- 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.
Bulgaria's highest legislative body. 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. The highest point is 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.
The official name is the Republic of Bulgaria (Republic of Bulgaria, Republic of Bulgaria). Located in Southeast Europe. The area is 111 thousand km2. Population - 7.9 million people. (2002). The official language is Bulgarian. The capital is the city of Sofia (1.19 million people, 2002). Public Holiday. Day of liberation from the Ottoman yoke March 3 - Monetary unit - lion.
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, in the west - on Macedonia and Serbia, 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 mountain ranges and approximately 70% by flat and hilly lands. In the middle part of the country from west to east stretches Stara Planina (Balkan Mountains) with the highest peak named after. Hristo Boteva (2376 m). Mountain ranges rise in the south and south-west of the country: Rila (the highest peak in the Balkans, Musala - 2925 m), Pirin (Vihren - 2914 m), Rhodopes.
Bulgaria has relatively many rivers, 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 Danubian hilly plain. In southern Bulgaria lies the fertile Thracian plain. The capital Sofia is located in the Great Sophia Basin. The Black Sea coast of Bulgaria is predominantly low with an extensive beach strip.
The features of the relief and climate in different regions determined the diversity of soil cover and vegetation. On the Danube Plain, soils are predominantly chernozem and gray forest podzolized; south of Stara Planina, brown and dense chernozems predominate; mountainous regions 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 is deciduous (beech, oak, hornbeam, etc.) and 1/3 is coniferous (spruce, pine, fir). ).
Of the minerals, lead-zinc, copper and iron ores, brown and hard coal, table salt, kaolin, gypsum, marble, etc. are of the greatest importance. Bulgaria is rich in sources (about 500) of mineral waters with high healing properties.
The climate of the predominant part of Bulgaria is temperate 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. The average annual rainfall 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 (respectively from 8.2 to 8.9 million people), which in the 1990s. changed to the opposite. To the beginning In 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 Gypsies (4.6%). According to the data of the 2001 census, for 84.5% of the population the native language is Bulgarian, for 9.6% - Turkish, for 4% - Roma. The ratio of births and deaths 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 growth became negative: -5.5‰ (2001). Average life expectancy (1998-2000) - 71.7 years, incl. men - 68.2, women - 75.3 years.
The population is aging. In the age structure, the proportion of young people (under 20 years old) decreased from 51.1% in 1900 to 21.8% in 2001, while the proportion of the elderly (60 years and older) increased from 8.4 to 22.5%. excess of the female population, to the beginning. 2002 men 48.7% of the population, women - 51.3%, 1053 women accounted for 1000 men. In the course of urbanization, the urban population rapidly increased, which accounted for 46.5% in 1965, and 69.3% by 2002. Bulgaria is gradually raising the retirement age. In 2003, subject to certain conditions, it was 57 years for women and 62 years for men. Educational level of the population: St. 52% over the age of 7 have higher and secondary education (2001).
The dominant religion is Orthodoxy, which is followed by approx. 82.6% of the population, 12.2% Muslim, 0.6% Catholic, 0.5% Protestant, 3.6% not self-determined (2001).
History of Bulgaria
The earliest settlements on the territory of present-day Bulgaria date back to the Paleolithic era. The oldest known population is the Thracian tribes. By the 1st century AD Thracian lands fell 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 massively settle on the Balkan Peninsula. In the 7th century Proto-Bulgarians of Turkic origin invaded the northeastern part of present-day Bulgaria under the leadership of Khan Asparuh. In alliance with the Slavs, their struggle against Byzantium was crowned with success. In 681, Byzantium recognized the formation of the Bulgarian state, headed by Khan Asparuh, and Pliska was chosen as the capital.
At 8 and early. 9th century the territory of the state was significantly expanded. In 864, Christianity was adopted as the official religion. In the 2nd floor. 9th c. brothers Cyril (Konstantin the Philosopher) and Methodius, the 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 pushed 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. Introduced Slavic writing. Bulgarian became the official state, church and literary language. Under the heirs of Simeon, however, internal strife arose, which weakened the country. After long wars with Byzantium, Bulgaria in 1018 again fell under its rule.
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). Its capital was Tarnovo. However, internal strife led to Ser. 14th c. 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 the character of a revolutionary one. Raising the level of organization of the national liberation struggle and substantiating the revolutionary path is closely connected with the name of the writer and publicist, figure of education G. Rakovsky (1821-67). Among the prominent figures of the national liberation movement, its ideologists, strategists and organizers were also national heroes V. Levskiy, L. Karavelov, H. 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 of 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 Tsar 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, the contradictions between the former allies over 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 among themselves. Bulgaria was left with the Pirin region and Western Thrace, which gave access to the Aegean Sea.
