Bulgaria
Coastal BeachesBulgaria, officially the Republic of Bulgaria, is a country situated in Southeast Europe and is 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. It is the 16th largest country in Europe and boasts a diverse topography with a mix of mountains, plains, and sea. The capital and largest city is Sofia, located at the foot of Mount Vitosha. Bulgaria has a rich cultural heritage, with influences from Thracian, Slavic, Ottoman, and Greek cultures, among others. It is known for its traditional music, dance, costumes, and crafts, as well as its historical sites, including ancient Thracian cities, Roman ruins, and medieval Bulgarian monasteries. The country has a transitional climate with both Mediterranean and continental influences, resulting in hot summers and cold, snowy winters. Bulgaria's economy is primarily industrialized, with a focus on heavy industry and agriculture, and it is a major producer of wine and dairy products. Tourism is also a significant sector, with visitors drawn to its Black Sea resorts, winter sports destinations, and cultural landmarks. Bulgaria joined the European Union in 2007, which has contributed to its economic development and modernization, although it remains one of the EU's less affluent countries. The country has a rich biodiversity with three national parks, several nature parks, and numerous protected areas. Bulgarian cuisine is diverse and flavorful, with a variety of dishes influenced by its geographic position and historical migrations. It is also known for its yogurt, which is a staple in many Bulgarian dishes. The official language is Bulgarian, and the country has a predominantly Eastern Orthodox Christian population, with a variety of other religious minorities.
