was reduced by three zeros. The old money was in circulation until the end of 1999. But even now a tourist can slip money out of circulation. The exchange rate of the Bulgarian lev is strictly pegged to the German mark: 1lv. = DM1. In turn, $1 is approximately equal to DM2. (As of June 2000). Generally, in big cities course is better than in the resorts. Banks work with clients from Monday to Friday from 9:00 to 16:00. On Sundays and holidays banks are closed.

Visa

Citizens of Russia and the CIS to visit Bulgaria require a visa, which must be applied for at the Visa Application Centers of Bulgaria or at the visa departments of the Embassy or Consulates General of Bulgaria in the territory of the Russian Federation. Types of visas: 1) short stay visa (entry visa) - issued to persons whose purpose of travel is tourism, visiting relatives or friends; 2) group visa - issued to persons who are citizens of one state and formed a group before applying for a visa. Group tourist visas give the right to a single entry and stay for a period not exceeding 30 days. Group single or double entry transit visas give the right to a single or double passage through the territory of Bulgaria. The composition and size of the group during the stay and departure from Bulgaria should not change; 3) transit visa - issued to persons whose purpose of visit is transit through the territory of Bulgaria to third countries within 24 hours. This visa gives the right to leave the airport and stay in the country within the specified period. Citizens of Russia do not need a transit visa if they arrive in Bulgaria for the purpose of an intermediate landing or transfer to another flight and do not leave the airport airside; 4) long-term residence visa (immigrant visa) - issued to persons wishing to obtain a long-term (1 year) or permanent residence permit in the Republic of Bulgaria.

Customs regulations

It is necessary to declare: jewelry, professional photo, cinema and video equipment, which then must be taken out of the country. There is a limit on the import of some items, above which you need to pay a duty: cigarettes - 200 pcs. (or other tobacco products - 250 g), wine - 2 l, spirits - 1 l, coffee - 500 g, tea - 100 g, perfume - 50 ml, cologne or other perfume products - 250 ml .; items for personal use, photo and video equipment, sports and hunting equipment (it is necessary to fill out a declaration with the obligation to re-export them). Duty-free export of antiques and works of art is allowed with a permit. It is forbidden to import: automobile gas-cylinder installations; meat and meat products, beans, sugar; children's clothing and footwear, cotton fabrics, household electrical appliances.

Holidays and non-working days

January 1 - New Year
March 3 - Day of the Liberation of Bulgaria from the Ottoman yoke
April - Good Friday
April - Easter Monday
April - May - Easter (the dates of these holidays change according to the church calendar)
May 1 - Labor Day
May 6 - Day of St. George the Victorious, official holiday of the armed forces of Bulgaria
May 24 - Day of Slavic Literature and Culture
August 15 - Assumption of the Virgin
September 6 - Day of the Unification of Bulgaria
September 22 - Independence Day
November 1 - All Saints Day
December 6 - Constitution Day
December 8 - Immaculate Conception
December 25, 26 - Christmas

Transport

Buses, trolleybuses and trams operate in cities. The cost of a single travel ticket fluctuates within 0.25 BGL in different cities(0.4 BGL in Sofia metro). A double ticket (valid for an hour) costs 0.4 BGL, a ticket for five days - 4.4 BGL, for a month - 21 BGL. Some resorts also have intercity single tickets different periodicity. In many settlements and resorts, affordable fixed-route taxis are common.

The capital has a subway. The cost of a single ticket is 0.4 BGL .. Yellow taxis with traditional checkers, a price list with prices should be fixed on the side window, in most taxis you can even get a receipt. There are day and night (22.00-06.00) tariffs. Base prices (day\night rate) - landing - 0.29\0.39 BGL, 1 km. mileage - 0.48\0.58 BGL, one minute of waiting - 0.16\0.19 BGL, additional piece of luggage - 5 BGL. In resorts, taxi drivers often offer "negotiated prices", in which case you can and should bargain.

Rail transport in Bulgaria is relatively inexpensive and convenient. Trains are divided into "express" (express) and "friday" (passenger). When traveling to resort areas, tickets are recommended to be booked in advance.

Tips

Tipping is usually 5-8% in a restaurant (in restaurants high category- 10%), cafe and bar, if the guest was satisfied. In a taxi "for tea" they usually leave 5% of the amount on the meter or rounded to the nearest whole number (the main payment is strictly on the meter).

The shops

The largest and busiest market in Sofia, the so-called women's market, Women's Pazar. In addition to fruits and vegetables, you can buy meat, cheeses, seasonings and spices, dishes, clothes, shoes, metal products, etc. at the market. The covered market (HALI) is located opposite the mosque, on Blvd. Book. Marie Louise. The Great Sofia Market is an example of the architecture of the early 20th century. It was built in 1910-1911. Today this market is the main selling place for fresh products in Sofia.

Slyvekov Square in the city center is the most visited place in the city. Here you can find a varied number of shops, as well as a book market that sells works in all possible languages ​​at very attractive prices.

Fashion stores are located in the central part of Sofia. Here you can find all the most famous brands (Hugo Boss, Lacoste, Marlboro Classics). You will find them if you go up Vitosha boulevard. Fashion shops are also on the street. Tsar Shishman and Count Ignatiev.

Typical Bulgarian souvenirs are rose oil, wines and brandy, carpets and ceramics, silverware. Souvenir shop next to the Alexander Nevsky Church. Antique dealers musical instruments, cameras, paintings, icons, etc.) can be found in the park opposite the Alexander Nevsky Church. The icons are copies of the most beautiful icons kept in Bulgarian monasteries.

National cuisine

The dishes are really tasty - spicy spices, plenty of vegetables, spicy taste. One of its main features is the simultaneous heat treatment of products over low heat. This allows you to preserve the nutritional properties, to achieve a pleasant aroma of dishes, original flavor combinations. This is also facilitated by the use of a variety of products, seasonings, vegetable and animal fats.

It all starts with salads: traditional Shopska, mixed (tomatoes with cucumbers and cheese), Russian "Olivier", "Snezhanka" (fresh cucumbers, walnuts, pressed Bulgarian "sour milk"). You can not ignore the cold "presentation": roll or ham cocktail, mushroom cocktail, dry sausage "Lukanka", tomatoes stuffed with mushrooms or cheese.

