Bulgaria
Capital of Bulgaria: Sofia
Population of Bulgaria: 7,093,635
Total area of Bulgaria: 110,879 km2
Bulgaria is a small European country located in South Eastern Europe. Its flag consists of three horizontal stripes in the following order: white, green and red. Its coat of arms consists of two lions holding a chevron containing a lion and topped with an ornate crown. It is mostly yellow, green and red.
Bulgaria population
The population of Bulgaria numbers over 7.3 million people. This is a decline over the last twenty years due to a decreased fertility rate and a great deal of emigration. Its growth rate is the slowest of any country in the world. Most of the people are ethnically Bulgarian but there are some Turkish people in the population and a few Roma individuals. Bulgarian is the national language of the country and it has no other official languages. Most of the population is Orthodox Christian. They attend the Bulgarian Orthodox Church. Education is a requirement of all youth between the ages of 7 and 16. School is free until the child reaches college-age. The vast majority (more than 98 percent) of Bulgarians are literate.
History of Bulgaria
Bulgaria was occupied since prehistory. The first Bulgarian Empire took place in 681 CE, with a capital city called Pliska. The territory was doubled during this era and there were many wars against the likes of the Arabs. Wars against the Croatians weakened the country in the 900s. The first Bulgarian Empire was defeated in 1018 CE. The second Bulgarian Empire was established by the Asen dynasty in 1185. The capital was located in Tarnovo. This Asen dynasty came to a close in 1257 CE. The Ottomans then captured the capital of Bulgaria in 1393 CE and the Ottomans occupied the country. There were several unsuccessful results until 1876, when the country was established under its own rule. The country’s military was involved in WWI and in the Balkan Wars. The country was weakened and eventually fell under the dictatorship of Boris III. It fought with the Germans in WWII. It joined the allies during the war and became an independent state after WWII.
Bulgaria Tourism
Looking for an alternative from the more expensive European destinations? With its golden beaches, majestic mountains and vibrant city life, Bulgaria will make a great detour for any tourist on a budget. Swim in the Black Sea or go skiing in Bulgaria’s many mountain ski resorts. You can also take a relaxing dip in one of the country’s many mineral water spas. Many top hotels feature spas, particularly around the Black Sea coast. The Belogradchik fortress, the ancient Magura Cave on Rabisha Lake, and the Belogradchik Rocks are some of the main attractions when you walk around the age old town of Belogradchik. Mountain biking enthusiasts will enjoy the excellent trails of the Rhodopi Mountains while families will enjoy cycling along the Black Sea coast. In Sofia, you will marvel at the various architecture styles—from Greek, Roman, Byzantine to Turkish—which define their museums, churches as well as art galleries and opera houses.
Although Bulgaria’s main cities have become modern with well-kept boulevards, boutiques and an active nightlife, many of its towns and villages still preserve that authentic Bulgarian spirit and hospitality. Bulgarian is the country’s official language but in major tourist resorts and hotel, English, German, French, and Russian are spoken. An important part of Bulgarian life is its music festivals. The famous Pirin Folk Ensemble, a major group based in Blagoevgrad is featured in the Pirin Pee Festival. Bulgarian people are patriotic and will often ask you if you like their country. Most will most likely leave with a good impression of this charming country.