Participation in World War I on the side of Germany had grave consequences for the country. According to the Treaty of Neuilly (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 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 the political forces that fought against fascism and rallied around the Fatherland Front (OF). On September 9, 1944, the government of the PF was formed, headed by K. Georgiev. In 1946, a referendum was held on the form of government, following which Bulgaria was proclaimed a People's Republic (September 15, 1946). After that, Tsar Simeon, the Queen Mother and Princess Marie-Louise left the country.
On November 22, 1946, a new government of the PF 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, 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 towards building socialism, a party-state political system took shape, 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 engineering, oriented to export to the countries of the Council for Mutual Economic Assistance, primarily in the USSR.
Since November 1989, the countdown of democratic transformations, the systemic transformation of society in Bulgaria, begins. In June 1990, elections were held for the Great People's Assembly, which adopted a new Constitution that came into force in July 1991.
State structure and political system of Bulgaria
According to the Constitution (1991), Bulgaria is a republic with parliamentary government, a single state with local self-government. Autonomous territorial formations 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, must be based on free economic initiative. The right of ownership and inheritance is guaranteed and protected by law. The property is private and public. Private property is inviolable.
In administrative terms, Bulgaria is divided into 28 regions, incl. the capital Sofia (with the rights of the region). The largest cities: Plovdiv, Varna, Burgas, Ruse.
The highest body of legislative power 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 the age of 18, and any citizen of the country who does not have another citizenship and has reached the age of 21 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 constituents, but the whole people. Parliament elects a chairman, temporary and permanent commissions. Chairman of the National Assembly (2002) - Ognyan Gerdzhikov. Elections to the current People's Assembly of the 39th convocation were held on June 17, 2001. It consists of: 120 representatives of the National Movement "Simeon II" (NDV); 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 body of executive power is the Council of Ministers (Government), which is headed by the Prime Minister. The government is elected by the parliament on the proposal of the prime minister, who is instructed in the prescribed manner to form the government by the president. Under the leadership of the government, the domestic and foreign policy of the state is 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 activity of the government is directly controlled by the parliament.
The Prime Minister directs and is responsible for the general policy of the cabinet. 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, the representative of the largest parliamentary group of the NDSV, as prime minister.
Simeon of Sakskoburggotsky (born in 1937) is the son of the Bulgarian Tsar Boris III. In 1946, after a referendum declaring Bulgaria a republic, he left the country. From 1951 he lived in Spain. Studied law and political sciences.
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 directly elected for a term of 5 years and no more than two mandates. More than half of the voters must participate in the voting. A 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 Board. 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 to local self-government bodies. It determines the date of the national referendum when the People's Assembly decides to hold it.
After consulting 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, 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 November 2001 presidential election, Georgi Parvanov, the former leader of the Bulgarian Socialist Party, was elected president.
The main administrative-territorial unit is a community with a self-governing body, a community council. It adopts annual budgets and community development plans. The functions of 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. Thus, regional state policy is carried out and a combination of national and local interests is ensured.
The Bulgarian constitution guarantees the freedom to form political parties. At the same time, none of them can be declared or approved as a state one. 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 allowed. 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, a charter and a list of at least 500 founding members. The multi-party system is in the process of becoming. 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 the political space, where the two largest formations fought: the Bulgarian Socialist Party (BSP) (the successor to the Bulgarian Communist Party) and the Union of Democratic Forces (SDS). The BSP, being the most numerous and organized force on the left side of the political spectrum, was not homogeneous, which affected the pace of the formation of a new image of the party. Until 1997, the SDS, as the core of the organized opposition to the left flank, was a coalition of parties, movements and associations that differed in ideological and political views, from conservative to center-right. In the parliamentary elections (April 1997), the SDS already acted as a political party.
In the elections of June 17, 2001, more than three dozen parties and coalitions applied for deputy mandates. As a result, the following most influential political forces ended up in parliament. The victorious NDSV, created shortly before the elections. In 2002, it was transformed into a party, in the program declaration of which it was noted that it would be both conservative and liberal, and would have a social orientation. The defeated former ruling centre-right party SDF 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 the lowest result in the 1990s. The Movement for Rights and Freedoms (DPS), whose electorate is represented mainly by the national minority - ethnic Turks.
Trade unions at the sectoral 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 Podkrepa Labor Confederation play an important role in building social partnership. Among the leading organizations of business circles 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, and twice ahead of schedule. During the same time (until July 2001) 7 governments were replaced (including two service ones). Only the government headed by the former SDF leader I. Kostov (1997-2001) used its mandate in full. As a rule, the change of cabinets took place on a wave of dissatisfaction with the results of socio-economic policy, due to insufficient consideration of the social tolerance of radical measures, the involvement of managers in corruption.
