The variety of climatic conditions and geographical zones has made Bulgaria one of the best holiday destinations. In a relatively small territory of the state, you can find more than 50 resorts, while the tourism business in the country continues to actively develop.

Summer holidays in Bulgaria

The length of the Bulgarian Black Sea coast is about 415 km, of which 130 are beaches with inviting warm sand. Fans of all-inclusive holidays should consider the following resorts: Albena, Golden Sands, Sunny Day, Sunny Beach, St. Constantine and Helena, Elenite, Nessebar, Riviera, Sozopol, Duni (for connoisseurs of windsurfing and other active recreation), Obzor , Mermaid.

For those who prefer an economical and relaxing family vacation, spending time in Kranevo, Pomorie, Chaika and Byala is perfect. And for connoisseurs of “wild” and contrasting holidays, Bulgaria has prepared two small resort towns - Balchik and Primorsko, where the mountains descend directly to the sea. It is worth taking into account that you will have to look for equipped beaches here, and accommodation is mainly represented by three-star hotels, but for little money.

Winter holidays in Bulgaria

The presence of two mountain ranges in the country - Pirin and Rilla-Rodopian - provides a wide selection of ski resorts for every taste. The average season is about 120 days, from December to April. There is quite enough snow in the mountains of Bulgaria - the average thickness of the cover is 1-2 m. And mild and relatively warm winters (the average temperature in winter in mountainous areas does not exceed 9 degrees below zero) provide comfortable rest and the possibility of a long stay in the fresh air.

The main ski resorts near Sofia - Vitosha and Borovets - allow you to fully enjoy all the delights of a holiday in the mountains: modern ski lifts, steep and not so steep slopes, breathtaking landscapes. Travelers visiting Plovdiv can go sledding or skiing in Pamporovo, Banya or Chepelare. Resorts such as Semkovo and Razlog are also in demand among experienced tourists.

Wellness holidays in Bulgaria

Bulgaria is famous for its hot (thermal) mineral springs, appreciated by the most ancient inhabitants of Europe. In combination with clean air - mountain or sea, water gushing from underground can not only have a healing and preventive effect, but is also an excellent addition to the treatment of many diseases.

Bulgarian springs have the maximum healing effect on the musculoskeletal system. You can improve your health in any sanatorium in the country, but the best are Chiflik, Hisar, Troyan, Devin, Kyustendil, Pavel Banya, and Varshets.

Holidays in Bulgaria

The International Surva (Survaki) Festival, held annually in the town of Pernik, near Sofia, on the last Saturday and Sunday of January, is popular among tourists. Surva is a variety of fairs, theatrical performances, folk games and festivities, ending with a crowded costume parade. In recent years, this event is quickly gaining popularity not only among European tourists: more than 6,000 guests from all over the world come to take part in traditional rituals.

In the small town of Yambol, at the end of February and beginning of March, an annual colorful festival with a masquerade procession is held - Kukerlandia. It is believed that reincarnation into images of evil spirits scares away evil spirits. Whether this is true or not is unknown, but an unforgettable experience for tourists is guaranteed.

The arrival of spring in Bulgaria is celebrated noisily and cheerfully. Interesting folk traditions are dedicated to this event: on March 1, as a sign of good wishes and protection from misfortunes, everyone ties symbolic red and white ribbons to each other - martenitsa.

May is also rich in all kinds of cultural events. From the 8th to the 13th, the largest fair in the country is organized annually in Plovdiv, which attracts folk craftsmen from all over the country. On May 18, Bulgaria celebrates International Museum Day, in honor of which the doors of the exhibition halls are open to visitors all day long. Also, as part of the event, numerous theatrical performances and open-air concerts are organized. The last week of May is famous for the beginning of the Rose Festival (each year the dates change slightly), which is held in the city of Kazanlak in even-numbered years, and in Karlovo in odd-numbered years.

Along with carefully preserving traditions, Bulgarians are open to everything new. So, on July 1, July is noisily celebrated on the Black Sea coast - a holiday that arose in the 80s of the 20th century thanks to the hippie movement and named after the song “July morning”, performed by the popular group Uriah Heep at that time. July is celebrated with dancing, fun games, and, of course, endless listening to your favorite song.

Bulgarian Navy Day (second Sunday in August) is celebrated magnificently in all coastal cities, accompanied by ship parades and the solemn oath of allegiance of sailors to the Motherland. The entire previous week, which is called “Morskaya”, is full of concerts, performances and other festive events.

On September 1, the center of cultural life in Bulgaria becomes the city of Sozopol, where Apollonia starts on this day. All 10 days of the international festival are accompanied by art exhibitions, performances by musicians of various genres, dance competitions and literary evenings.

National cuisine of Bulgaria

Bulgarians are known for their passion for a variety of meats, vegetables and herbs, and their favorite cooking methods include long-term boiling and stewing. You need to be prepared for the fact that traditional dishes of this cuisine are spicy and quite fatty. Those who want to get to know local culinary traditions better should definitely try:

• gyuvech – meat stewed with vegetables in a clay pot;
• meat or fish cooked on skara (Bulgarian grill);
• sach – fried assorted meat, vegetables or a combination of them;
• chorbu – rich, thick soups made from various ingredients.

The Bulgarian national fermented milk products deserve special attention - feta cheese (sirene) and, in fact, sour milk (kiselo mlyako). Brynza is added to almost all national dishes, especially often in salads, stewed or baked vegetables, meat and fish. Kiselo mlyako is a salad dressing, a base for sauces, or a drink on its own, a glass of which will come in handy more than ever after an eventful day.

Bulgaria is a country of vineyards, so you can taste local wine in any restaurant. Also, in almost any such establishment you can try rakia - fruit vodka based on apples, grapes, apricots or peaches, or mastic - aniseed vodka.

Money of the Republic of Bulgaria

The official monetary unit of the state is the Bulgarian lev (BNG), consisting of 100 stotinki - an analogue of our kopecks. Within the framework of the Monetary Council, the lev quotes are inextricably linked to the euro exchange rate (1 € = 1.95 BNG), which minimizes possible speculation at exchange offices. In mid-February 2016, 1 Bulgarian lev cost approximately 44 rubles, but before traveling to the country the exchange rate will have to be clarified. In addition to the lev, American dollars and euros are also often used in everyday life, but they are not accepted everywhere, so a sensible tourist should always have some national banknotes with him. Cashless payments are widespread only in large cities, which again indicates the need to always have cash with you.

It is best to exchange currency at the United Bank of Bulgaria and other official points, but in no case use the services of a money changer, as there is a very high probability of being deceived. Rubles are not accepted at all points, so the best option is to stock up on the required minimum of levs or euros in advance. At the same time, it is not worth exchanging too much money, because Bulgarian banks have a problem changing levs back to dollars; this can only be done with a limited amount when leaving the country, and at an unfavorable rate.