Very unusual cold Bulgarian soup "tarator" (finely chopped cucumbers, dill, garlic and Walnut filled with diluted Bulgarian "sour milk"). Lamb soup (lamb kurban chorba) and lentil soup (bream chorba) have a peculiar taste. Bulgaria is famous for its pyrzhols (a piece of meat fried on a grill) and kebapchetas (oblong minced meat patties fried on a grill).

Popular dishes are: kavarma (meat or vegetable roll), drob sarma (chopped lamb liver with rice and egg), sarmi (stuffed grape leaves), kebab (meat on a spit), Rhodope banitsa, lamb (baked right in front of you on the coals) , trout, Melnik-style kebap, Bansky starets, sujuk, chomlek (beef stew), kebab in pumpkin (cooked over low heat, which preserves all the taste qualities of the products used).

Bulgaria is among the top five wine producers, both red (Cabernet, Mavrud, Merlot, Otel, Trakia, etc.) and white (Chardonnay, Galatea, Misket, Riesling, Tamyanka).

Attractions

Rila Monastery - Holy place Bulgaria. The monastery is recognized as a shrine not only to the Orthodox, but to the whole christian church. The Rila Monastery (officially the Monastery of St. John of Rilski) is the largest and most famous Orthodox monastery in Bulgaria, in the northwest of the Rila Mountains, 117 km south of Sofia in the Rilska River valley, at an altitude of more than 1000 m above sea level. Through the centuries, he has preserved the pride, national consciousness, honor and hope of the Bulgarian people. The monastery was founded in the 10th century by the followers of the hermit St. Ivan Rilski, whose relics are still kept here.

Rozhen monastery located in the south of the country, 6 km from the town-museum Melnik at the foot of the Pirin Mountain and almost 100 years older than the Rila Monastery. In its current form, the monastery (built by the mill ruler Slav at the turn of the 12th - 13th centuries) has been preserved as it was in the 16th century. The heyday of the monastery reached its peak in the 19th century, when it became a regional spiritual center and had numerous estates in the surrounding areas. This is the only one of the monasteries restored in the first centuries of the Ottoman yoke, which was lucky to survive later. At the beginning of the 17th century it was destroyed by fire, and in the 18th century it was restored with donations from Bulgarian patrons.

One of the most interesting sights of the capital is built of red brick on the site of the Roman rotunda. Church of St. George- the oldest temple of Sofia. On the inside of the dome, frescoes have been preserved, the earliest of which date back to the 10th century, and on the outside, the remains of the streets of ancient Serdika (the Roman name of the city) have been preserved. The most beautiful boulevard in the city - Vitosha boulevard, going from the Cathedral of St. Nedelya, past numerous underground shopping galleries, to the square of the Palace of Culture with a monument to the 1300th anniversary of Bulgaria. In the nearby building of the Palace of Justice (1936) is located National Museum history is one of the largest historical museums in the Balkans.

The city-reserve of Veliko Tarnovo, the ancient capital of the Second Bulgarian Kingdom (1185 - 1393), is definitely worth a visit Royal Palace, the picturesque towers of the Patriarchal and Balduin in fortress Tsarevets on the hill of the same name, near which the show "Sound and Light" is regularly held, which tells about the history of the city. Of interest are the picturesque Varusha quarter, the monastery of St. Peter and Paul (XIII century) and Kapinovsky, as well as the churches of St. Dimitar of Thessalonica (XI century, the oldest in the city) and St. Forty Great Martyrs (1230).

In Plovdiv, the second largest city in Bulgaria, a must see Trimontium("three hills", Old city) - the Roman forum, a theater for 3 thousand seats and the gates of Hisar Kapi (II century AD), as well as Jumaya mosques(XV century) and Imaret (1445), Cathedral of Constantine and Helena(1832) with a beautiful gallery of icons, the ruins of the Thracian city of Evmolpias (II century BC), Amphitheater of Philip II of Macedon, as well as unique churches - St. Nedelya, St. Dimitar and St. Marina(1854). Plovdiv Archaeological Museum considered one of the best in the country, the Ethnographic Museum in the Koyumcoglu house with an excellent collection of national costumes, the art gallery in the Baklanov House and the Museum of National Revival are also good.

The center of Varna is considered Cathedral of the Holy Assumption of the Virgin("Cathedral", 1880 - 1910), famous for its frescoes and unique wood carvings in the design of the patriarchal throne and iconostases. Museum of History and Art (Archaeological) is located on an area of ​​2000 square meters. m. in the beautiful building of the former Maiden's Gymnasium, and is considered the largest museum in the city. Its unique exposition contains more than 55 thousand exhibits, from the early Paleolithic to the late Middle Ages, including a unique gold collection of the 5th - 6th millennium BC. e.

The city of Nessebar is famous for its many small churches, among which the most attractive Church of St. Stephen(XI century) and famous for its miraculous icon Church of the Holy Virgin and also charming old mill, narrow cobbled streets, gentle sea, quaint white cliffs and wide sandy beaches fringed by sand dunes.

Resorts

Beach resorts: Rusalka, Albena, Kranevo, Zlatni Piasytsi, Riviera, Slynchev Den, Sveti Konstantin and Elena, Obzor, Slynchev Bryag, Dyuni. The fourth largest Bulgarian city Burgas is located in the southeastern part of the country, on the shores of the deep Foros Bay. The climate here is temperate continental with a strong influence of the sea. Burgas is a large industrial center. This is, rather, not a beach area, but a key point on the way to large seaside resorts like Slynchev Bryaga - it is at Burgas Airport that many international flights land.

Stunning ancient city Nessebar located 20 km north of Burgas, on a narrow peninsula, far out into the sea. South of the modern quarters, in the southern part of the bay, there are two good beach areas.

small town Pomorie is located on a narrow rocky peninsula jutting out into the sea for 3.5 km, 20 km northeast of Burgas. Pomorie was founded Greek colonists in the 4th century BC e., and already in those days was famous for its salt lakes, many of which had the status of sacred. Now the city is famous for the production of excellent cognacs and wines, the extraction of sea salt and healing mud. Here is one of the largest and most modern wine cellars in Bulgaria, as well as a domed Thracian tomb (3rd century) and the monastery of St. George (1856). Vacationers come here for the amazing beauty of the views and the unique microclimate. The beaches are gentle, sandy, stretching along the sea for 4.2 km.

City Varna located on the northern shore of the Varna Bay and is a popular seaside resort. This is the third largest city in Bulgaria (after Sofia and Plovdiv), considered the country's sea capital and famous for its extensive sandy beaches. In July-August, the number of sunny hours per day here reaches 10-11. The sea is surprisingly calm and safe at any time of the year.