In the beginning. 1990s in the conditions of broad liberalization of economic life, the main emphasis was placed 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. The restitution of alienated property was carried out, the return of land to the former owners began. However, the reform of the economy was late. In the 2nd floor. 1990s after the crisis of the banking system, it was restructured. In 1997-99, the privatization process accelerated and is nearing completion. In 2000-02, problems of economic growth come to the fore, administrative reform begins, and attention to the fight against corruption increases. In October 2002, the European Commission recognized Bulgaria as a country with a functioning market economy, noting a number of serious shortcomings, which will require great efforts to eliminate. A difficult modernization and increase in the competitiveness of the economy lies ahead.
In foreign policy, a course was taken for a "return" to Europe. Bulgaria's main priority is integration into European and Euro-Atlantic structures. In 1995 Bulgaria became an associate member of the EU, in December 1999 it was accepted as a candidate for EU membership. In December 2002, at a meeting of EU leaders in Copenhagen, it was announced that Bulgaria, subject to further fulfillment of the 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 the Balkan regional cooperation within the framework of the Stability Pact in South-Eastern Europe project.
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 in the process of social transformation there was a deep economic recession. The reasons for this are related to the inherited energy and import-intensive production, the loss of traditional sales markets, the difficulties of reorienting foreign trade relations to Western markets, where Bulgarian goods were not competitive enough. The limited domestic demand and increased competition for imported goods also had a negative impact on the capabilities of local producers. There were also miscalculations in management decisions that provide methods, rules and conditions for economic transformations. Despite the growth of the economy in 1998-2002, the volume of GDP remains below the pre-reform level. GDP in 2001 was 13.6 billion dollars, per capita - 1718 dollars. Calculated on the basis of purchasing power parity, per capita GDP amounted to 24% of the average for EU countries.
In the 1990s the number of people employed in the economy decreased by almost 1/4. Economically active population in 2002 - 3248 thousand people. (48.4% of the total population over 15 years old), 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 5.7 times. The second strong burst of inflation occurred during the crisis of the financial and banking system in con. 1996 - early 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, there have been noticeable shifts in the sectoral structure of the economy. The fastest growing employment was in the service sector - 46.5% of the employed (2002). The industrial sector - 27.9%, agriculture - 25.6%. The main part 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%, agriculture - 11.0%.
Industry in Bulgaria in the 1990s experienced 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%. Capacity utilization - approximately 60% (late 2002).
OK. 80% of products are produced in the manufacturing industry, approx. 5% - in mining and 15% - in enterprises for the production and supply of electricity and heat, gas, water.
The largest share (ca. 18% in 2001) belongs to the production of food, beverages and tobacco products, which was traditionally developed in Bulgaria. An important place belongs to metallurgy and the production of metal products (more than 10% of gross output). Non-ferrous metallurgy, using local raw materials, is developing relatively successfully. Petroleum products, soda ash, mineral fertilizers are produced. The share of mechanical engineering - approx. ten%. In 2002, the production of radio-television equipment and means of communication, electronic computers 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 former owners and their heirs, which led to the emergence of significant small and fragmented private ownership of land. This created serious problems for efficient land use and management. The deterioration of the material and technical security of agriculture, the reduction in investment, the loss of traditional foreign markets for agricultural products limited the realization of the potential of the industry. The dynamics of its production was unstable, and the volume in 2002 was 12% lower than in 1990. Almost all production is produced in the private sector. Crop and livestock production contribute almost equally to production (approximately 47% each), approx. 6% of agricultural products are production services.
The development of agriculture is defined as one of the priority areas of the economy. The government intends to bring agricultural policy in line with the EU common agricultural policy, create conditions for the consolidation of plots and more efficient use of land, 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 operated, 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, which serve the bulk of the 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. In serving the population, a decisive role belongs to motor transport, which carries 2/3 of all passengers.
Favorable natural and climatic conditions create 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. Tourist activity is carried out mainly by private business, which owns 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% less than in 2001.
The main directions of modern socio-economic policy are the 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 - 4.1%, in 2002 - 4.8%. The inflation rate is 4.8 and 3.8%, respectively. The stabilization of the macroeconomics to a certain extent was facilitated by the mechanism of the currency board (in force since 1997), which is supposed to be maintained until joining the EU. A fixed exchange rate of the lev, pegged to the euro, has been established, the issue of central bank money is due to 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 con. 2002. The functions of the central bank to refinance commercial banks were practically terminated; it can provide them with a loan only if the stability of the banking system is threatened. It does not have the authority to lend to the state, except for lending on SDRs. 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 norms, the focus on reducing the budget deficit became tougher, which in the 1990s. was chronic and covered mainly by external and internal borrowing. In 2001-02, the deficit of the consolidated state budget decreased (from 1.1% of GDP in 2000 to 0.9% in 2001 and 0.7% in 2002), and privatization revenues became the main source of its coverage. Changes in tax policy are aimed at strengthening the balance of the budget. Its concept is based on the need to evenly distribute the tax burden, stimulate business, reduce direct taxes and expand the tax base. Balancing current external payments and servicing the accumulated external debt remains an important problem. In con. 2002 external debt-gross amounted to 10.93 billion dollars (70.5% of GDP), incl. long-term debt accounted for 85.7% of the debt, and short-term - 14.3%; $1.29 billion, or 8.3% of GDP, was spent on servicing external debt.