Paperwork

Arranging documents for visiting Bulgaria is not difficult and, in comparison with other EU countries, inexpensive. Free entry into the country is allowed to holders of multiple Schengen visas or those who have a national visa to Romania or Cyprus. If there are none, you will have to collect a simple package of papers and spend from 3 (urgent) to 7 (regular) days to obtain a national visa to Bulgaria. Until recently, self-processing of documents through the consulate in Moscow cost approximately 55 €, of which 35 € is a consular fee, about 20 € is a service fee, but from January 1, 2016, the amount of the consular fee has been reduced to 10 €. Children under 16 years of age receive a visa free of charge.

A detailed list of documents and the cost of their preparation can be found on the official website of the Bulgarian Embassy in Moscow www.mfa.bg or by contacting the consulate by phone +7 499 143 62 30 (Monday-Friday from 15.00 to 17.00). You can also use the help of travel agencies when preparing entry documents.

Accommodation in Bulgaria

A wide selection of good cheap hotels has long been one of the main advantages of Bulgaria in the tourism sector. Bargain hunters won't have to look too far for a bargain, while those looking for a more comfortable stay won't be disappointed either, with first-class hotels in cities and beach resorts offering as many amenities as any other country in the world.

When planning a trip to Bulgaria or any other country, it is important to take care of accommodation in advance. You can try to rent a room or apartment directly from the owners yourself. But you should think about this in advance, at least a couple of months before your planned trip: in Bulgaria there is a crazy demand for housing, especially during the season. The choice of hotels is wide in almost all cities of the country: for every taste and wallet size.

Overall, it is one of the cheapest travel countries in Europe. A room for two in hotels in small resort towns such as Kranevo or Pomorie will cost an average of 30 leva per day (about 15 euros). Accommodation in hotels in more popular resorts depends on the number of stars, for example, a double room in 4-star hotels will cost about 200 leva per day. The price of a detached house on the seashore ranges from 60-80 leva. When looking for accommodation in Bulgaria, you can use the services of trusted travel companies or our website, this will help you avoid scammers and guarantee acceptable living conditions.

Camping in Bulgaria is not the best choice, since nowhere except the Black Sea coast there are real facilities for campers in this way. Contact the Bulgarian Tourist Office in Sofia (tel: 02-987-97-78) for more details. “Wild” camping is illegal.

Hostel

There are many good cheap youth hotels in Bulgaria with shared bedrooms for about 20 leva per night or even less. The best ones get busy during high season, so advance booking is recommended.

Transport

Public transport is represented by buses, trolleybuses, trams and the country's only metro line, located in Sofia. Transport does not operate around the clock, so the schedule must be checked immediately before traveling to Bulgaria. Travel documents are sold at bus stops, at newsstands or directly from the driver. It is important not to forget to validate your tickets, otherwise you may get caught by the inspector and then you will have to pay a fine of 1 lev.

If you have an international driver's license, you can rent a car. It will cost about 30-60 leva per day, but it is worth taking into account that the roads in the provincial towns of the country leave much to be desired.

Taxi

Bulgarian taxi drivers once had a reputation as real robbers. Now, thanks to legislation, all cars are equipped with meters, and drivers (at least in Sofia) are required to issue receipts. This does not mean that tourists are never scammed out of extra money; this happens sometimes. But if you keep a cool head and always use a taxi with the company name (“Yellow Taxi”, tel.: 02-911-19; “Euro Taxi”, tel.: 02-910-33; “Sofia Taxi”, tel.: 02- 974-47-47; “OK Supertrans”, tel.: 02-973-21-21 in Sofia), then the trips will be amazingly cheap. Don't expect drivers to speak English, but you can ask your hotel concierge or restaurant waiter to call a taxi for you.

The railway network is well developed, tickets are cheap and trains run on time, albeit rather slowly. Even express trains with optimistic names InterCity and Expres do not live up to expectations. The fastest of the five daily trains from Sofia to Varna takes eight and a half hours. If you want to travel by rail, it's best to do it at night in an inexpensive sleeping car (spalen). Buying tickets can be a labor-intensive process; don't expect help from the cashiers. It is best to buy tickets at the Wasteels office, to the left of the entrance to Sofia Station.

Bus and taxi

In Bulgaria, intercity bus service has been developed, which is indispensable in small mountain villages and towns remote from busy highways. Traveling by this type of transport will cost a tourist an average of 9 leva per 100 km. A convenient way to get around is by taxi, which in Bulgaria is easily recognized by the yellow color of the cars and the characteristic checkered design.

After spending an unforgettable vacation, you always want to please your loved ones with cute gifts and take something for yourself as a souvenir of a pleasant vacation. Fortunately, the choice of souvenirs in Bulgaria is very large.

When it comes to gifts for the fair half of humanity, things are as simple as shelling pears - be sure to purchase natural Bulgarian cosmetics based on rose extracts. All kinds of creams, lotions, soaps, shampoos and much more can be found not only in the vicinity of the Rose Valley, but throughout the country. Elegantly packaged, such gifts will please every woman.

Men will most likely appreciate souvenir alcohol: rakia, cognac or wine, infused according to the best traditional recipes, will allow you to touch the national spirit of this people.

Rose jam is a delicious souvenir from Bulgaria, sold in almost any grocery store. The characteristic pleasant taste will remind you of this hospitable country for a long time.

Sharena sol is a favorite seasoning of Bulgarians, which is salt mixed with spices. It goes well with any dish and has an unusual and aesthetic appearance.

Tablecloths, napkins, small rugs woven from the finest sheep wool and decorated with ethnic embroidery are an excellent gift that can add zest to the interior. But for such souvenirs, you will most likely have to go to small villages at the foot of the mountains.

Handmade wooden and ceramic dishes with ornate patterns will please any housewife, and thick-walled clay pots are suitable for preparing stewed meats and vegetables - perhaps even according to Bulgarian recipes.

Also in Bulgaria, at almost every step you can buy classic souvenirs: magnets, key rings, T-shirts, small figurines, etc. The only advice for tourists is to try not to put off purchasing gifts until the last day: at airports and train stations they are significantly overpriced, and the choice is limited.

The Bulgarian customs service is quite loyal, so there are no significant restrictions on the export of goods, except for the standard ban for all countries on the transport of weapons, prohibited narcotic or flammable substances, as well as items of historical value.

Cloth

Bulgarians have few preconceptions about clothing, but note that local women cover their heads when entering a church or cathedral, although foreigners are not required to do the same. If you are invited to a Bulgarian home, you must take off your shoes or at least offer to do so.

Bicycles for rent

Cycling is not popular in Bulgaria and there are almost no cyclists in the cities. In ski resorts such as Vitosha, Bansko, Pamporovo and Borovets, you can rent mountain bikes in large hotels for about 20 leva per day, leaving a credit card as a deposit. Large hotels on the Black Sea coast also rent bicycles.

Car rental

To see the best of Bulgaria, it is recommended to rent a car for one or two days, but this is relatively expensive: prices start from about 120 levs per day. However, gasoline is cheap. All major rental companies have branches throughout the country, including Varna and Sofia airports, and cars can be rented at most major hotels. Roads are generally in poor condition and traveling at night can be dangerous.

