Official name- Republic of Bulgaria (Republic of Bulgaria, Republic of Bulgaria). Located in Southeast Europe. The area is 111 thousand km2. Population - 7.9 million people. (2002). Official language- Bulgarian. The capital is the city of Sofia (1.19 million people, 2002). Public Holiday. Day of liberation from the Ottoman yoke March 3 - Monetary unit - lion.

Member of the UN (since 1955), IMF (since 1990), WTO (since 1996), Central European Free Trade Agreement (since 1999), official candidate for EU membership, has the status of an invited member of NATO.

Sights of Bulgaria

Geography of Bulgaria

It is located in the northeast of the Balkan Peninsula between 44°13' and 41°14' north latitude, 22°22' and 28°36' east longitude. The total length of the state border is 2245 km, incl. 686 km river and 378 km sea. In the north, Bulgaria borders on Romania, in the south - on Turkey and Greece, in the west - on Macedonia and Serbia, the eastern part of Bulgaria is washed by the Black Sea.

The natural conditions of Bulgaria are quite diverse. OK. 30% of its territory is occupied by mountain ranges and approximately 70% by flat and hilly lands. In the middle part of the country from west to east stretches Stara Planina (Balkan Mountains) with the highest peak named after. Hristo Boteva (2376 m). Mountain ranges rise in the south and south-west of the country: Rila (the highest peak in the Balkans, Musala - 2925 m), Pirin (Vihren - 2914 m), Rhodopes.

Bulgaria has relatively many rivers, but only the Danube is navigable. The rivers - Iskar, Tundzha, Maritsa, Yantra, etc. - are shallow and are used as a source of electricity and irrigation.

In the north is the most extensive Danubian hilly plain. In southern Bulgaria lies the fertile Thracian plain. The capital Sofia is located in the Great Sophia Basin. The Black Sea coast of Bulgaria is predominantly low with an extensive beach strip.

The features of the relief and climate in different regions determined the diversity of soil cover and vegetation. On the Danube Plain, soils are predominantly chernozem and gray forest podzolized; south of Stara Planina, brown and dense chernozems predominate; for mountainous areas mainly brown forest and mountain-meadow soils are typical.

OK. 1/3 (3.9 million hectares in 1987) of the country's territory is occupied by forests, of which approximately 2/3 is deciduous (beech, oak, hornbeam, etc.) and 1/3 is coniferous (spruce, pine, fir). ).

Of the minerals, the most important are lead-zinc, copper and iron ores, brown and hard coal, salt, kaolin, gypsum, marble, etc. Bulgaria is rich in springs (about 500) mineral waters with high medicinal properties.

The climate of the predominant part of Bulgaria is temperate continental. In the south, especially in the valleys of the Struma and Mesta rivers, it is transitional to the Mediterranean. The average air temperature ranges from 11.8 to 13.2°C; minimum between 1.8 and 3°C; and the maximum is 23-25°C. The average annual rainfall is 650 mm. The beauty and diversity of nature, mild climate and extensive comfortable beaches attract numerous tourists to Bulgaria.

Population of Bulgaria

In 1965-85, there was a tendency towards population growth (respectively from 8.2 to 8.9 million people), which in the 1990s. changed to the opposite. To the beginning 2002 population decreased by 11% compared to 1985. In ethnic composition The population is dominated by Bulgarians (approx. 84%, 2001). Of the other ethnic groups, the most numerous are Turks (9.5%) and Gypsies (4.6%). According to the data of the 2001 census, for 84.5% of the population the native language is Bulgarian, for 9.6% - Turkish, for 4% - Roma. The ratio of births and deaths in the 20th century. led to a downward trend in natural population growth, which, however, to the end. 1980s was positive. In 2001, the birth rate was 8.6‰, mortality - 14.1‰, infant mortality - 14.4 people. per 1000 newborns. In the 1990s natural growth became negative: -5.5‰ (2001). Average life expectancy (1998-2000) - 71.7 years, incl. men - 68.2, women - 75.3 years.

The population is aging. In the age structure, the proportion of young people (under 20 years old) decreased from 51.1% in 1900 to 21.8% in 2001, while the proportion of the elderly (60 years and older) increased from 8.4 to 22.5%. excess of the female population, to the beginning. 2002 men 48.7% of the population, women - 51.3%, 1053 women accounted for 1000 men. In the course of urbanization, the urban population rapidly increased, which accounted for 46.5% in 1965, and 69.3% by 2002. Bulgaria is gradually raising the retirement age. In 2003, subject to certain conditions, it was 57 years for women and 62 years for men. Educational level of the population: St. 52% over the age of 7 have higher and secondary education (2001).