In the course of reforming 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 intensified. In 2000, real incomes per family member were 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. Import provides approx. 2/3 internal power consumption.
In 2002, Bulgaria's foreign trade turnover amounted to 13.38 billion dollars, 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 a chronic deficit in 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 was in the OECD countries, incl. 52.6% - to 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 (supplying mainly energy resources).
Science and culture of Bulgaria
The liberation from the Ottoman yoke opened up opportunities for the development of public education, science, and national culture. In the beginning. 20th century such centers of scientific research as the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences (BAN, 1911) and Sofia University (1904) were formed. 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). The Medical Academy was established in 1972.
In con. 20th century 447 organizations were engaged in research activities in Bulgaria. About half of them (46.4%) are state budget-funded scientific departments of the BAN, SSA and ministries. The main direction of their activity is fundamental research. Universities and scientific units at higher education institutions are oriented towards scientific and applied developments, and branch institutes provide the predominant part of experimental developments. In the beginning. 2002 there were 22.3 thousand scientists in the country. The problems and difficulties of socio-economic development had a negative impact on the financial support of scientific research. If in 1989 2.4% of GDP was allocated for science (and each percentage was equal to 217.8 million dollars), then in 2000 0.52% of GDP was spent (the percentage is 126 million dollars). The average salary in science is lower than the national average. Bulgaria has a relatively high share (2/3 in 2001) of state participation in science spending, 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 the total funds for science (in 1996 - 0.25%). In the 20th century the level of education of the population was continuously raised. Since 1966, compulsory basic (8 years) education has been introduced for children between the ages of 7 and 16. Secondary education provides instruction in general education 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 for education and science with the current one in the EU.
In 2000, in total, St. 3.5 thousand educational institutions and studied approx. 1.3 million students. Specialists with higher education were trained by 48 colleges and 42 universities and specialized institutes. Since 1992, private educational institutions have appeared. More than 1/10 of all students are currently studying in private universities. In Bulgaria, the level of education of the population is relatively high. Among those over 15 years of age, higher education had: bachelor's degree, master's degree - 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 retained their identity and culture. In con. 19 - beg. 20th century cultural centers such as the National Library, the Ivan Vazov People's Theater, and the Bulgarian Opera House arose. Folk clubs-reading rooms (chitalishta), which arose during the Ottoman rule, became original centers of culture.
There are currently 80 theaters in Bulgaria, approx. 200 cinemas, St. 7 thousand libraries, approx. 3 thousand reading places. Quite dynamically, although with differences, publishing activity is developing. In 2000, more books and newspapers (by titles) were published than in 1989, but in a smaller circulation.
Bulgaria has contributed to the treasury of world culture, literature and art. The works and skill of many Bulgarian writers and poets (A. Konstantinov, E. Pelin, H. Smirnensky, El. Bagryana), artists (An. Mitov, Iv. Myrkvichka, V. Dimitrov-Maistor, D. Uzunov), composers (Iem Manolova, P. Vladigerova and others) have gained worldwide fame and recognition.
Useful data for tourists about Bulgaria, cities and resorts of the country. As well as information about the population, the currency of Bulgaria, the cuisine, the features of visa and customs restrictions in Bulgaria.
Geography of Bulgaria
A state in Southeastern Europe, in the eastern part of the Balkan Peninsula. Washed by the Black Sea. It borders with Greece, Turkey, Serbia, Macedonia and Romania. Most of the country - the mountain ranges of Stara Planina, Sredna Gora, Rila with Mount Musala (the highest point of the Balkan Peninsula, 2925 m), Pirin, Rhodopes. In the north of Bulgaria there is the Lower Danube plain, in the center - the Kazanlak basin, to the south - the vast Upper Thracian lowland. Forests occupy about a third of the territory, mostly deciduous.
,State
State structure
Parliamentary republic. The head of state is the president. Directly elected for a term of five years.
Language
Official language: Bulgarian
Mostly they speak Russian well. Available in English, German and French.
Religion
More than 85% of the country's inhabitants are Orthodox Christians, 12% of the population are Sunni Muslims. Jews make up 0.8%, Catholics - 0.5%, Protestants - 0.5%.
Currency
International name: BGN
One lev consists of 100 stotinki. In circulation there are coins of 1, 2, 5 and 10 leva, as well as banknotes of 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1000, 2000, 5000, 10000 leva.