Another option is to rent a car with a driver. To do this, it is better to approach a taxi driver in a big city, ask if he is free, and then negotiate a price. You are unlikely to be refused, and you can find common ground for about 100 leva per day plus the cost of gasoline, food and overnight accommodation.

Driving

In Bulgaria, traffic is on the right, although in rural areas they turn a blind eye to such rules at best. If you bring a car to Bulgaria, you must have a driver's license and proof of international insurance coverage (green card).

Those who forgot to do this can buy insurance at the border. Your passport will be stamped confirming that you arrived by car. If you try to leave the country by any other means, you will have to explain what happened to the car.

Getting around big cities is no worse or better than most other countries, but outside the cities it's a different story. There are only two real motorways in Bulgaria: Sofia - Plovdiv (partially) and Sofia - Pravets, and both have tolls. Other roads between cities are mostly two or one lane. The roads are generally poorly signposted, so bring a detailed map or navigator. The road surface is uneven and not well lit, so be careful at night. As you drive through villages, beware of the occasional gypsy cart and unattended animals. The speed limit is 60 km/h in cities, 80 km/h on open roads and 120 km/h on motorways, although Bulgarians pay little attention to this.

Information for disabled people

Bulgaria is making huge strides towards accommodating travelers with disabilities, but mobility remains difficult. Sofia is ahead of the rest: there are simple ramps for wheelchairs in many public squares, museums and other attractions, as well as metro stations. There are many hotels on the Black Sea coast that can take care of disabled tourists. In mountain resorts and other cities, things are more complicated.

Health and medical care

Bulgaria(Bulgaria) - a state in the southeastern part of Europe, located on the Balkan Peninsula. Republic of Bulgaria– a hospitable country that welcomes tourists. The country is distinguished by affordable holidays (compared to other European countries), while demonstrating first-class service in all its manifestations. Bulgaria– these are ski resorts with slopes of varying levels of difficulty, these are the golden sands of the Black Sea coast, these are wonderful nature and healing resorts.

Bulgaria is a country golden sands»

1. Capital

Capital of Bulgaria- ancient city Sofia(Sofia City), whose history goes back thousands of years. The capital inherited its name from the main attraction - the cathedral Hagia Sophia. Sofia is located in the western part Bulgaria, at the foot of Vitosha Mountain. Sofia– these are historical and architectural monuments, magnificent mountain nature and green city parks, large shopping and entertainment centers and hotels, ski resorts and mineral springs.

2. Flag

Flag of Bulgaria (Flag of Bulgaria) - a rectangular panel with an aspect ratio of 2:3, consisting of three horizontal stripes of equal width: white (top), green (intermediate) and red (bottom). The white stripe is the personification of peace and freedom; green strip natural resources Bulgaria, and green is also considered the traditional color of Bulgarian kings; the red stripe is the blood of the Bulgarians, shed in the battles for state independence.

3. Coat of arms

Coat of arms of Bulgaria (Coat of arms of Bulgaria) is a garnet-colored shield with the image of a lion standing on its hind legs, which is held by two golden shield-bearing lions. The shield is located on oak branches. At the top of the composition there is a large crown of the Bulgarian kings, and at the bottom there is a ribbon with the national motto of Bulgaria « Unity gives strength » (« Union of pravi silat»).

The lion is a symbol of courage and bravery; three lions - three historical regions of the state: Moesia, Thrace and Macedonia; the garnet color of the shield is the blood of patriots shed in battles for state independence; gold color is a symbol of wealth and abundance; crown is a symbol of history; oak branches are a symbol of perseverance, and their green color is a symbol of fertility.

4. Anthem

listen to the anthem of Bulgaria

5. Currency

Official currency of Bulgaria — Bulgarian Lev, equal to 100 stotinki (letter designation BGN, code 975). The name lion, the currency received from the Dutch coin “leeuwendaalder”, on which a lion was depicted. In circulation there are coins in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 stotinki and 1 lev, as well as banknotes in denominations of 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100 levs. Bulgarian currency to ruble exchange rate or any other currency can be viewed on the currency converter below:

Appearance of Bulgarian coins

Appearance of Bulgarian banknotes

6. Bulgaria on the world map

Bulgaria- a state in the southeastern part of Europe, located on the Balkan Peninsula, on the Black Sea coast, square which is 110,910 km² . Bulgaria borders: in the north - with Romania, in the south - with Turkey and Greece, in the west - with Serbia, Montenegro and Macedonia, in the east it is washed by the waters of the Black Sea. Across the sea Bulgaria has connections with Russia, Ukraine and Georgia.

The country has three geographical regions: the first is the Danube Plain; the second is a mountain range consisting of the Balkan and Rhodope systems; the third is the Southeast Plain. The main river of the country is the Danube, which forms a natural border between Bulgaria and Romania.

8. What is worth seeing in Bulgaria?

- these are monasteries and churches, historical monuments and museums, national parks and reserves, hot springs and ski resorts, beautiful beaches and invigorating water parks.

Here's a small one list of attractions, which you should pay attention to when planning excursions around Bulgaria:

• Aqua Planet water park in Primorsko
• Ancient fortress of Serdika
• Bachkovo Monastery
• Varna Archaeological Museum
• Valley of Roses
• Dragalevsky Monastery
• Evksinograd
• Stone forest in Varna
• Banya-Bashi Mosque
• Aladzha Monastery
• National Art Gallery of Bulgaria
• Saint Anastasia Island
• Park Borisova Gradina
• Rila Monastery
• Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Varna
• Thracian tomb in Kazanlak
• Temple - monument to St. Alexander Nevsky in Sofia
• Wonderful rocks

9. Largest cities in Bulgaria

List of ten largest cities in Bulgaria

• Sofia (the capital of Bulgaria) - (Sofia the capital of Bulgaria)
• Plovdiv (Plovdiv)
• Varna
• Burgas
• Rousse
• Stara Zagora
• Pleven
• Sliven
• Dobrich
• Pernik

10. Climate

Climate of Bulgaria in most of the territory it is temperate continental, with a fairly clear division of four seasons. The southern part of the country and coastal areas have a Mediterranean climate. The average summer temperature is +19°С +26°С, and in the hottest month – July, it can reach +30°С. The water remains warm until the end of September. The average winter temperature is -1°C + 1°C, and in mountainous areas it can drop to -14°C - 16°C. The average amount of precipitation per year is 900–1000 mm in the mountains and 650–700 mm in the plains.

11. Population

Makes up 7,070,039 people (as of February 2017), of which 82% are Bulgarians, 9.5% are Turks, 4.6% are Roma, 0.3% are Russians. The country is also home to Armenians, Romanians, Ukrainians, Greeks and Jews. The average life expectancy of the local population is: men – 68 years, women – 75 years.

12. Language

State language of Bulgaria – Bulgarian , it is spoken by 82% of the country's total population. Quite common are: Turkish - 9.5%, Roma - 4.6% and Russian - 0.3%. Less common: Armenian, Romanian, Greek, Ukrainian, Macedonian, Tatar, Arabic and Hebrew.