Ski resorts: Vitosha-Aleko; Pirin, Kulinoto, Dobrinishte, Bansko; Rila, Semkovo, Panichishte, Malyovitsa, Borovets; Rhodopi, Chepelare, Pamporovo; Uzana. Complex Vitosha-Aleko is located on the southern outskirts of Sofia and is one of the highest skiing resorts of the country. More than 29 km of slopes at altitudes of 1650-2290 m are served by 12 ski lifts. For cross-country skiing, 11 km of flat skiing has been prepared. The disadvantages include quite often and dramatically changing weather.

To the mountain complex Pirin(Pirin), declared by UNESCO as a natural and cultural heritage, includes 87 steep peaks and 150 lakes, as well as an old town Bansko, lying about 160 km from Sofia, at an altitude of 930 meters above sea level.

The largest and oldest in Bulgaria ski resortBorovets located at an altitude of 1350 m above sea level on the northern slopes of the Rila Mountain, at the foot of the highest peak on the Balkan Peninsula, Musala (Moussala, 2925 m). Duration ski season here from December to April. The average temperature of the coldest month (January) is +4°C.

The most famous is the southernmost ski center Bulgaria - resort Pamporovo(260 km from Sofia, 80 km from Plovdiv), on the lands of which, according to myths, the legendary singer Orpheus lived. Pamporovo is located in the Rhodope Mountains. Height above sea level - 1650 m. The most famous peaks: Snezhanka (Snejanka, 1925 m) and Murgavets (Mourgavets, 1858 m). Hot springs gushing out of the ground gave rise to the opening of several balneological centers in Pamporovo. The temperature in winter does not fall below -7 C. The number of "snowy" days per year is 150-200, the thickness of the snow cover is 140-150 cm.

Uzana- this is a real discovery, a beautiful gem in the mountain crown of the Balkans. Situated among centuries-old oak forests at an altitude of 1300 m, the resort is part of natural park"Bulgarka". The season here runs from mid-December to early April. Total length trails - 3 km. The professional (and longest) run here is 1300 m. Beginners ski on eight shorter runs. You can also go kite surfing and ride a motorized sled. 22 km from the resort is famous city Gabrovo.

Balneological resorts: Hisarya, Sandanski, Devin, Velingrad, Byanka, Troyan, Kyustendil.

Resort Hisarya located at an altitude of 360 meters in the Sredna Gora mountain range, 42 km north of Plovdiv and 140 km east of Sofia. There are 22 mineral springs with water temperatures ranging from 37°C to 52°C. Winters are warm, mild and almost snowless. The sun shines 280 days a year. Industrial production in these places is not developed, so the environment is close to ideal.

Resort Devin located in the Rhodope Mountains, at an altitude of 684 meters, 220 km from Sofia, 100 km from Plovdiv and 45 km from Smolyan. There are about 285 sunny days a year in the mountains. In winter, the temperature drops to zero and snow falls, but the environment is usually comfortable. It is almost never hot in summer. There are many natural attractions in these parts: various waterfalls, caves, rocks and nature reserves. The Pamporovo ski resort is very close by.

Resort sandanski located in the Pirin Mountains, 160 km from Sofia and 80 km from Blagoevgrad. Sandanski is surrounded by the Pirin National Park and the ruins of ancient settlements. The resort is famous mineral springs(their temperature is from 33°C to 83°C) combined with wonderful healing mountain air. Bronchial and asthmatic diseases are cured in Sandanski in the majority of patients. You can relax here at any time of the year, as winters are mild and summers are not hot.

In the region Trojan, located 160 km from Sofia and 300 km from the Black Sea, there are two centers of balneology - Shipkovo and Chiflik. These places are famous for centuries-old forests, crystal clear air and mineral springs. Especially popular here are outdoor pools With mineral water, the temperature of which is approximately 34°C. The spa centers offer Jacuzzis, saunas, massages, aromatherapy and thalassotherapy to clients.

The Republic of Bulgaria is located in the eastern part of the Balkan Peninsula.

Bulgaria is bordered to the south by Greece and Turkey, to the west by Serbia and Macedonia, and to the north by Romania. In the east, it is washed by the waters of the Black Sea.

State symbols

Flag- a rectangular panel consisting of three horizontal equal stripes: the upper one is white, the middle one is green and the lower one is red. The first of them personifies freedom and peace, the second - forests and agriculture, the third - the blood shed in the struggle for state independence.

Coat of arms- a scarlet shield crowned with the historical crown of Bulgaria. In the shield is a rearing crowned golden lion. The shield is held by two golden crowned lions. Under the shield are oak branches and a ribbon with the motto "Union to rule silat" ("Unity gives strength").
It is generally accepted that the three lions mean the three historical lands of Bulgaria: Moesia, Thrace and Macedonia. The current coat of arms of Bulgaria was adopted by the National Assembly in 1997. This is a slightly modified version of the coat of arms used in 1927-1946. This coat of arms was based on the personal coat of arms of the Bulgarian Tsar Ferdinand I.

Brief description of the modern Republic of Bulgaria

Form of government- parliamentary republic.
head of state- President elected for 5 years.
Supreme body of the legislature a unicameral People's Assembly.
Head of the government- Prime Minister. Elected and dismissed by the People's Assembly.
Capital- Sophia.
Largest cities- Sofia, Plovdiv, Varna, Burgas, Ruse, Stara Zagora, Pleven, Dobrich, Sliven, Shumen.
Religion- freely. The traditional religion is Orthodoxy, professed by 75.96% of the population.
Territory- 110,993.6 km².
Population– 7 364 570 people Bulgarians make up 84.8% of the population, Turks - 8.8%, Gypsies - 4.9%, Russians - 0.15%.
Official language- Bulgarian.
Economy- market, industrial country with developed agriculture.
Agriculture. Main products: vegetables, fruits, tobacco, wool, wine, wheat, barley, sunflower, sugar beets.
Climate- continental and mediterranean.
Administrative division e - is divided into 28 regions, which are subdivided into 264 communities.
Education- school education is regulated by the "Law on Public Education", divided by degrees:
basic education: primary education - from 1st to 4th grade; pro-gymnasium education - from 5th to 8th grade.
Secondary education: gymnasium education - from 9 to 12 grades.
Secondary education is considered obtained after the successful completion of the 12th grade and the successful passing of the required exams. School education is free.
Higher education regulated by the Law on Higher Education.
Higher schools in Bulgaria can be public and private. Types of higher educational institutions in Bulgaria: universities (there are 47 universities in the country), specialized higher schools, colleges.
Currency- Bulgarian lev.
Sport The most popular sport is football. Bulgaria has traditionally high achievements in weightlifting and athletics, wrestling, boxing, volleyball, artistic and rhythmic gymnastics, shooting and rowing.