History of Bulgaria
The mild climate and rich nature of Bulgaria have long attracted immigrants. More than 500 thousand years ago, the first people appeared here, and in the 4th millennium BC, settlements of the ancient Aryans arose. One of their tribes, the Thracians, finally settled on the territory of modern Bulgaria and in the 5th century BC managed to create their own state, which became the birthplace of the legendary leader of the gladiators - Spartacus.
The most powerful powers of the ancient world spared no effort to conquer the small kingdom. This land had to endure the invasion of Greek colonists, Scythians, Persians and Macedonians. In the 1st century AD, the Romans managed to conquer the Thracians and establish dominance over them for 400 years. From the end of the 4th century, in the era of the Great Migration of Peoples, the raids of neighboring tribes resumed, which contributed to a change in the ethnic composition. In the 7th century, the Slavs who came from across the Danube assimilated the local population and, from the second half of the 7th century, entered into an alliance with a small group of Proto-Bulgarians (part of the Turkic-speaking people ousted by the Khazars from the lower reaches of the Kuban). So in 680 the First Bulgarian Kingdom was formed. At the turn of the 9th-10th centuries, it reached its highest power, completely owning almost the entire Balkan Peninsula. But already in the middle of the 10th century, the Bulgarian-Slavic state entered a period of severe crisis and at the beginning of the 11th century lost its independence, submitting to Byzantium. A successful uprising against the enslavers, raised by the brothers Peter and Asen, returned independence to the country. The Second Bulgarian Kingdom was formed.
The invasion of the Mongol-Tatars, the exhausting competition for hegemony in the Balkans with Serbia and Byzantium, internal turmoil led to the collapse of the kingdom and its conquest by the Turks at the end of the 14th century. The darkest period of Bulgarian history came - the Muslim yoke, which lasted for almost 500 years. It was destroyed after the defeat of Turkey in the war with Russia (1877-1878) due to the joint actions of the rebels and the Russian army. In 1908, an independent Third Bulgarian Kingdom arose. However, Germany tried to tear him away from Russia and dragged him into the First World War on its side. Despite the defeat in the war, the ruling circles of the state retained their orientation towards Germany and entered into an alliance with Hitler. A new defeat in World War II made it possible to establish a republic in the country, Bulgaria fell into the sphere of influence of the USSR, and all power passed to the communists. With the collapse of the USSR in the early 1990s, this long-suffering land began building a democratic society.
The mild climate and rich nature of Bulgaria have long attracted immigrants. More than 500 thousand years ago, the first people appeared here, and in the 4th millennium BC, settlements of the ancient Aryans arose. One of their tribes, the Thracians, finally settled on the territory of modern Bulgaria and in the 5th century BC managed to create their own state, which became the birthplace of the legendary leader of the gladiators - Spartacus ....
Popular Attractions
Tourism in Bulgaria
Where to stay
Tourist resorts in Bulgaria are characterized by a special climate, a developed hotel base, excursions and entertainment. Hotels in Bulgaria are among the most inexpensive in Europe. All local hotels correspond to the standard European classification: from one to five stars. Most hotels in Bulgaria are three and four star, which makes the country accessible for recreation for people with any financial capabilities.
Certification of hotels in the country is mandatory. Thanks to this, the quality of service always corresponds to the declared stars. Stars are assigned not only to hotels, but also to campsites, motels, and rental apartments, depending on the level of services provided. Each of the accommodation options in Bulgaria has its own star threshold, namely: private hotels, motels and rental apartments cannot have more than three stars. In turn, campsites and rural houses are rated from one to two stars.
One-star hotels in Bulgaria have minimal amenities. Mandatory conditions for a hotel of this class are: the availability of parking, telephones, safes and a postal service. Unlike one-star hotels, the traditional requirements for two-star hotels are added with the obligatory presence of a mini-bar and TV in the room, as well as laundry and dry cleaning services. Three-star hotels in Bulgaria have a playground, a conference room, as well as the possibility of renting a car and a guide service. In addition to the services available in lower-class hotels, a four-star hotel must have a fitness center, swimming pool and parking. Also an unspoken standard are room service, five meals a day and the availability of Internet in the room. A five-star hotel, according to Bulgarian standards, is a hotel complex that includes conference rooms, shops, restaurants, bars, a gym, a spa center, a beauty salon and 24-hour room service.
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Popular hotels
Tours and attractions in Bulgaria
Bulgaria is one of the most attractive tourist countries in the eastern part of the Balkan Peninsula. The sun and the azure sea, magnificent beaches and mineral springs, mountains and beautiful ski slopes, important historical monuments and traditional Bulgarian cuisine will make your vacation varied and unforgettable. Natural attractions and rich cultural and historical heritage introduce the history and national traditions of this colorful country.