13. Religion

Religion of Bulgaria. The country's constitution provides for freedom of religion. Of the entire population of the country, 82% consider themselves believers. Of these, 85.2% are Orthodox Christians, 12.5% ​​are Muslims, 1.1% are Catholics, 0.5% are Protestants and a small part of other world religions.

14. Holidays

National holidays in Bulgaria:

• January 1 - New Year January 6 - Epiphany
• January 7 - Midsummer's Day (in honor of John the Baptist)
• February 14 - Valentine's Day (Valentine's Day)
• March 3 - Day of the Liberation of Bulgaria from Ottoman Slavery
• moving date in April - May - Orthodox Easter ("Velikden")
• May 1 - Labor Day
• May 6 - Day of St. George the Victorious (Day of the Bulgarian Armed Forces)
• May 24 - Day of Slavic Literature and Culture
• June 1 - International Children's Day
• August 15 – Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
• September 6 is the Day of the Unification of Bulgaria.
• September 22 - Independence Day
• December 6 — Constitution Day
• December 24 — Christmas Eve
• December 25 – Christmas Day

15. Souvenirs

Here's a small one list most common souvenirs which tourists usually bring from Bulgaria:

• aromatic spices
• Bulgarian wines
• wallets in the form of various animals, fruits or vegetables
• copper turrets for brewing coffee
• natural cosmetic
• bee products
• crafts made of wood and ceramics
• textile
• jewelry and silver and gold

16. “Neither nail nor rod” or customs rules

There are no restrictions on the import and export of currency, however, amounts over $10,000 or 7,000 € must be declared. When importing, jewelry, photo and video equipment are also declared, which must subsequently be taken out of the country.

Allowed:

Persons over the age of 17 can import: 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars or 250 grams. tobacco, 1 liter of strong alcoholic drinks (more than 22%), 2 liters of alcohol less than 22%, no more than 500 grams. coffee or 200 gr. coffee extract, 100 gr. tea or 40 gr. tea extract. As well as other goods for personal use in the amount of 175 euros per person.

Forbidden:

To Bulgaria The import of meat and dairy products (including sausages and chocolates) is prohibited. The exception is baby food and special food for people with various diseases, but in these cases the products must be well packaged and their weight should not exceed 2 kg. If meat and dairy products are found, they will be confiscated, and a fine will be charged to the person carrying them.
To Bulgaria The import of drugs, weapons, ammunition, explosives, potent psychotropic or toxic substances, rare and protected animals and plants is prohibited. As well as items of historical, artistic or other value.

Plants and animals:

All animals, plants, and products of plant origin must be presented to the quarantine service. The import and export of pets is permitted only with a certificate of vaccination against rabies, made no earlier than 12 months and no later than 30 days before the date of entry to Bulgaria. You must also have a medical certificate for your pet, received at least 5 days before entering the country.

17. Voltage in the electrical network in Bulgaria

Electrical voltage: 230 IN, at a frequency of 50 Hz. Socket type: Type C, F.

18. Telephone code and domain name Bulgaria

Country dialing code: +359
Geographic first level domain name: .bg

Dear reader! If you have been to this country or have something interesting to tell about Bulgaria . WRITE! After all, your lines can be useful and educational for visitors to our site "Across the planet step by step" and for all travel lovers.

The official name is the Republic of Bulgaria (Republic of Bulgaria). Located in South-Eastern Europe. Area 111 thousand km2. Population - 7.9 million people. (2002). The official language is Bulgarian. The capital is Sofia (1.19 million people, 2002). Public Holiday. Day of liberation from the Ottoman yoke March 3 - Monetary unit - lev.

Member of the UN (since 1955), IMF (since 1990), WTO (since 1996), Central European Free Trade Agreement (since 1999), official candidate for EU membership, has the status of an invited member of NATO.

Sights of Bulgaria

Geography of Bulgaria

It is located in the northeast of the Balkan Peninsula between 44°13’ and 41°14’ north latitude, 22°22’ and 28°36’ east longitude. The total length of the state border is 2245 km, incl. 686 km river and 378 km sea. In the north, Bulgaria borders on Romania, in the south on Turkey and Greece, on the west on Macedonia and Serbia, and the eastern part of Bulgaria is washed by the Black Sea.

The natural conditions of Bulgaria are quite diverse. OK. 30% of its territory is occupied by mountains and approximately 70% by flat and hilly lands. In the middle part of the country, the Stara Planina (Balkan Mountains) stretches from west to east with its highest peak. Hristo Boteva (2376 m). In the south and southwest of the country there are mountain ranges: Rila (the highest peak in the Balkans, Musala - 2925 m), Pirin (Vihren - 2914 m), and the Rhodope Mountains.

There are relatively many rivers in Bulgaria, but only the Danube is navigable. The rivers - Iskar, Tundzha, Maritsa, Yantra, etc. - are shallow and are used as a source of electricity and irrigation.

In the north is the most extensive Danube hilly plain. In southern Bulgaria lies the fertile Thracian Plain. The capital Sofia is located in the Great Sofia Basin. The Black Sea coast of Bulgaria is predominantly low with an extensive beach strip.

Peculiarities of relief and climate in different areas determined the diversity of soil cover and vegetation. On the Danube Plain, the soils are predominantly chernozem and gray forest podzolized; south of Stara Planina, brown and dense chernozems predominate; Mountain areas are characterized mainly by brown forest and mountain meadow soils.

OK. 1/3 (3.9 million hectares in 1987) of the country’s territory is occupied by forests, of which approximately 2/3 are deciduous species (beech, oak, hornbeam, etc.) and 1/3 are coniferous (spruce, pine, fir ).

Of the mineral resources, the most important are lead-zinc, copper and iron ores, brown and hard coal, table salt, kaolin, gypsum, marble, etc. Bulgaria is rich in springs (about 500) of mineral waters with high medicinal properties.

The climate of the predominant part of Bulgaria is moderate continental. In the south, especially in the valleys of the Struma and Mesta rivers, it is transitional to the Mediterranean. The average air temperature ranges from 11.8 to 13.2°C; minimum between 1.8 and 3°C; and the maximum is 23-25°C. Average annual precipitation is 650 mm. The beauty and diversity of nature, mild climate and extensive comfortable beaches attract numerous tourists to Bulgaria.

Population of Bulgaria

In 1965-85 there was a tendency towards population growth (from 8.2 to 8.9 million people, respectively), which in the 1990s. changed to the opposite. To the beginning 2002 the population decreased by 11% compared to 1985. The ethnic composition of the population is dominated by Bulgarians (approx. 84%, 2001). Of the other ethnic groups, the most numerous are Turks (9.5%) and Roma (4.6%). According to the 2001 population census, the native language of 84.5% of the population is Bulgarian, 9.6% is Turkish, and 4% is Roma. The ratio of fertility and mortality in the 20th century. led to a downward trend in natural population growth, which, however, to the end. 1980s was positive. In 2001, the birth rate was 8.6‰, mortality - 14.1‰, infant mortality - 14.4 people. per 1000 newborns. In the 1990s. natural increase became negative: –5.5‰ (2001). Average life expectancy (1998-2000) - 71.7 years, incl. men - 68.2, women 75.3 years.