Tourism in Bulgaria

The country is promising in terms of tourism, there are many natural and cultural attractions. Popular Destination beach tourism- The Black Sea coast. The most popular Black Sea resorts: Albena, Golden Sands, Riviera, St. Constantine and Elena, Obzor, sunny Beach, Sozopol, Elenite, Saint Vlas.

sunny Beach

The largest sea resort in the east of Bulgaria. Located near a bay in the Black Sea with a beach 10 km long and up to 100 m wide in the central part, covered with fine yellow sand. Located between the cities of Varna and Burgas, is part of the city Nessebar, whose old part is included in the list of objects world heritage UNESCO in Bulgaria (1983)

City of Nessebar- one of oldest cities Europe. It is the successor of an ancient Thracian settlement called Mesembria, which existed from the beginning of the 1st century BC. BC e. WITH 510 BC e. it was turned into a Greek colony.
From antiquity to the present day, the ruins of the fortress wall, towers, gates, and reliefs have remained. In the old part of the city, intensive archaeological research is underway. During the excavations, the ruins of a church built IX century. n. e., as well as the remains of Byzantine terms.

Ski resorts in Bulgaria

The ski season starts here in December and lasts until February.

Bansko

The highest peak in the area is Mount Vihren (2915 m). Bansko is known as one of the best Bulgarian mining ski resorts. A stable snow cover lies here from December to April, its thickness is about 2 m. ski slopes are located at altitudes from 1100 to 2500 m. Their total length is 65 km, the longest route is 2.6 km long.
There is an 8-seater gondola lift in Bansko. There are opportunities for off-piste skiing, a snowboard park with 2 slopes with a total length of 600 m.
In addition to skiing, Bansko is known for its historical sights. south of the city Pirin National Reserve is located. It has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The park covers an area of ​​27,400 hectares, pine and spruce forests grow on most of it, and at the foot of the high peak Vihren has more than 180 lakes, mostly of glacial origin. In the vicinity of Bansko, the remains of ancient fortresses in Staroto Gradishte, a section of the cemetery in the town of Dobrokyovitsa, which dates back to the 2nd century BC, as well as the medieval settlements of the Holy Trinity, were discovered. In Bansko itself is interesting Church of the Holy Trinity. It was built in 1835 There are paintings, frescoes and icons in the church, and its walls are decorated with paintings and wood carvings.

Borovets

A popular Bulgarian ski resort, located in the suburbs of Sofia, on the northern slopes of Rila Mountain, at an altitude of 1350 m. The longest run is 5,789 m. Two ski jumps.

Pamporovo

Ski resort. It is located in the midst of a magnificent pine forest, is popular place recreation in the summer, and in winter - for skiing and snowboarding.

Natural attractions of Bulgaria

Srebarna Nature Reserve

The reserve includes Lake Srebarna and its surroundings, this area lies on the main migratory route of migratory birds between Europe and Africa, called "Via Pontica". The reserve was established in 1948., covers an area of ​​600 hectares, another 540 hectares are buffer zone. Srebarna – big lake, formed in a wide karst depression, with a depth of 1 to 3 m.
Almost 100 species of birds nest in the reserve, some of them are recognized as endangered. Approximately 80 species of birds come to the lake for the winter. Among the most remarkable birds are the curly pelican, great white, red and black herons, loaf, spoonbill. There are 6 species of fish and 35 species of amphibians in the lake.

Chuprene Reserve

One of the largest biosphere reserves in Bulgaria (area 1439.2 ha). The reserve was formed February 9, 1973, for the protection of the northern coniferous forests of Bulgaria and as an ornithological reserve for the preservation of the only natural population of capercaillie in Bulgaria. On the territory of the reserve a large number of rivers that originate in the nearby mountain slopes.
A wide variety of fauna is represented in the reserve: amphibians (11 species): fire salamander, Greek long-legged frog, common toad, etc.; reptiles (15 species): snake, viper, copperfish, etc.; mammals (53 species): fox, wolf, stone marten, pine marten, mink, forest cat, squirrel, 14 species of bats, etc.; birds (170 species): capercaillie, black vulture, owl, golden eagle, woodpecker, thrush, hawk, kestrel, lark, quail, wren and others. Chuprene is the only Bulgarian reserve where wolves live permanently.

Seven Rila Lakes

A group of lakes of glacial origin located in the northwestern Rila Mountains. The lakes are located between 2100 and 2500 m above sea level.
Each lake has its name associated with its most feature. The highest of them is called "Teardrop" due to its clear waters. The next highest lake is called "The Eye" because of its almost perfectly oval shape, etc. The lakes are stacked on top of each other and connected by small streams that form tiny waterfalls and cascades.

Yantra (river)

A feature of the river are the numerous gorges that it forms.

Rose Valley

Region in Bulgaria, located south of the Balkan Mountains. Geologically, it consists of two river valleys: striama in the west and Tunji in the east.
The valley is famous for its roses, which have been grown there for centuries for industrial purposes: 85% of the rose oil produced in the world is produced here. Rose oil production center Kazanlak, other cities: Karlovo, Sopot, Kalofera and Pavel Banya. Every year there are festivals celebrating roses and rose oil.
The collection season runs from May to June. During this period, the valley emits a pleasant aroma and is covered with colorful flowers. The harvesting process is traditionally feminine and requires great dexterity and patience. The flowers are carefully cut one at a time, placed in willow baskets and sent to the factories.

Belogradchik rocks

They are a group of strangely shaped sandstone and a conglomerate (separate fragments) of rocks located on the western slopes of the Balkan Mountains, not far from the city of Belogradchik. The rocks differ in color, some reach up to 200 m in height. Many breeds have bizarre shapes and are associated with interesting legends.