The dominant religion is Orthodoxy, which is followed by approx. 82.6% of the population, 12.2% Muslim, 0.6% Catholic, 0.5% Protestant, 3.6% not self-determined (2001).

History of Bulgaria

The earliest settlements on the territory of present-day Bulgaria date back to the Paleolithic era. The oldest known population is the Thracian tribes. By the 1st century AD Thracian lands fell under the rule of the Roman Empire, and after its collapse in the 5th century. found themselves within the Byzantine Empire. Gradually, the Thracians were assimilated by the Slavs, who in the 6th century. began to massively settle on the Balkan Peninsula. In the 7th century Proto-Bulgarians of Turkic origin invaded the northeastern part of present-day Bulgaria under the leadership of Khan Asparuh. In alliance with the Slavs, their struggle against Byzantium was crowned with success. In 681, Byzantium recognized the formation of the Bulgarian state, headed by Khan Asparuh, and Pliska was chosen as the capital.

At 8 and early. 9th century the territory of the state was significantly expanded. In 864, Christianity was adopted as the official religion. In the 2nd floor. 9th c. brothers Cyril (Konstantin the Philosopher) and Methodius, the creators of the Slavic alphabet, spread Slavic writing. During the time of Tsar Simeon (893-927), the most prominent of the rulers of the First Bulgarian Kingdom, new territorial acquisitions pushed the borders of the state to the shores of the Aegean Sea. The independence of the Bulgarian Church from the Patriarch of Constantinople was proclaimed. Introduced Slavic writing. Bulgarian became the official state, church and literary language. Under the heirs of Simeon, however, internal strife arose, which weakened the country. After long wars with Byzantium, Bulgaria in 1018 again fell under its rule.

In 1186 an uprising led by the brothers Peter and Asen led to the formation of a new Bulgarian state known as the Second Bulgarian Kingdom (1186-1396). Its capital was Tarnovo. However, internal strife led to Ser. 14th c. to the division of the country into two kingdoms: Vidin and Tarnovo. Feudal fragmentation weakened Bulgaria. In 1396, it was conquered by the Ottoman Empire, under whose yoke it was for almost five centuries.

All this time, the Bulgarian people resisted the enslavers and managed to preserve their identity and culture. From the beginning 18th century the national liberation movement began to gain strength, which at first was educational, and later acquired the character of a revolutionary one. Raising the level of organization of the national liberation struggle and substantiating the revolutionary path is closely connected with the name of the writer and publicist, figure of education G. Rakovsky (1821-67). Among the prominent figures of the national liberation movement, its ideologists, strategists and organizers were also national heroes V. Levskiy, L. Karavelov, H. Botev. The apogee of the national liberation struggle was the April Uprising of 1876, which was brutally suppressed.

As a result of the victory of the Russian army in the war with Turkey (1877-78), the Bulgarian state was restored, but by decision of the Berlin Congress (1878), Bulgaria was divided into three parts: the principality of Bulgaria (Northern Bulgaria and the Sofia region); Eastern Rumelia (Southern Bulgaria - an autonomous region, vassal of Turkey) and Thrace with Macedonia, which remained within the Ottoman Empire. In 1885 the Principality of Bulgaria and Eastern Rumelia united. In 1887 Ferdinand of Saxe-Coburg-Gotha (1887-1918) became Prince of Bulgaria. In 1908, Bulgaria finally freed itself from vassal dependence on Turkey, and Prince Ferdinand was proclaimed Tsar of the Bulgarians.

Bulgaria with Greece, Serbia and Montenegro participated in the 1st Balkan War (1912) against Turkey for the freedom of Thrace and Macedonia. However, contradictions between former allies over the division of the liberated territories led to the 2nd Inter-Allied Balkan War (1913), in which Bulgaria was defeated and lost not only the lands acquired as a result of the 1st Balkan War, but also part of the former territories, ceding Southern Dobruja to Romania. Serbia and Greece divided almost all of Macedonia among themselves. Bulgaria was left with the Pirin region and Western Thrace, which gave access to the Aegean Sea.

Participation in World War I on the side of Germany had grave consequences for the country. According to the Treaty of Neuilly (1919), Bulgaria lost its western outskirts and Western Thrace. Southern Dobruja, which was actually included within Bulgaria during the war, was again lost and passed to Romania. In 1918, Tsar Ferdinand abdicated in favor of his son Boris III(1918-43). In August 1943 after sudden death Tsar Boris was succeeded by the young Simeon II, under whom a regency was created.

During World War II, Bulgaria collaborated with Nazi Germany and its allies. On September 5, 1944, the USSR declared war on Bulgaria, and on September 8 Soviet troops crossed the Bulgarian border. This contributed to the activation of the political forces that fought against fascism and rallied around the Fatherland Front (OF). On September 9, 1944, the government of the PF was formed, headed by K. Georgiev. In 1946, a referendum was held on the form of government, following which Bulgaria was proclaimed a People's Republic (September 15, 1946). After that, Tsar Simeon, the Queen Mother and Princess Marie-Louise left the country.