The process of population aging is underway. In the age structure, the share of young people (under 20 years old) decreased from 51.1% in 1900 to 21.8% in 2001, and the elderly (60 years and older) increased from 8.4 to 22.5%. It has been increasing since 1956. excess of the female population, by the beginning. 2002 men 48.7% of the population, women - 51.3%, for every 1000 men there were 1053 women. During urbanization, the urban population grew rapidly, accounting for 46.5% in 1965, and 69.3% by 2002. In Bulgaria, the retirement age is gradually increasing. In 2003, under a number of conditions, it was 57 years for women and 62 years for men. Educational level of the population: St. 52% over 7 years of age have higher and secondary education (2001).

The dominant religion is Orthodoxy, which is followed by ca. 82.6% of the population, 12.2% are Muslims, 0.6% are Catholics, 0.5% are Protestants, 3.6% are unidentified (2001).

History of Bulgaria

The earliest settlements on the territory of modern Bulgaria date back to the Paleolithic era. The oldest known population is the Thracian tribes. By the 1st century. AD the Thracian lands came under the rule of the Roman Empire, and after its collapse in the 5th century. found themselves within the Byzantine Empire. Gradually the Thracians were assimilated by the Slavs, who in the 6th century. began to settle en masse on the Balkan Peninsula. In the 7th century. The northeastern part of present-day Bulgaria was invaded by proto-Bulgarians of Turkic origin under the leadership of Khan Asparukh. In alliance with the Slavs, their fight against Byzantium was crowned with success. In 681, Byzantium recognized the formation of the Bulgarian state, headed by Khan Asparukh, and Pliska was chosen as the capital.

At 8 and beginning 9th centuries The territory of the state was significantly expanded. In 864 Christianity was adopted as the official religion. In the 2nd half. 9th century brothers Cyril (Constantine the Philosopher) and Methodius, creators of the Slavic alphabet, spread Slavic writing. During the time of Tsar Simeon (893-927), the most prominent of the rulers of the First Bulgarian Kingdom, new territorial acquisitions moved the borders of the state to the shores of the Aegean Sea. The independence of the Bulgarian Church from the Patriarch of Constantinople was proclaimed. Slavic writing was introduced. The Bulgarian language became the official state, church and literary language. Under Simeon's heirs, however, internal strife arose, which weakened the country. After long wars with Byzantium, Bulgaria again came under its rule in 1018.

In 1186, an uprising led by the brothers Peter and Asen led to the formation of a new Bulgarian state, known as the Second Bulgarian Kingdom (1186-1396). Tarnovo became its capital. However, internal strife led to the middle. 14th century to the division of the country into two kingdoms: Vidin and Tarnovo. Feudal fragmentation weakened Bulgaria. In 1396 it was conquered by the Ottoman Empire, under whose yoke it was for almost five centuries.

All this time, the Bulgarian people resisted the enslavers and managed to preserve their identity and culture. From the beginning 18th century The national liberation movement began to gain strength, which at first was educational, and later acquired a revolutionary character. Raising the level of organization of the national liberation struggle and justifying the revolutionary path is closely connected with the name of the writer and publicist, educational figure G. Rakovsky (1821-67). Among the outstanding figures of the national liberation movement, its ideologists, strategists and organizers were also national heroes V. Levsky, L. Karavelov, Kh. Botev. The apogee of the national liberation struggle was the April Uprising of 1876, which was brutally suppressed.

As a result of the victory of the Russian army in the war with Turkey (1877-78), the Bulgarian state was restored, but by decision of the Berlin Congress (1878), Bulgaria was divided into three parts: the Principality of Bulgaria (Northern Bulgaria and the Sofia region); Eastern Rumelia (Southern Bulgaria - an autonomous region, vassal to Turkey) and Thrace with Macedonia, which remained within the Ottoman Empire. In 1885, the Principality of Bulgaria and Eastern Rumelia united. In 1887 Ferdinand of Saxe-Coburg Gotha (1887-1918) became Prince of Bulgaria. In 1908, Bulgaria finally freed itself from vassal dependence on Turkey, and Prince Ferdinand was proclaimed king of the Bulgarians.

Bulgaria with Greece, Serbia and Montenegro participated in the 1st Balkan War (1912) against Turkey for the freedom of Thrace and Macedonia. However, contradictions between the former allies regarding the division of the liberated territories led to the 2nd inter-allied Balkan War (1913), in which Bulgaria was defeated and lost not only the lands acquired as a result of the 1st Balkan War, but also part of the former territories, losing the South Dobruja Romania. Serbia and Greece divided almost all of Macedonia between themselves. The Pirin region and Western Thrace, which gave access to the Aegean Sea, were left to Bulgaria.

Participation in World War I on the side of Germany had dire consequences for the country. According to the Neuilly Peace Treaty (1919), Bulgaria lost its western outskirts and Western Thrace. Southern Dobruja, which was actually included within Bulgaria during the war, was again lost and passed to Romania. In 1918, Tsar Ferdinand abdicated the throne in favor of his son Boris III (1918-43). In August 1943, after the sudden death of Tsar Boris, the young Simeon II became his successor, under whom a regency was created.

During World War II, Bulgaria collaborated with Nazi Germany and its allies. On September 5, 1944, the USSR declared war on Bulgaria, and on September 8, Soviet troops crossed the Bulgarian border. This contributed to the activation of political forces that fought against fascism and rallied around the Fatherland Front (Front). On September 9, 1944, the government of the United Front was formed, headed by K. Georgiev. In 1946, a referendum was held on the form of government, as a result of which Bulgaria was proclaimed a People's Republic (September 15, 1946). After this, Tsar Simeon, Tsarina Mother and Princess Marie-Louise left the country.

On November 22, 1946, a new government of the United Front was formed, headed by G. Dimitrov. On February 10, 1947, at the Paris Peace Conference, a peace treaty was signed with Bulgaria, which confirmed the national independence and territorial integrity of the country, the annexation of Southern Dobruja, transferred to Bulgaria by Romania in 1940. After the death of G. Dimitrov (1949), the government was successively headed by V. Kolarov, V. Chervenkov, A. Yugov. In March 1954, T. Zhivkov became the head of the Communist Party, in 1962-71 he was simultaneously chairman of the Council of Ministers, and in July 1971 he was elected chairman of the State Council of the country. Zhivkov remained party leader and head of state until his resignation on November 10, 1989.

In the course of the course pursued by the Communist Party to build socialism, a party-state political system was formed, and political parties outside the Fatherland Front ceased to exist. A high degree of nationalization of property was allowed. Accelerated industrialization was carried out with an emphasis on the priority development of mechanical engineering, oriented towards export to the countries of the Council for Mutual Economic Assistance, primarily to the USSR.