The capital of Bulgaria Sofia is one of the oldest European cities. Since ancient times, it has been known for its mineral and thermal springs. One of the most impressive sights not only in the capital, but throughout the country is the Cathedral of St. Alexander Nevsky, located on the eponymous Sofia Square. A beautiful architectural structure made of granite and white stone was erected in honor of the liberation of Bulgaria. Among the most interesting places in the city, it is worth highlighting the Hagia Sophia, the Church of St. Nicholas, the rotunda of St. George, the Cathedral of the Light of the Week (Holy Resurrection), the Banya Bashi Mosque, the Buyuk Mosque (Archaeological Museum), the Dragalev Monastery, the National Historical Museum and the National Art Gallery of Bulgaria.
Plovdiv is the second largest city in Bulgaria and one of the most beautiful cities in the Balkans. Its history goes back about three thousand years. The ruins of various ancient buildings have survived here to this day: an amphitheater, a Roman market, a stadium, a basilica, and baths. The old part of the city is surrounded by the remains of a stone Thracian fortress. The mosques "Imaret" and "Jumaya" have been preserved since the Ottoman domination. Also, the sights of Plovdiv include the Church of St. Marina, the Church of St. Constantine and Helena, the Church of St. Dimitar, as well as the Archaeological and Ethnographic Museums.
The city of Varna (and surrounding areas), located on the Black Sea coast, is not only a popular Bulgarian resort, but also an important cultural center. Here you can see a huge number of important historical sights and museums. The symbol of the city is the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Holy Mother of God, located on Cyril and Methodius Square. In Varna, there is a wonderful Seaside Park "Morska Gradina", which houses the Palace of Culture and Sports, a zoo, a dolphinarium, a planetarium, an Aquarium and a Museum of Nature. Also of great interest is the Archaeological Museum, the pride of which is a collection of gold items from the 6th millennium BC. In the suburbs of Varna, it is worth visiting the Evksinograd Palace, surrounded by a chic park, the Stone Forest valley with impressive columns (up to 6 m high), whose age is 50 million years, and the Aladzha Monastery.
Bulgarian cuisine
The dishes of the Bulgarian cuisine are similar to those of the Armenian and Georgian cuisines. Particularly close to Bulgarian are such dishes as kharcho soup, piti, kebabs, kebab, basturma, chakhokhbili.
Many Bulgarian national dishes are cooked on a skar - a large oven with a metal grate. Kebapcheta, lamb skewers, kebabs, fillets, chickens, chops, zrazy stuffed with sweet peppers, game dishes are cooked on the grates of the oven.
In Bulgarian cuisine, fresh and pickled vegetables are widely used, all kinds of vegetable dishes and side dishes are prepared from them. Bulgarian cooks perfectly combine vegetables with fish, meat, flour, egg and dairy products.
Characteristic of Bulgarian cuisine is the use of sour milk, curdled milk, cheese and kashkavala cheese (sheep cheese) for cold appetizers, soups and second courses.
Bulgarian cooks, using cheese for food, often subject it to heat treatment. To do this, cheese is mixed with butter, wrapped in parchment paper and heated. When hot, feta cheese acquires a pleasant taste and aroma, becomes tender, soft and juicy. Of the first courses, chicken broth with egg yolk, vegetable soup with pasta, zucchini soup, pork soup with apples, chorba, lamb soup, kharcho soup, pickle, mashed soups from various vegetables and meat products and tarators are very popular. (cold soups with sour milk).
Of the second courses, lamb, veal and pork with cabbage are common, pork chops, kebabs, steaks, fillets, kebabs and lamb stews, gouvechi - dishes from meat, rice and vegetables, plakia - dishes from vegetables, onions, garlic and spices stewed with vegetable oil, yahnia - stew with vegetables and onions or only vegetables with onions, kebabs - pieces of meat fried on a spit, and of course, kebapcheta - short minced meat sausages grilled over hot hardwood coals trees, cabbage rolls, stuffed tomatoes and zucchini, omelettes. Separately, salads (from tomatoes, cucumbers, eggplants, sweet peppers, green beans, green salad) are served separately for the second meat dishes.
The current Bulgarian legislation provides for the following types of commercial enterprises.
1. Collective society (collective friendship - SD);
2. Command partnership (Command partnership - KD);
3. Limited Liability Company (Friendship with Limited Excuses - OOD);
4. Joint-stock company (Joint-Stock Friendship - AD);
5. Command partnership with shares (Command partnership with shares - KDA);
6. Private entrepreneur (Single trader - ET).
All of them, with the exception of ET, are legal entities. Their founders may be Bulgarian or foreign individuals and legal entities. All companies must be entered in the commercial register by decision of the district court at the location of the company (for Sofia - in the Sofia City Court). The decision of the court must be published in the official state newspaper "Darzhaven Vestnik".