Shipka

Picturesque Mountain pass through the Balkan mountains.
During the Russo-Turkish War 1877-1878 Shipka was a battle arena where Russian soldiers fought, relying on the Bulgarian militias, and the Ottoman Empire.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Bulgaria

Boyana Church

Medieval church. Located 8 km from Sofia, in the village of Boyana at the foot of the Vitosha Mountains.
IN 10th century in the village of Boyana, the first small church was built, dedicated to St. Nicholas the Wonderworker and St. Panteleimon. At first 13th century. a new two-story church, decorated with frescoes, was added to this church.

Madara Rider

Archaeological monument, a relief image of a rider, carved on a sheer cliff at a height of 23 m. Located in the north-eastern part of Bulgaria, near the village of Madara.
The monument is dated approximately 710 year n. e. and was created during the reign of the Bulgar Khan Tervel. According to one version, there is an image of the Khan himself on the rock. According to another version, the rock relief was created by the ancient Thracians and depicts a Thracian god. There is also a third version: an image of Svyatovit (Slavic god) is carved on the rock around the end of the 6th century AD. e.

Cave churches in Ivanovo

A complex of churches, chapels and cells carved into the rocks. It is located 21 km south of the city of Ruse near the village of Ivanovo at an altitude of 32 m above the canyon of the Rusensky Lom River. The complex began to be inhabited by monks from 13th century. During the heyday of the monastery, there were 40 churches and chapels and about 300 monastic cells. After the 17th century the monastery became uninhabited, most of its buildings fell into disrepair.

Thracian tomb in Kazanlak

Part of the ancient necropolis near the city of Kazanlak. The tomb was created at the end 4th-early 3rd c. BC e. for the Thracian ruler Roigos. The walls are lined with marble slabs and decorated with frescoes. The paintings that tell about the life of the Thracians and their military victories were created by the artist Kodzamakis, who used 4 colors in his work: black, red, yellow and white. The plots of the frescoes are connected with the reign of the person for whom the tomb was built.
The tomb of the Thracian ruler was found by a soldier in 1944 during the construction of a trench in the north-eastern part of the city of Kazanlak.
Today, access to the tomb is restricted to ensure the preservation of the frescoes. An exact copy has been created for tourists.

Pirin National Park

The park was created in 1962 entitled national park Vihren with the aim of preserving forests in the highest parts of Pirin. The park occupied an area of ​​62 km², which is one sixth of the current area of ​​the park. IN 1974 it was renamed the Pirin National Park, its territory was expanded.
About 1300 species of higher plants, about 300 species of mosses and a large number of algae grow in the park. In Pirin, there are 18 local endemic species, 15 Bulgarian and many Balkan endemics, many rare and endangered species grow, including edelweiss, the symbol of Pirin.

Edelweiss

About 2090 species and subspecies of invertebrates live in the park.

Rila Monastery

Saint's monastery John of Rylsky- the largest stauropegial monastery of the Bulgarian Church. According to legend, founded in 1930s. St. John of Rylsky (876-946), whose name he bears since the reign of the Bulgarian Tsar Peter I (927-968). Saint John lived in a cave not far from the current monastery, while the monastery itself was built by his disciples who came to the mountains to continue their studies.

Thracian tomb in Sveshtari

It is located 2.5 km southwest of the village of Sveshtari in northeastern Bulgaria.
It was discovered in 1982 during the excavations of the settlement. Dated 3rd century BC. It was built, presumably, for the Thracian ruler of the Getae tribe and his wife.

Other sights of Bulgaria

Bachkovo Monastery

Monastery of the Mother of God. One of the largest and oldest Orthodox monasteries in Europe. The monastery is known and appreciated for its unique combination of Byzantine, Georgian and Bulgarian cultures, united by a common faith. The monastery was founded in 1083 Although the monastery survived the Turkish invasion of the Bulgarian land, it was plundered and destroyed, but restored at the end of the 15th century. The refectory, whose paintings by an anonymous artist are of significant artistic value, was reconstructed in 1601, and the Church of Mary - in 1604, they have survived to this day.

National Art Gallery

Located in the building of the former royal palace, built in 1880. The art gallery was founded in 1892. It contains more than 50,000 pieces of Bulgarian art.

Evksinograd

ex at the end 19th century Bulgarian summer Royal Palace and park on Black Sea coast, 8 km north of the city of Varna. It is currently the summer government and presidential residence. Since 2007 it has also hosted the annual opera festival Operosa.

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in Sofia

Bulgarian Orthodox Cathedral. Built in neo-Byzantine style, is cathedral Patriarch of Bulgaria and one of the largest Orthodox cathedrals in the world, as well as one of the symbols of Sofia and the first tourist attraction. It is the second largest cathedral on the Balkan Peninsula after the Cathedral of St. Sava in Belgrade. Basically, the construction of the cathedral was completed in 1912. It was created in honor of the Russian soldiers who died during the Russo-Turkish War of 1877-1878, as a result of which Bulgaria was liberated from Ottoman rule.

Kaliakra

A long and narrow cape in the region of the northern Bulgarian Black Sea coast, located 12 km east of the town of Kavarna. The coast is steep, with sheer cliffs to the sea.
Kaliakra is a nature reserve where you can watch dolphins, cormorants and pinnipeds. It is located on Via Pontica, one of the main migration routes for birds from Africa to Eastern and Northern Europe. In spring and autumn you can see many rare migratory birds here.
Here are also the remains of the fortress walls, plumbing, baths and the residence of the despot Dobrotitsa.

Troyan monastery

The Monastery of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin or, as it is more commonly called, the Troyan Monastery is the third largest monastery in Bulgaria. Located in the northern part of the country, in the Balkan Mountains, founded no later than at the end 16th century

Ledenika

It is a cave in the northwestern part of the Balkan Mountains, 16 km from the Bulgarian city of Vratsa, the entrance to which is 830 m above sea level. It surprises with an abundance of galleries and impressive karst formations, including stalactites and stalagmites, dating back a thousand years. The cave is about 300 m long and consists of ten separate halls. The largest of them is a concert hall. The path to it goes through the passage of sinners. Only those whose heart is pure can pass through it. Previously, the cave was filled with water, but now there is only a small lake left here - the Lake of Desires. The legend says: if you dip your hand into the icy water of the lake and make a wish, it will come true.