In November 1989, the countdown of democratic transformations and systemic transformation of society in Bulgaria began. In June 1990, elections were held to the Great People's Assembly, which adopted a new Constitution, which came into force in July 1991.

Government structure and political system of Bulgaria

According to the Constitution (1991), Bulgaria is a republic with parliamentary governance, a single state with local self-government. Autonomous territorial entities are not allowed in Bulgaria. Its territorial integrity is inviolable. Political life is based on the principle of political pluralism.

The economy, according to the Constitution, should be based on free economic initiative. The right to property and inheritance is guaranteed and protected by law. Property - private and public. Private property is inviolable.

Administratively, Bulgaria is divided into 28 regions, incl. capital Sofia (as a region). The largest cities: Plovdiv, Varna, Burgas, Ruse.

The highest legislative body is the unicameral People's Assembly (parliament). It consists of 240 deputies who are elected for 4 years on the basis of a proportional system. Parliamentary elections are based on the principles of universal, equal and direct suffrage by secret ballot. The right to participate in elections is granted to all Bulgarian citizens upon reaching 18 years of age, and any citizen of the country who does not have another citizenship and has reached 21 years of age can be elected. Parties and coalitions that receive at least 4% of the total number of votes cast have the right to participate in the distribution of mandates at the national level. People's representatives, as noted in the Constitution, represent not only their voters, but the entire people. Parliament elects the chairman, temporary and permanent commissions. Chairman of the People's Assembly (2002) - Ognyan Gerdzhikov. Elections to the current People's Assembly of the 39th convocation took place on June 17, 2001. It included: 120 representatives of the National Movement “Simeon the Second” (NDSV); 51 deputies from the United Democratic Forces (UDF) coalition; 48 - from the coalition “For Bulgaria”; 21 - from the coalition “Movement for Rights and Freedoms” (DPS).

The main executive body is the Council of Ministers (government), which is headed by the Prime Minister. The government is elected by parliament on the proposal of the prime minister, who is assigned by the president to form the government in accordance with the established procedure. Under the leadership of the government, the domestic and foreign policies of the state are carried out, public order and national security are ensured. The Council of Ministers exercises general management of the state administration and the Armed Forces, and the execution of the state budget. The activities of the government are directly controlled by parliament.

The Prime Minister directs the overall policy of the cabinet and is responsible for it. Members of the government may not engage in activities incompatible with the position of people's representative. Civil servants must be guided only by the law and be politically neutral.

On July 24, 2001, the People's Assembly approved Simeon of Saxe-Coburg Gotha, a representative of the largest parliamentary group of the NDSV, as Prime Minister.

Simeon of Saxe-Coburg Gotha (born 1937) is the son of the Bulgarian Tsar Boris III. In 1946, after a referendum on declaring Bulgaria a republic, he left the country. Since 1951 he lived in Spain. Studied law and political science.

The head of state is the president. He is the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, personifies the unity of the nation and represents the country in international relations. The President is elected by direct vote for a term of 5 years and no more than two mandates. More than half of the voters must participate in voting. The candidate who receives more than half of the valid votes is considered elected.

The President appoints and dismisses the senior command staff of the Armed Forces. He chairs the National Security Advisory Council. The President is given the power to declare war, martial law or a state of emergency when the People's Assembly is not in session.

The President sets the date for elections to the People's Assembly and local government bodies. It determines the date of the national referendum when the People's Assembly decided to hold it.

After consultations with parliamentary groups, the president instructs the candidate for prime minister nominated by the largest parliamentary group to form a government.

A Bulgarian citizen over 40 years of age who was born in Bulgaria, meets the conditions for election as a people's representative and has lived in the country for the last 5 years can be elected President. The president cannot be a deputy, engage in other state, public and economic activities, or participate in the leadership of a political party.

The first popularly elected president was Zhelyu Zhelev (1992), who was succeeded by Pyotr Stoyanov (1996). They were elected as candidates of the Union of Democratic Forces. In the presidential elections in November 2001, Georgi Parvanov, the former leader of the Bulgarian Socialist Party, was elected president.

The main administrative-territorial unit is the community with a self-government body - the community council. It adopts annual budgets and community development plans. The functions of the executive power in the community are carried out by the committee. A region is a larger administrative-territorial unit, headed by a government-appointed regional manager with his own administration. In this way, regional government policy is implemented and a combination of national and local interests is ensured.

The Bulgarian Constitution guarantees the freedom to form political parties. However, none of them can be declared or approved as state ones. The formation of parties on an ethnic, racial or religious basis, as well as parties whose goal is the violent seizure of power, is not permitted. According to the Law on Political Parties (2001), a party can be formed by Bulgarian citizens who have the right to vote, and for its registration in court it is necessary to provide a constituent act, charter and a list of at least 500 founding members. The multi-party system is in the process of formation. In 2001, there were more than 250 parties in Bulgaria, most of which are small and, according to established standards, cannot independently participate in elections.

In Bulgaria, until 2001, there was basically a bipolar model of political space, where the two largest formations were in conflict: the Bulgarian Socialist Party (BSP) (successor to the Bulgarian Communist Party) and the Union of Democratic Forces (SDS). The BSP, being the largest and most organized force on the left side of the political spectrum, was not homogeneous, which affected the pace of formation of the new face of the party. The SDS, as the core of the organized opposition to the left flank, until 1997 was a coalition of parties, movements and associations with different ideological and political views - from conservative to center-right. In the parliamentary elections (April 1997), the SDS acted as a political party.

In the elections of June 17, 2001, more than three dozen parties and coalitions competed for parliamentary seats. As a result, the following most influential political forces found themselves in parliament. The victorious NDSV, created shortly before the elections. In 2002, it was transformed into a party, the program declaration of which noted that it would be both conservative and liberal, and would have a social orientation. The defeated former ruling center-right party SDS is the core of the United Democratic Forces (UDF) coalition. The coalition “For Bulgaria”, in which left and center-left movements united around the largest Bulgarian Socialist Party (BSP). In these elections, the BSP received its lowest result in the 1990s. The Movement for Rights and Freedoms (MRF), whose electorate is represented mainly by the national minority - ethnic Turks.

Trade union associations at the industry and national levels take an active part in the public life of the country. The Confederation of Independent Trade Unions of Bulgaria (KNSB) and the Labor Confederation Podkrepa play an important role in establishing social partnerships. Among the leading organizations of the business community are the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Union of Employers of Bulgaria, the Chamber of Commerce, etc.

During 1991-2001, parliamentary elections were held in Bulgaria 4 times, twice early. During the same time (until July 2001), 7 governments changed (including two service ones). Only the government led by former SDS leader I. Kostov (1997-2001) used its mandate fully. As a rule, changes in cabinets occurred in the wake of dissatisfaction with the results of socio-economic policy, due to insufficient consideration of the social tolerance of radical measures, and the involvement of managers in corruption.

