How much do you know about Bulgaria?
Bulgaria has been described as an open air
museum of Balkan culture with fine archeological discoveries,
wonderfully preserved churches, mosques and villages, and a great
deal of enduring folklore, all set in a beautiful and diverse
natural environment.
Bulgaria is a country of contrasts with a mountainous interior
and a coastline of white sandy beaches. This varied landscape is
home to several varieties of bear and eagles, vultures, pelicans
and falcons.
Sofia - the cultural and administrative capital of Bulgaria is
an ancient town and is rapidly gaining in global importance. This
city of more than one million people is a delightful gateway
to a mix of cultures and religions; the ethnic tolerance of
Bulgaria's society is reflected in Sofia. A short walk in the
centre from the marketplace is the Byzantine Church of St. George,
which itself sits atop the ruins of the Roman settlement. Nearby is
the Banya Bashi Mosque, the largest in the country and around the
corner is the Sofia Synagogue, the largest Sephardic Synagogue in
Europe.
Facts and Figures
- Bulgaria is the number one exporter of medicinal plants in
Europe, and fourth largest exporter in the world.
- Bulgaria has some of the most significant natural habitats for
red deer, brown bear, wolves and Balkan chamois, in all of
Europe.
- The oldest golden treasure in the world, dating from earlier
than 6000 B.C. was found in Bulgaria.
- UNESCO's list of World Natural and Historical Heritage includes
nine Bulgarian architectural, artistic and natural treasures.