Chernigrad

Peak of Vitosha mountain in Bulgaria. Altitude up to 2290 m. Here is a weather station founded in 1935 A very popular place among tourists.

broken stones

Several groups of natural rock formations with total area 7 km. Basically, these are stone columns from 5 to 7 m in height. The pillars do not have a solid foundation, appearing to be stuck in the surrounding sand.
There are several theories of the origin of this phenomenon: organic or mineral. Dynamic reconstruction of the origin of these structures, fluid migration processes and possible microbial interference during carbonate deposition is under investigation by scientists from the Catholic University of Leuven, Belgium.

Nativity monastery

It is the largest monastery in southwestern Bulgaria. This is one of the few medieval Bulgarian monasteries.
The monastery church was built before 15th century. and dyed in 1597., preserved some frescoes. The monastery was devastated by fire between 1662 and 1674, the library was destroyed, and most of the buildings were seriously damaged. The monastery was rebuilt over the next century with the financial help of wealthy Bulgarians from all over the country. Reconstruction began in 1715 and was fully completed in 1732

Panorama of Plevna

Depicts the events of the Russian-Turkish war 1877-78., in particular, the five-month siege of Plevna, which made the city world famous and contributed to the liberation of Bulgaria after five centuries of Ottoman rule. More than 35,000 soldiers died here.

The panorama was created by 13 Russian and Bulgarian artists and officially presented on December 10 1977. The panorama expanded the already existing Skobelev Park, which is located on the site where three of the four major battles that led to the liberation of Bulgaria took place.

Russian church in Sofia

Officially known as the Church of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker, it is a Russian Orthodox church in the center of Sofia, located on Tsar Liberator Boulevard.
Construction started in 1907., and the church was consecrated in 1914

Monument to the Tsar Liberator

It was erected in honor of the Russian Emperor Alexander II, who liberated Bulgaria from Ottoman rule during the Russo-Turkish War of 1877-78. The foundation stone was laid on April 23 1901. in the presence of Prince Ferdinand I of Bulgaria, and the monument was completed on September 15 1903. Ferdinand also took part in the unveiling of the monument on 30 August 1907 together with his sons Boris and Kirill, Grand Duke Vladimir Alexandrovich of Russia, son of Alexander II, together with his wife and son.

National Museum of Earth and Man

This is one of the largest mineralogical museums in the world. Founded December 30 1985 and open to visitors on June 19 1987. Located in a reconstructed and adapted historic building built at the end of 19th century Has a number exhibition halls, stock rooms, laboratories, video room and conference room. Its collection covers 40% of all known natural minerals, as well as artificial ceramics made by Bulgarian scientists.
Apart from permanent exhibitions associated with minerals, the museum hosts exhibitions on other topics, as well as chamber music concerts.

Sofia Zoo

Currently, the Sofia Zoo has a huge number of exotic animals, as well as animals that live on Bulgarian soil. Was created in 1888. The zoo is constantly expanding.

Gabrovo

A city in central Bulgaria with a population of 58 thousand people. The city is considered the Bulgarian capital of humor, like Odessa, it annually hosts humor festivals. Gabrovians themselves often act as characters in jokes (the so-called Gabrovian humor), where they are usually presented as overly stingy people who want to save on everything (similar to English jokes about the Scots). In Gabrovo, there is a one-of-a-kind House of Humor and Satire, which regularly holds various humorous competitions.

House of humor and satire in Gabrovo

History of Bulgaria

Bulgarian statehood has existed since 681 g. But Proto-Bulgarians were a single ethnic group before. The first mention of the Bulgarians goes back to 354 g.

Monument to Khan Asparuh in the city of Dobrich

First Bulgarian kingdom existed since 681 By 1018 years. It was formed by the ancient Bulgarians and Slavs under the leadership of Khan Asparuh. During the period of greatest prosperity, it covered most of the Balkan Peninsula and had access to three seas. It ceased to exist as a result of the conquest by Byzantium.
Ruin ancient capital Bulgaria Pliska.
Byzantine Bulgaria existed for a short time 1018-1185.
Second Bulgarian kingdom (1185-1396). IN 1396 it was conquered by the Ottoman Empire.
Having become a part of Byzantium, after the defeat of the Western Bulgarian kingdom and the subordination of the Bulgarian Church to the Patriarch of Constantinople, Bulgaria constantly fought against Byzantium, because. many noble families were resettled in the Asian part of the empire. But all the uprisings were crushed.
IN 14th century Bulgaria has a more formidable and dangerous neighbor - the Ottoman Turks, who seized possessions in Asia Minor. Already in 20s 14th century. they began to make devastating raids on the Balkan Peninsula, and in 1352 captured the first fortress in the Balkans - Tsimpe. IN 1396 Bulgaria ceased to exist as an independent state for five long centuries.
Vidin kingdom (1396-1422)
A state that broke away from Bulgaria (Tarnovo kingdom) in 14th century. After falling into 1395 of the Tarnovo kingdom and the conquest of the Vidin kingdom in 1396, Konstantin II Asen ascended the throne of Vidin. He ruled either as a vassal of the Turkish sultan, or as the Hungarian king, and also temporarily declared independence, but his power extended to part of the former Vidin kingdom. Since 1396 By 1422. these remnants of the Vidin kingdom represented Bulgaria. There was no more dispute between Tarnovo and Vidin. A number of foreign states recognized Constantine II Asen precisely as the ruler of Bulgaria. In this form, Bulgaria continued to exist until 1422, when, after the death of Constantine II Asen, the Vidin kingdom ceased to be mentioned in the sources (apparently, it was finally liquidated by the Turks).
Ottoman Bulgaria (1396-1878)
At that time, there was no independent Bulgarian state, and the lands of the Bulgarians were under the rule of the Ottoman Empire (also called "Turkish slavery" or "Ottoman yoke" in Bulgarian historiography).
The independent Bulgarian Patriarchate was liquidated, which was subordinated to the Patriarchate of Constantinople. At first, Bulgaria was in vassalage, and in 1396 Sultan Bayezid I annexed it after defeating the Crusaders at the Battle of Nikopol.