In the beginning. 1990s in conditions of widespread liberalization of economic life, the main emphasis was on achieving macroeconomic stabilization by reducing consumer and investment demand. This, it was believed, should have been accompanied by systemic transformations and the formation of a market infrastructure. Restitution of alienated property was carried out, and the return of land to the previous owners began. However, economic reform was late. In the 2nd half. 1990s after the banking system crisis it was restructured. In 1997-99, the privatization process accelerated and is nearing completion. In 2000-02, problems of economic growth came to the fore, administrative reform began, and attention to the fight against corruption increased. In October 2002, the European Commission recognized Bulgaria as a functioning market economy, noting a number of serious shortcomings that would require great efforts to eliminate. Difficult modernization and increasing the competitiveness of the economy lie ahead.

In foreign policy, a course was taken towards a “return” to Europe. Bulgaria's main priority is integration into European and Euro-Atlantic structures. In 1995, Bulgaria became an associated member of the EU, and in December 1999 it was accepted as a candidate member of the EU. In December 2002, at a meeting of EU leaders in Copenhagen, it was announced that Bulgaria, subject to further fulfillment of membership criteria, could become a member of the EU in 2007.

In November 2002, Bulgaria received an invitation to join NATO (2004). Bulgaria pays great attention to Balkan regional cooperation within the framework of the project “Stability Pact in South-Eastern Europe”.

The Republic of Bulgaria has diplomatic relations with the Russian Federation (established with the USSR in July 1934). In 2002-03, there was a revival and prospects for deepening friendly relations and partnership between the Russian Federation and Bulgaria, and expanding trade and economic cooperation between them.

Economy of Bulgaria

In the 1990s. During the process of social transformation, a deep economic decline occurred. The reasons for this are related to the inherited energy- and import-intensive production, the loss of traditional sales markets, and the difficulties of reorienting foreign trade relations to Western markets, where Bulgarian goods turned out to be insufficiently competitive. Limited domestic demand and increased competition from imported goods also negatively affected the capabilities of local producers. There were also miscalculations in management decisions that provide methods, rules and conditions for economic transformations. Despite economic growth in 1998-2002, GDP remains below the pre-reform level. GDP in 2001 was $13.6 billion, per capita - $1,718. Calculated on the basis of purchasing power parity, per capita GDP was 24% of the average for EU countries.

In the 1990s. the number of people employed in the economy decreased by almost 1/4. The economically active population in 2002 was 3248 thousand people. (48.4% of the total population over 15 years of age), of which 2,704 thousand are employed, 544 thousand are unemployed. (16.8% of the workforce). Unemployment has become chronic. In 1991, “shock therapy” was carried out in Bulgaria, consumer prices increased by 5.7 times. The second strong surge in inflation occurred during the crisis of the financial and banking system in the end. 1996 - beginning 1997. During 1996-2002, average annual consumer prices increased 39 times.

In the 1990s. Under the influence of demand in the domestic and foreign markets, as well as investment opportunities, noticeable shifts occurred in the sectoral structure of the economy. Employment in the service sector grew at the highest rate - 46.5% of employees (2002). Industrial sector - 27.9%, agriculture - 25.6%. The bulk of the employed (approx. 3/4) is concentrated in the private sector. In 2002, the service sector accounted for 52.7% of GDP, industry - 24.5%, and agriculture - 11.0%.

Industry of Bulgaria in the 1990s. was experiencing a deep structural crisis. In 2000-02 there were signs of growth. The volume of industrial production in 2002 increased by 0.6% (however, it was 20% lower than in 1995), incl. in extractive industries - by 24%, in manufacturing - by 23%. Production capacity utilization is approximately 60% (end 2002).

OK. 80% of production is produced in the manufacturing industry, approx. 5% - in mining and 15% - in enterprises producing and supplying electricity and heat, gas, and water.

The largest share (approx. 18% in 2001) belongs to the production of food, beverages and tobacco products, which have traditionally been developed in Bulgaria. An important place belongs to metallurgy and the production of metal products (over 10% of gross output). Non-ferrous metallurgy, using local raw materials, is developing relatively successfully. Petroleum products, soda ash, and mineral fertilizers are produced. The share of mechanical engineering is approx. 10%. In 2002, the production of radio and television equipment and communications equipment, electronic computing and office equipment increased.

Bulgaria has favorable natural and climatic conditions for the development of agriculture. In the 1990s. An agrarian reform was carried out, during which the land was returned to the previous owners and their heirs, which led to the emergence of significant small and fragmented private land ownership. This created serious problems for effective land use and management. The deterioration of the material and technical supply of agriculture, a reduction in investment, and the loss of traditional foreign markets for agricultural products limited the realization of the potential opportunities of the industry. The dynamics of its production were unstable, and volume in 2002 was 12% lower than in 1990. Almost all production is produced in the private sector. Crop production and livestock production make an almost equal contribution to production (approximately 47% each), approx. 6% of agricultural products are production services.

The development of agriculture has been identified as one of the priority areas of the economy. The government intends to bring agricultural policy into line with the EU common agricultural policy, create conditions for the consolidation of plots and more efficient use of land, and promote the development of the market and market infrastructure.

Bulgaria's transport infrastructure is developing as an integral part of the pan-European transport network to become a transport bridge between Western and Central Europe and the countries of the Middle East, Western and Central Asia. The length of railway tracks is 6.4 thousand km, incl. 4.3 thousand km in operation, of which 2/3 are electrified. The total length of the national road network is 37.3 thousand km. Maritime transport has 86 cargo ships that serve the bulk of foreign trade turnover. Seaports - Varna and Burgas. Bulgaria has four international airports. In 2002, 111.8 million tons of cargo were transported, incl. 16.5% by rail, 51.7% by road, 14% by sea and 16% by pipeline transport. In serving the population, a decisive role belongs to motor transport, which carries 2/3 of all passengers.

Favorable natural and climatic conditions create the prerequisites for tourism, the development of which is recognized as one of the priorities. In 1999-2002, the number of foreign tourists visiting Bulgaria increased from 2.0 million to 2.99 million people. Tourism activities are mainly carried out by private businesses, which own 96% of the property in this area. The largest number of tourists comes from Macedonia, Serbia and Montenegro, Greece, Great Britain and Germany. The introduction of a visa regime with Russia by Bulgaria (October 1, 2001) was accompanied by a decrease in the number of Russian tourists. In 2002 there were 24% fewer of them than in 2001.

The main directions of modern socio-economic policy are a focus on increasing the income of the population, reducing poverty and unemployment. The basis for this should be sustainable economic growth while strengthening macroeconomic stability. A course has been taken to accelerate structural reform, complete privatization and create a fully functioning competitive market economy.

