Bulgaria, officially the Republic of Bulgaria, is a country in Southeastern Europe, situated on the eastern part of the Balkan Peninsula. It's bordered by Romania to the north, Serbia and North Macedonia to the west, Greece and Turkey to the south, and the Black Sea to the east. Sofia is the nation's capital and largest city.
Bulgaria is known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and varied landscape. The country is famous for producing high-quality rose oil, with the Rose Valley near Kazanlak being a primary source. Key attractions include historical sites reflecting Thracian, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman influences, as well as natural features like the Balkan Mountains and the Black Sea coastline. Popular destinations include the Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the ancient city of Plovdiv, and the beaches of Sunny Beach.
Recent developments include Bulgaria's adoption of the euro on January 1, 2026, becoming the 21st member of the Eurozone. However, the country has faced political instability, with multiple elections and changes in government. In December 2025, the government resigned due to mass protests against proposed tax increases, leading to expectations of early elections in 2026. Despite these challenges, Bulgaria continues to develop its economy and maintain its cultural heritage.
