GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT BULGARIA
Bulgaria is a country located in Southeastern Europe on the Balkan Peninsula. It combines ancient civilizations, rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and living traditions preserved for centuries. With a history spanning over 1,300 years, Bulgaria is one of Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited lands and the oldest country in Europe that has never changed its name since its foundation in 681 AD. Today, Bulgaria is a member of the European Union, NATO, the Council of Europe, and part of numerous international cultural and scientific organizations. The official currency from 01.01.2026 is the Euro (EUR).The capital is Sofia - one of Europe’s oldest cities. Especially famous is the Valley of Roses - the region between the towns of Kazanlak and Karlovo, the center of the world-renowned rose-oil industry. Unique Bulgarian roses (Rosa Damascena) are cultivated here and serve as a key raw material for the perfume industry. Every year, Kazanlak hosts the Rose Festival, featuring traditional dances, folk costumes, and the ceremonial gathering of rose petals.
Bulgaria covers 110,993 km² and features remarkable geographical diversity. Major geographical regions:
The Danube Plain - fertile lands and river landscapes The Balkan Mountains (Stara Planina) - central mountain chain dividing the country The Thracian Lowland - plains, vineyards and historical sites Rose Valley: Lush fields of Rosa Damascena between Kazanlak and Karlovo, famous worldwide for rose oil production The Rhodope Mountains - mystical, ancient, homeland of Orpheus The Rila and Pirin Mountains - alpine peaks, glacial lakes, home to UNESCO-protected nature The Black Sea coast - over 350 km coastline with sandy beaches, resorts and ancient towns Highest peak: Musala (2,925 m) - the highest point in the entire Balkan Peninsula Rivers and lakes:Bulgaria includes the Danube, Iskar, Maritsa, and Struma rivers, among others, as well as hundreds of glacial lakes, the most famous of which are the Seven Rila Lakes.