In 2001-02, the macroeconomic situation in the country was relatively stable. GDP growth in 2001 was 4.1%, in 2002 - 4.8%. The inflation rate is 4.8 and 3.8%, respectively. The stabilization of the macroeconomy was to a certain extent facilitated by the mechanism of the Monetary Council (in force since 1997), which is expected to be maintained until accession to the EU. A fixed exchange rate of the leva is established, pegged to the euro; the issue of central bank money is determined by the increase in its foreign exchange reserves. Their size increased from 3.5 billion in 2000 to 3.58 billion in 2001 and 4.75 billion dollars in the end. 2002. The functions of the central bank in refinancing commercial banks have practically ceased; it can provide them with a loan only if the stability of the banking system is threatened. It has no authority to lend to the government other than to provide SDR loans. Most commercial banks have been privatized. As a rule, foreign investors became the owners of privatized banks. In 2002, there were signs of more active lending to the real sector of the economy. In connection with the conditions of the IMF and the desire to ensure EU standards, the focus on reducing the budget deficit, which in the 1990s. was chronic and was covered mainly by external and internal borrowings. In 2001-02, the consolidated state budget deficit decreased (from 1.1% of GDP in 2000 to 0.9 in 2001 and 0.7% in 2002), and the main source of covering it was revenues from privatization. Changes in tax policy are aimed at strengthening budget balance. Its concept is based on the need to distribute the tax burden evenly, stimulate business, reduce direct taxes and expand the tax base. An important problem remains balancing current external payments and servicing accumulated external debt. In con. 2002 gross external debt amounted to $10.93 billion (70.5% of GDP), incl. long-term liabilities accounted for 85.7% of the debt, and short-term liabilities accounted for 14.3%; $1.29 billion, or 8.3% of GDP, was spent on servicing external debt.

During the reform of the economy, property was redistributed, real social transfers from the state were reduced, the previous model of stratification collapsed, a significant part of the population became impoverished, and property differentiation increased. In 2000, real income per family member was 1/5 lower than in 1995. Real wages also remained lower than in 1995.

The development of foreign economic relations is one of the decisive factors in the dynamism of the Bulgarian economy. The volume of foreign trade turnover (2001) reaches 90% of GDP. Imports provide approx. 2/3 internal energy consumption.

In 2002, Bulgaria's foreign trade turnover amounted to $13.38 billion, incl. exports - 5.58 billion, and imports - 7.8 billion dollars. This year, exports for the first time exceeded the level of 1995. One of the most acute problems of the Bulgarian economy is the chronic deficit of foreign trade. Orientation to the West and the loss of the traditional market of the former USSR determined the geographical structure of foreign trade. The predominant part (65.6%) of its turnover in 2002 accounted for OECD countries, incl. 52.6% - on the EU. They sold 72.6 and 55.8% of exports, respectively, and their share in imports was 60.6 and 50.3%. The Russian Federation accounted for only 1.6% of all Bulgarian exports and 14.7% of imports (supply mainly of energy resources).

Science and culture of Bulgaria

Liberation from the Ottoman yoke opened up opportunities for the development of public education, science, and national culture. In the beginning. 20th century Scientific research centers such as the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences (BAN, 1911) and Sofia University (1904) were established. Large state libraries have been established in Sofia and Plovdiv. In 1961, the Academy of Agricultural Sciences was founded, later renamed the Agricultural Academy (ASA). In 1972, the Medical Academy was created.

In con. 20th century 447 organizations were engaged in research activities in Bulgaria. About half of them (46.4%) are scientific units of the BAN, SSA and ministries financed from the state budget. The main direction of their activity is fundamental research. Universities and scientific units at universities are focused on scientific and applied developments, and industry institutes provide the predominant part of experimental developments. In the beginning. In 2002, there were 22.3 thousand scientific workers in the country. Problems and difficulties of socio-economic development have negatively affected the financial support of scientific research. If in 1989 2.4% of GDP was allocated to science (and each percentage was equal to $217.8 million), then in 2000 0.52% of GDP was spent (the percentage was equal to $126 million). The average salary in science is lower than the national average. In Bulgaria there is a relatively high share (2/3 in 2001) of state participation in spending on science, while industry covers no more than 30%.

In recent years, the importance of external funding through participation in international scientific programs has increased. In 2000, this provided 5.3% of total funds for science (in 1996 - 0.25%). In the 20th century The level of education of the population continuously increased. Since 1966, compulsory basic (8 years) education for children aged 7 to 16 years has been introduced. Secondary education is provided by training in secondary schools or in vocational schools, technical schools, and vocational gymnasiums. Specialists with higher education are trained in colleges, universities and specialized institutes. There is a process of harmonization of the regulatory framework of education and science with that in force in the EU.

In 2000, the total number of functions in the education system was St. 3.5 thousand educational institutions and studied approx. 1.3 million students. 48 colleges and 42 universities and specialized institutes trained specialists with higher education. Since 1992, private educational institutions have appeared. More than 1/10 of all students now study in private universities. In Bulgaria, the level of education of the population is relatively high. Among persons over 15 years of age, the following had higher education: bachelor, master - 9.8%; specialist - 2.3%; secondary vocational - 18%, secondary general - 26.6%, basic and lower - 43.3% (1998).

Despite the centuries-old foreign yoke, the Bulgarian people have preserved their identity and culture. In con. 19 - beginning 20th century such cultural centers as the National Library, the Ivan Vazov People's Theater, and the Bulgarian Opera House arose. Folk reading clubs (chitalishta), which arose during Ottoman rule, became distinctive centers of culture.

Currently there are 80 theaters operating in Bulgaria, approx. 200 cinemas, St. 7 thousand libraries, approx. 3 thousand reading rooms. Publishing activity is developing quite dynamically, although with fluctuations. In 2000, more books and newspapers were published (by title) than in 1989, but with a smaller circulation.

Bulgaria has contributed to the treasury of world culture, literature and art. The works and mastery of many Bulgarian writers and poets (A. Konstantinov, E. Pelin, H. Smirnensky, El. Bagryany), artists (An. Mitova, Iv. Myrkvichki, V. Dimitrov-Maistora, D. Uzunov), composers (Em Manolova, P. Vladigerova, etc.) gained worldwide fame and recognition.

Bulgaria is a beautiful country famous for its tourist resorts, outstanding attractions and centuries-old history.

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

Capital of Bulgaria on the map

During its existence, the city 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”.

The other one is interesting sight Sofia - mosque Bathhouse Bashi. The construction of this mosque, one of the oldest in Europe, was completed in the 16th century. Now its appearance reminds us that the history of the city was not without the 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, the name of which contains the word “bath” - with Sofia Central Mineral Bath. Behind this building, the main decoration of which is the 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 proudly the brave guards march in 11 o'clock in the morning.

Do you know what it was called first capital Bulgaria?

Ancient capitals of Bulgaria

Pliska

First capital Bulgaria Pliska (681-893), was located a few kilometers from the modern city of 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 only ruins remain of this beautiful city. But on the site of the ancient city it is 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 remarkable places in all of Europe.

Skopje and Ohrid

The next capitals of Bulgaria were Skopje (972-992) and Ohrid (992-1018), these cities are now located 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 landmark of the city is the ancient Tsarevets fortress, standing on three hills. At the height of the tourist season, the city is visited by a huge number of history buffs. The city leaves unforgettable emotions, which is obviously why it is so loved by Bulgarians. You can read more about this unique city

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 attractions of Vidin, the well-preserved medieval feudal fortress stands out Baba Vida Castle.

Nikopol

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