THIS IS BULGARIA Welcome to Bulgaria - one of the most ancient European countries! Our country has sheltered the mystic singer Orpheus and has also contributed to the proliferation of the Slavonic alphabet all over the world. Although Bulgaria is a small country, it has been blessed with picturesque nature, hard-working people and rich culture. We offer you to have a glimpse at some of its most wonderful parts.

THE BELOGRADCHIK ROCKS The Belogradchik Rocks are located on the western slopes of the Balkan Mountains near the town of Belogradchik in northwest Bulgaria. Water and wind have shaped their bizarre forms throughout the centuries. Some of them resemble people while others look like animals, bridges, towers or mushrooms. Every stone here has its own history filled with anguish and heroism. A number of legends are associated with the rocks.

THE RILA MONASTERY One of Bulgaria’s most sacred places is situated at the heart of the Rila Mountain. The Rila Monastery was founded in the 10th century and it still keeps the Bulgarian spirit alive.

THE PANAGYURISHTE TREASURE This is the most beautiful golden set in the whole world. It is a masterpiece of Thracian art and a precious sign of antiquity.

THE CYRILLIC ALPHABET This is the third official alphabet in the European Union. The Old Bulgarian is one of the world’s classical languages along with Latin and old Greek.

THE MADARA RIDER The Madara Rider is a sculptural composition which is one of a kind in Europe. The sculpture was carved 23m above ground level in an almost vertical cliff during the 8th century. It represents a horse rider, thrusting a spear into a lion lying at his horse's feet. An eagle is flying in front of the horseman and a dog is running after him. The scene symbolises the triumph of the Bulgarian ruler over his enemies.

THE TSAREVETS FORTRESS The Tsarevets fortress is situated on a hill in the old Bulgarian capital of Veliko Turnovo. It fascinates with its magnificence and size. The historic hill is surrounded by fortified walls which turn it into an impregnable fortress.

THE SEVEN RILA LAKES The seven rila lakes are one of the most beautiful glacial lakes in our country. They are located in Rila- the highest mountain on the Balkan Peninsular.They have different elevation above sea level and look like giant footsteps, taking you up in the mountain. Their crystal waters are connected through rippled streams, forming small waterfalls.

BLACK SEA The Black Sea, with its endless sand beaches, is one of the most preferable places for entertainment during the long and hot summer days. Its coast is 378km long and distinguishes with various land relief. There are secluded beaches, breath- taking capes, crystal coastal lakes, steep cliffs and mysterious islands

THE ROSE VALLEY The Rose Valley is a small paradise in May! Bulgaria has been one of the biggest producers of rose oil ever since the 17th century.

SREBARNA LAKE Тhe Srebarna Lake is the largest lake on the territory of Bulgaria along the banks of the Danube river. It is a nature reserve and is included in UNESCO World Heritage List. It is home for a number of endangered species.

MINERAL WATER The mineral springs are Bulgaria’s most treasured natural sources. The healing waters of Hisaria, Bankia and Velingrad are well-known far beyond the borders of the country.

THE DEVIL’S THROAT CAVE The world’s second largest underground waterfall (42m) can be found here. According to the legend this is the place where Orpheus descends to the underworld to save his beloved Eyrudice from the Hades’s kingdom.