In terms of taxation, all enterprises are equal. It is also mandatory to register with the tax service, the statistical office and the pension fund.
COLLECTIVE SOCIETY(Subiratelno friendship - SD). The SD is a typical representative of personal societies, which, as a rule, are created by co-founders who know each other well. In personal societies, the members of the firm are united by personal labor. Their number must be at least two, they bear joint and several and unlimited liability for the obligations of the company, including liability with personal property (without non-sequesterable property - housing, labor remuneration, etc.). The relationship between the founders is determined by the constituent agreement. They are obliged to personally participate in the activities of the SD. The minimum authorized capital of the company is not defined by law, therefore this form is suitable for persons with small funds and when the company's activities do not involve the assumption of large obligations. Each co-founder has the right to manage the company. But without the consent of the other co-founders, he cannot participate in other companies or enter into transactions related to the subject of activity of this company.
LIMITED COMPANY(Team friendship - CD). Unlike the Board of Directors, in this company, one or more co-founders bear joint and several and unlimited liability for the obligations of the company, and the rest - only in the amount of the agreed contribution to the authorized capital. The company is managed and represented by an unlimitedly responsible co-founder. Limitedly liable co-founders do not have the right to manage the enterprise and to suspend decisions taken by unlimitedly liable co-founders. Otherwise, the CD corresponds to the SD.
LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY(Friendship with Limited Excuses - OOD). The most suitable form of activity for small and medium-sized capital. It combines elements of personal and capital companies, but is ranked among the latter due to the fact that the minimum amount of the authorized capital is limited - 5000 levs. OODs have become widespread in Bulgaria due to the benefits they provide.
Unlike the Board of Directors, OOD does not require the personal participation of co-founders in the activities of the company, and they risk only the amounts contributed to the authorized capital. At the same time, OOD differs from a joint-stock company (another form of capital company) by a simplified registration procedure, less publicity of the results of its activities and a small amount of the minimum authorized capital.
By the time of filing documents for registration, at least 70% of the total amount must be paid into the authorized capital of the company, the rest - within one year. The share of one co-founder in the authorized capital cannot be less than 10 levs. The number of founders is unlimited. One or more co-founders or a specially appointed person who is not a founder is allowed to manage and represent the company. There are no restrictions on the number of participants, and there are no restrictions on the participation of foreign capital.
The number of founders can be changed even after the registration of the company, i.e. founders can be withdrawn from the firm or new ones introduced. All changes in the constituent documents must be registered in court. The founder of the OOD can be an individual or a legal entity. In this case, it will be referred to as "Private LLC" (Solely friendship with limited excuses - EOOD). The founder of the EOOD can personally manage and represent the company or appoint another person. Otherwise, EOOD corresponds to OOD.
All founders of the LLC must participate in the general meeting of founders, the frequency of which, according to Bulgarian law, is at least once a year, starting from the date of registration of the company in Bulgaria. The powers of the general meeting of founders extend to:
- adoption of the charter and amendments to it;
- approval of the annual financial report;
- Appointment of the General Director;
- distribution of profit after taxes, after changes in the authorized capital.
The company is managed by the General Director, appointed by the decision of the general meeting of founders, initially - as part of the procedure for registering a company in Bulgaria. The CEO has the right to represent the interests of the company based on the provisions of its articles of association. At the same time, the registration of a company in Bulgaria requires the registration of the name of the General Director in the Commercial Register.
The main advantages that registration of a company in Bulgaria in the form of an LLC can give:
- the minimum possible amount of authorized capital;
- before starting the registration of a company in Bulgaria, only 70% of the authorized capital is required to be paid;
- an audit is mandatory only if there are special requirements related to the type of company's activity (banking, insurance, etc.);
- there is no need to form and maintain reserve funds both at the time of registration of a company in Bulgaria and subsequently;
- limited liability of founders.
JOINT-STOCK COMPANY(Joint-stock friendship - AD). AD is a typical capital society in which the participants are united only by capital. The authorized capital is divided into equal parts (shares). The shareholder participates in the company solely through his shares: he is not obliged to make any personal efforts. In addition, at any time he can sell his shares. The minimum capital of AD must be BGN 50,000. (according to the nominal value of shares), in case of formation of a company through subscription - 100,000 levs. Shares must be registered with the Central Depository. AD is managed by the general meeting and the board of directors (board of directors).
LIMITED COMPANY WITH SHARES(Team friendship with the action - KDA). The KDA is formed by an agreement between limitedly liable and unlimitedly liable founders. There must be at least three limitedly liable co-founders and they are issued shares in the amount of their contributions to the authorized capital. The founders of the company are unlimitedly responsible co-founders, they also convene the constituent assembly. In the general meeting, only limitedly responsible co-founders have the right to vote, the board of directors also consists only of them. In all other respects, the KDA corresponds to a joint-stock company.