On November 22, 1946, a new government of the PF was formed, headed by G. Dimitrov. On February 10, 1947, at the Paris Peace Conference, a peace treaty was signed with Bulgaria, which confirmed national independence and the territorial integrity of the country, the annexation of Southern Dobruja, transferred to Bulgaria by Romania in 1940. After the death of G. Dimitrov (1949), the government was successively headed by V. Kolarov, V. Chervenkov, A. Yugov. In March 1954, T. Zhivkov became the head of the Communist Party, in 1962-71 he was simultaneously chairman of the Council of Ministers, in July 1971 he was elected chairman of the State Council of the country. Zhivkov remained party leader and head of state until his resignation on November 10, 1989.

In the course of the course pursued by the Communist Party towards building socialism, a party-state political system took shape, political parties outside the Fatherland Front ceased to exist. Was admitted high degree stateization of property. Accelerated industrialization was carried out with an emphasis on the priority development of engineering, oriented to export to the countries of the Council for Mutual Economic Assistance, primarily in the USSR.

Since November 1989, the countdown of democratic transformations, the systemic transformation of society in Bulgaria, begins. In June 1990, elections were held for the Great People's Assembly, which adopted a new Constitution that came into force in July 1991.

State structure and political system of Bulgaria

According to the Constitution (1991), Bulgaria is a republic with parliamentary government, a single state with local self-government. Autonomous territorial formations are not allowed in Bulgaria. Her territorial integrity inviolable. Political life is based on the principle of political pluralism.

The economy, according to the Constitution, must be based on free economic initiative. The right of ownership and inheritance is guaranteed and protected by law. The property is private and public. Private property is inviolable.

In administrative terms, Bulgaria is divided into 28 regions, incl. the capital Sofia (with the rights of the region). The largest cities: Plovdiv, Varna, Burgas, Ruse.

The highest body of legislative power is the unicameral People's Assembly (Parliament). It consists of 240 deputies who are elected for 4 years on the basis of a proportional system. Parliamentary elections are based on the principles of universal, equal and direct suffrage by secret ballot. The right to participate in elections is granted to all Bulgarian citizens upon reaching the age of 18, and any citizen of the country who does not have another citizenship and has reached the age of 21 can be elected. Parties and coalitions that receive at least 4% of the total number of votes cast have the right to participate in the distribution of mandates at the national level. People's representatives, as noted in the Constitution, represent not only their constituents, but the whole people. Parliament elects a chairman, temporary and permanent commissions. Chairman of the National Assembly (2002) - Ognyan Gerdzhikov. Elections to the current People's Assembly of the 39th convocation were held on June 17, 2001. It consists of: 120 representatives of the National Movement "Simeon II" (NDV); 51 deputies from the United Democratic Forces (UDF) coalition; 48 - from the coalition "For Bulgaria"; 21 - from the coalition "Movement for Rights and Freedoms" (DPS).

The main body of executive power is the Council of Ministers (Government), which is headed by the Prime Minister. The government is elected by the parliament on the proposal of the prime minister, who is instructed in the prescribed manner to form the government by the president. Under the leadership of the government, the domestic and foreign policy of the state is carried out, public order and national security are ensured. The Council of Ministers exercises general management of the state administration and the Armed Forces, and the execution of the state budget. The activity of the government is directly controlled by the Parliament.

The Prime Minister directs and is responsible for the general policy of the Cabinet. Members of the government may not engage in activities incompatible with the position of people's representative. Civil servants must be guided only by the law and be politically neutral.

On July 24, 2001, the People's Assembly approved Simeon of Saxe-Coburg-Gotha, the representative of the most numerous parliamentary group of the NDSV, as prime minister.

Simeon of Sakskoburggotsky (born in 1937) is the son of the Bulgarian Tsar Boris III. In 1946, after a referendum declaring Bulgaria a republic, he left the country. From 1951 he lived in Spain. Studied law and political sciences.

The head of state is the president. He is the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, personifies the unity of the nation and represents the country in international relations. The President is directly elected for a term of 5 years and no more than two mandates. More than half of the voters must participate in the voting. A candidate who receives more than half of the valid votes is considered elected.

The President appoints and dismisses the senior command staff of the Armed Forces. He chairs the National Security Advisory Board. The President is given the power to declare war, martial law or a state of emergency when the People's Assembly is not in session.

The President sets the date for elections to the People's Assembly and to local self-government bodies. It determines the date of the national referendum when the People's Assembly decides to hold it.