Illustration from the "Chronicles" by J. Froissart

The Turks consolidated their power in the Balkans, becoming an even greater threat to Central Europe.
Principality of Bulgaria (1878-1908)
Under the name of the Principality of Bulgaria in history, the Bulgarian state is known from obtaining autonomy within the borders of the Ottoman Empire in 1878. before the declaration of independence in 1908. It was a constitutional monarchy with a unicameral parliament (People's Assembly). The head of state is the prince. The title of the monarch is "prince of the Bulgarians". Ruling dynasties: in 1879-1886. - Battenberg, 1887-1908 - Saxe-Coburg-Gotha. A collective regency was envisaged in the event of the incapacity of the prince.
Third Bulgarian Kingdom (1908-1946)
The Bulgarian state that existed from the declaration of independence in 1908. before the abolition of the institution of the monarchy in 1946. It was a constitutional monarchy (the Tarnovo Constitution of 1879, as amended). The king was the head of state.
World War I
IN 1915 The third Bulgarian kingdom followed Ferdinand's pro-German orientation. In an effort to annex all of Slavic Macedonia, joined the First world war on the side of Germany, Austria and Turkey. Bulgaria began to be considered in the Entente countries as a "traitor of the Slavs."
The Second World War
February 2 1941 Bulgaria and Germany signed a protocol on the deployment of German troops on the territory of Bulgaria.
March 1, 1941 Documents were signed in Vienna on Bulgaria's accession to the Rome-Berlin-Tokyo Pact.
In April 1941. Bulgaria, together with Germany and Italy, took part in the Greek operation and in the Yugoslav operation, as a result of which it received part of the coast Aegean Sea and part of Vardar Macedonia. Although Bulgaria made a claim, it did not receive either the city of Thessaloniki or Holy Mount Athos. Already in September 1941. in the area of ​​the city of Drama, inhabited by Greek repatriates from Turkey, the Bulgarian occupying forces used terror, unambiguous with genocide, after which the Third Reich reduced the territory of Central Macedonia, which was owned by the Bulgarians.
After June 22, 1941 large-scale resistance unfolded in Bulgaria. December 13, 1941 Bulgaria declared war on Great Britain and the United States, but the fighting did not follow. However, the Bulgarian cities began to be subjected to allied air raids. Bulgaria did not declare war on the USSR, but provided its territory for the deployment of German troops, discriminatory measures were also introduced in Bulgaria against the small Jewish population, but not a single Jew was deported from Bulgaria. September 5, 1944 After the capitulation of Romania, the USSR declared war on Bulgaria. The Bulgarians offered practically no resistance to the Red Army. On September 9, as a result of an uprising prepared by the forces of the Fatherland Front, the pro-German government was overthrown, and the new authorities declared war on Germany. Then an anti-communist mountain movement arose in the country.
On September 8, 1946, a referendum was held, 92.72% of the population voted for the republic.
Of the territorial acquisitions, Bulgaria retained only Southern Dobruja. 150 thousand Bulgarians were deported from Western Thrace (Greek) and from the Greek part of Macedonia. At the same time, almost the entire Greek population, who had lived on the Black Sea coast for thousands of years, was deported from Bulgaria.
People's Republic of Bulgaria (1946-1990)
As soon as the Soviet Army entered Bulgaria, on the night of September 9-10 1944 army units, together with partisan detachments, carried out a coup d'état. IN 1946. was proclaimed People's Republic of Bulgaria, the first prime minister of socialist Bulgaria was Georgy Dimitrov.

IN 1950 a consistent Stalinist becomes prime minister Vylko Chervenkov, he completes the collectivization of agriculture, suppresses the actions of the peasants, accelerates industrialization.

After Stalin's death gradually ceded influence Todor Zhivkov, who headed the Bulgarian Communist Party in 1954.
The era of Zhivkov (1954-1989)

T. Zhivkov led Bulgaria for 33 years. Relations with Yugoslavia and Greece are being restored in Bulgaria, labor camps are being closed, and the persecution of the Church is being stopped.
He was loyal to the Soviet Union, supported the suppression of the Hungarian uprising in 1956, and sent troops to help suppress the Prague Spring in 1968.
10th of November 1989 Zhivkov was removed from the posts of General Secretary of the Central Committee of the BKP and Chairman of the State Council. Prime Minister of the communist government Andrey Lukanov and Chairman of the State Council Peter Mladenov, who replaced Zhivkov in this post, took a number of steps aimed at democratizing the political system.

August 1, 1990. was elected President of Bulgaria Zhelyu Zhelev, former dissident and leader of the SDS. In November, in response to massive demonstrations and a four-day general strike, Lukanov's government resigned.
On July 12, 1991, a new constitution was adopted.

Bulgaria - wonderful country which is famous for its tourist resorts, outstanding sights and centuries-old history.

The modern capital of Bulgaria - Sophia. The city was founded in the 1st century AD, but the capital of Bulgaria, Sophia became only in 1879. The city occupied a very significant place in the history of the country. Four hundred years ago it was the second shopping mall Balkan Peninsula after Constantinople (Istanbul).

The capital of Bulgaria on the map

During its existence, the city has acquired many interesting attractions. The most recognizable among them is Cathedral of St. Alexander Nevsky. This temple was built by Russian architect Alexander Pomerantsev. Russian artists worked on the interior decoration, including the famous Viktor Vasnetsov, the author of such paintings familiar from childhood as “Three Heroes” and “Alyonushka”.

Another interesting sight Sophia - mosque Banya Bashi. This mosque, one of the oldest in Europe, was completed in the 16th century. Now its appearance reminds of the fact that in the history of the city there was an Ottoman presence. The mosque owes its birth to the Ottoman architect Haji Mimar Sinan, who created the majestic Suleymaniye Mosque in Istanbul.

Walking around the capital of Bulgaria Sofia, it is worth getting acquainted with another building, in the name of which there is the word "bath" - with Sofia Central Mineral Bath. Behind this building , the main decoration of which is an elegant facade , there is a complex of fountains , from which you can take a bottle of tasty and healthy mineral water with you .

The minimum program for tourists also includes changing of the guard at the Presidential Palace. You can enjoy how the brave guardsmen proudly march in 11 hours of the morning.

Do you know what it was called first capital Bulgaria?

Ancient capitals of Bulgaria

Pliska

First capital Bulgaria Pliska (681-893 years), was located a few km from modern city with the same name in the Shumen region. The city is notable for the fact that it was founded by Khan Asparuh, who is considered the founder of the entire Bulgarian state. Unfortunately, today this beautiful city only ruins remained. But in place ancient city open national reserve of history and archeology.

Veliki Preslav

Veliki Preslav, which is also located in the Shumen region, became second the capital of Bulgaria after the famous Preslav People's Church Council in 893. The transfer of the capital had a very serious impact on Christianization Bulgaria, since the first capital was considered pagan. During the Middle Ages, this city was considered one of the most beautiful and notable places throughout Europe.