SELF EMPLOYED(The sole trader - ET). ET is an individual. Established by a Bulgarian citizen or a foreigner who has permanent residence status in Bulgaria. One person can register as ET only one company. The minimum authorized capital of the company is not defined by law. The founder is responsible for the obligations of the company and is liable with his personal property. ET participates with the same property in both civil and commercial transactions. ET is recommended for individuals at the beginning of their business activities and when the activities of the company do not involve the assumption of large obligations. The name of the company must contain without abbreviation the name and surname of the founder.
List of documents of the parent company opening a representative office in the Republic of Bulgaria.
- Charter of the company - a copy;
- Memorandum of association of the company - a copy;
- Actual certificate of the tax service - a notarized copy;
- Registration certificate of the company (notarized);
- Statistics - copy;
- Minutes of the founders' meeting (on the opening of a representative office in the Republic of Bulgaria);
- Order of the director of the company on the appointment of a "director by law" of the representative office (with passport data);
- A copy of a valid international passport of the future "Director of Law";
- A power of attorney (notarized) from the director of the company to an authorized person in Bulgaria who will carry out activities on the territory of Bulgaria;
- A power of attorney from the future "director of law" of the representative office in Bulgaria to carry out actions for hiring an office, housing, etc.
Prepared and duly certified documents should be sent by express mail (DHL, EMS, FEDEX or similar).
After receiving all the documents and their translation into Bulgarian, the company's representative office in Bulgaria is registered. The term - minimum 30 days, maximum 60 days - depends on the terms of issuing the company's plastic card in BULSTAT.
Company registration costs. This whole sequence of operations, as a rule, takes about 1 month.
It is important to note that immediately after receiving the court decision, the countdown begins for registrations in subsequent State. Organizations. Missing the deadlines threatens with fines from 50 to 500 levs.
Registration costs for foreigners, as a rule, in the amount of 800 euros. When foreigners purchase expensive real estate (worth more than 100,000 Euros), intermediary firms interested in selling often offer free services to create a legal entity. The procedure for registering a company can take about 1 month.
Republic of Bulgaria
Bulgaria is located in the southeast of Europe, on the Balkan Peninsula. In the north it borders with Romania, in the west - with Serbia and Macedonia, in the south - with Greece and Turkey. In the east it is washed by the Black Sea.
The country was named after the ethnonym of the people - the Bulgarians.
Capital
Square
Population
8210 thousand people
Administrative division
Consists of 8 areas which include communities. The city of Sofia also has the status of a region.
Form of government
Parliamentary republic.
head of state
President elected for a term of 5 years.
supreme legislative body
Unicameral People's Assembly.
Plovdiv, Varna, Rousse, Burgas.
Official language
Bulgarian.
Religion
85% are Orthodox, 13% are Muslims.
Ethnic composition
87% - Bulgarians, 9% - Turks, 2.5% - Gypsies, 2.5% - Macedonians.
Currency
Lev = 100 stotinka.
Climate
Continental, transitional to the Mediterranean. The average annual temperature is + 13°С. The air temperature in January reaches zero. The average temperature of the warmest month - July - in the plains is from + 23 °С to + 25 °С. Precipitation in the lowlands falls 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 vertical climatic zonality is clearly visible. The highest point is 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.
Fauna
Deer, fallow deer, roe deer, chamois, wild boar live in the forests, wolf, fox, hare, ferret, badger, ground squirrel live in the mountains. A large number of birds. Reptiles are common in the south of the country. In the Black Sea they catch mackerel, flounder, in the Danube - stellate sturgeon, pike perch, carp.
Rivers and lakes. Rivers Danube, Iskar, Maritsa.
Attractions
Monument of the Russian-Bulgarian Brotherhood in Arms on the Shipka Pass, a basilica in Nessebar, a round church in Preslav, a large basilica in Pliska, churches of Peter and Paul in Veliko Tarnovo - a reserve town, a monastery of the 10th century. in Rila, a monastery, a mosque and a minaret in Plovdiv, the Cathedral of St. George, the Cathedral of St. Sophia, the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral of the 19th century, erected in honor of Russian soldiers who gave their lives for liberation from the Turkish yoke, the Jamia Mosque, the Boyana Church, the archaeological museum .
Useful information for tourists
In the warm season, in addition to windsurfing, water skiing and sailing, scuba diving and catamarans, rowing and all kinds of regattas are at guests' disposal. In spring and autumn, some luxury hotels offer heated seawater pools. Long boat trips along the coast of Golden Sands have a magical attraction, especially for children.
Speed limits: 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h outside and 120 km/h on highways.