Skopje and Ohrid

The next capitals of Bulgaria were Skopje (972-992) and Ohrid (992-1018), these cities are now in the territory Macedonia.

Capital of Bulgaria from 1185 to 1393 For years it was located in Veliko Tarnovo. This is a very colorful city with a long history. The most significant sight of the city is the ancient fortress Tsarevets standing on three hills. In the midst tourist season, the city is visited by a huge number of history buffs. The city leaves unforgettable emotions, obviously, that is why it is so loved by the Bulgarians. More about it unique city can be read

Vidin

After Veliko Tarnovo, Vidin became the capital of Bulgaria. The city is unique in that it was built by the ancient Romans. It is located near the border with Romania and Serbia. From the middle 14th century to early 15th century Vidin was the capital of Western Bulgaria. It housed the residence of the Bulgarian kings from the Shishmanovich dynasty. Among the sights of Vidin, the well-preserved medieval feudal fortress baba vida castle.

Nikopol

Nikopol was the capital of Bulgaria for only 2 years, until it was completely captured by the Ottoman army. A part of history is connected with this city, when Bulgaria was under the rule of the mighty Ottoman Empire.

Geography of Bulgaria

Bulgaria is a state in the southeast of Europe, located on the Balkan Peninsula, in its eastern part. Bulgaria is washed by the Black Sea. On land, the country borders Turkey, Greece, Serbia, Romania and Macedonia. The main territory of the country is occupied mountain ranges: Sredna Gora, Stara Planina, Rhodopes, Pirin, Rila, where Mount Musala is located - the highest point of the Balkan Peninsula with a height of 2925m. In the northern part of Bulgaria there is the Lower Danube Plain, in the south - the Upper Thracian Plain, in the central part - the Kazanlak Basin. Approximately one third of the territory of Bulgaria is occupied by forests.

State structure of Bulgaria

Bulgaria is a parliamentary republic, the head of state is the president, who is elected by direct vote for 5 years.

Weather in Bulgaria

The north of Bulgaria is characterized by a temperate continental climate, the Thracian plain is steppe, and on the coast the climate is close to the Mediterranean.

In the Danube Plain, more than 600 mm of precipitation falls annually; in early summer, precipitation is more abundant. In the Thracian Plain, the drought begins already in August, there is less rainfall. 450-500mm of precipitation in Eastern Dobruja and in the Maritsa and Tundzha rivers. But in the mountainous regions (Rila, Pirin, Rhodopes and the Balkans) more than 1000 mm of precipitation falls.

Language of Bulgaria

The official language is Bulgarian.

Almost everywhere you can explain yourself in Russian. German, English, and French are also quite common.

Religion in Bulgaria

Most of the population of Bulgaria, approximately 85% - Orthodox Christians, about 12% - Sunni Muslims. The country has 0.8% Jews and 0.5% Protestants and Catholics each.

Currency of Bulgaria

The monetary unit of Bulgaria is the lev, in one lev there are 100 stotinki.

Customs restrictions in Bulgaria

It is allowed to import into Bulgaria without paying duties 50 cigars or 200 cigarettes, wine (2 liters), or 1 liter of strong alcoholic drink, you can also import gifts and souvenirs in a reasonable amount, you can import foreign currency without restrictions. You just need to remember that if you import currency in excess of 10,000 US dollars, you need to fill out a customs declaration. You also need to declare video cameras, computers, jewelry and other expensive items.

When exporting valuables from Bulgaria, they must be included in the customs declaration. Foreign currency in the amount of less than 1,000 US dollars can be exported without providing documents, the amount from 1,000 to 10,000 dollars is entered in the declaration. In the event that a currency exceeding $ 10,000 is exported from the country, papers must be provided that explain the origin of the money.

National features of Bulgaria

Traditions

One of the distinguishing features of the Bulgarians is the way they express their agreement or disagreement. In contrast to the nod of the head in agreement accepted in Russia, the inhabitants of Bulgaria shake their heads, and in case of a negative answer, they nod.

Tips

As a rule, the restaurant bill includes the cost of service. If the tip is not included in the bill, then it is customary to leave a tip of about 10-15% of the amount on the bill. In a hairdresser and in a taxi, 10% of the total amount on the bill is left for tea. At the hotel, you can leave the amount in leva, equivalent to a dollar, for tea.

Office Hours

On weekdays, shops are open from 10 am to 8 pm, on Saturdays from 8 am to 2 pm. Banks are open from Monday to Friday from 8:00 to 11:30, then a break until 14:00 and continue to work until 18:00; on Saturdays, customers are expected in banks from 8:30 to 11:30.

Mains voltage:

220V

Code of the country:

+359

First level geographic domain name:

.bg

Emergency Phones:

Police - 166
Ambulance - 150
Fire protection - 160
Roadside Assistance - 146

Representative offices of Bulgaria in Russia:

consulate-General

Address: Moscow, 119590 Moscow, Mosfilmovskaya 66
phone: 143-67-00
fax: 232-33-02
www.bulgaria.ru

- 110994 km2.

Population of Bulgaria. 7.171 million people (

Bulgaria GDP. $55.73 billion (

Administrative divisions of Bulgaria. Consists of 8 areas which include communities. The city of Sofia also has the status of a region.

Form of government in Bulgaria. Parliamentary republic.

Head of State of Bulgaria. President elected for a term of 5 years.

Higher Legislature Bulgaria. Unicameral People's Assembly.

Bulgaria's highest executive body. Council of Ministers.

Major cities in Bulgaria. Plovdiv, Varna, Rousse, Burgas.

State language of Bulgaria. Bulgarian.

Religion in Bulgaria. 85% are Orthodox, 13% are Muslims.

Ethnic composition of Bulgaria. 87% - Bulgarians, 9% - Turks, 2.5% -, 2.5% - Macedonians.

Currency of Bulgaria. Lev = 100 stotinka.

The climate of Bulgaria. Continental, transitional. The average annual temperature is + 13°С. reaches zero in January. The average temperature of the warmest month - July - is from + 23 °С to + 25 °С. in the lowlands fall out in the amount of 500-600 mm per year, in the mountains - 1000-1200 mm per year. The entire country from west to east is crossed by the Balkan Mountains, where the vertical line is clearly visible. Highest point- Mount Musala (2925 m). Flora. Forests occupy up to 30% of the territory of Bulgaria. Here there are oak, hornbeam, beech, elm, ash, pine, spruce, fir.