After consulting with parliamentary groups, the president instructs the candidate for prime minister nominated by the largest parliamentary group to form a government.

A Bulgarian citizen over 40 years of age who was born in Bulgaria, meets the conditions for election as a people's representative and has lived in the country for the last 5 years can be elected President. The President cannot be a deputy, engage in any other state, public and economic activity participate in the leadership of a political party.

The first popularly elected president was Zhelyu Zhelev (1992), who was succeeded by Pyotr Stoyanov (1996). They were elected as candidates of the Union of Democratic Forces. In the November 2001 presidential election, Georgi Parvanov, the former leader of the Bulgarian Socialist Party, was elected president.

The main administrative-territorial unit is a community with a self-governing body, a community council. It adopts annual budgets and community development plans. The functions of executive power in the community are carried out by the committee. A region is a larger administrative-territorial unit, headed by a government-appointed regional manager with his own administration. Thus, the regional public policy and provides a combination of national and local interests.

The Bulgarian constitution guarantees the freedom to form political parties. At the same time, none of them can be declared or approved as a state one. The formation of parties on an ethnic, racial or religious basis, as well as parties whose goal is the violent seizure of power, is not allowed. According to the law on political parties (2001), a party can be formed by Bulgarian citizens who have the right to vote, and for its registration in court, it is necessary to provide founding act, charter and a list of at least 500 founding members. The multi-party system is in the process of becoming. In 2001, there were more than 250 parties in Bulgaria, most of which are small and, according to established standards, cannot independently participate in elections.

In Bulgaria, until 2001, there was basically a bipolar model of the political space, where the two largest formations fought: the Bulgarian Socialist Party (BSP) (the successor to the Bulgarian Communist Party) and the Union of Democratic Forces (SDS). The BSP, being the most numerous and organized force on the left side of the political spectrum, was not homogeneous, which affected the pace of the formation of a new image of the party. Until 1997, the SDS, as the core of the organized opposition to the left flank, was a coalition of parties, movements and associations of various ideological and political views, from conservative to center-right. In the parliamentary elections (April 1997), the SDS already acted as a political party.

In the elections of June 17, 2001, more than three dozen parties and coalitions applied for deputy mandates. As a result, the following most influential political forces ended up in parliament. The victorious NDSV, created shortly before the elections. In 2002, it was transformed into a party, in the program declaration of which it was noted that it would be both conservative and liberal, and would have a social orientation. The defeated former ruling centre-right party SDF is the core of the United Democratic Forces (UDF) coalition. Coalition "For Bulgaria", in which left and center-left movements united around the largest Bulgarian Socialist Party (BSP). In these elections, the BSP received the lowest result in the 1990s. The Movement for Rights and Freedoms (DPS), whose electorate is represented mainly by the national minority - ethnic Turks.

AT public life countries are actively involved in trade union associations at the sectoral and national level. The Confederation of Independent Trade Unions of Bulgaria (KNSB) and the Podkrepa Labor Confederation play an important role in building social partnership. Among the leading organizations of business circles are the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Union of Employers of Bulgaria, the Chamber of Commerce, etc.

During 1991-2001, parliamentary elections were held in Bulgaria 4 times, and twice ahead of schedule. During the same time (until July 2001) 7 governments were replaced (including two service ones). Only the government headed by the former SDF leader I. Kostov (1997-2001) used its mandate in full. As a rule, the change of cabinets took place on a wave of dissatisfaction with the results of socio-economic policy, due to insufficient consideration of the social tolerance of radical measures, the involvement of managers in corruption.

In the beginning. 1990s in the conditions of broad liberalization of economic life, the main emphasis was placed on achieving macroeconomic stabilization by reducing consumer and investment demand. This, it was believed, should have been accompanied by systemic transformations and the formation of a market infrastructure. The restitution of alienated property was carried out, the return of land to the former owners began. However, the reform of the economy was late. In the 2nd floor. 1990s after the crisis of the banking system, it was restructured. In 1997-99, the privatization process accelerated and is nearing completion. In 2000-02, problems of economic growth come to the fore, administrative reform begins, and attention to the fight against corruption increases. In October 2002, the European Commission recognized Bulgaria as a country with a functioning market economy, noting a number of serious shortcomings, the elimination of which will require great efforts. A difficult modernization and increase in the competitiveness of the economy lies ahead.

In foreign policy, a course was taken for a "return" to Europe. Bulgaria's main priority is integration into European and Euro-Atlantic structures. In 1995 Bulgaria became an associate member of the EU, in December 1999 it was accepted as a candidate for EU membership. In December 2002, at a meeting of EU leaders in Copenhagen, it was announced that Bulgaria, subject to further fulfillment of the membership criteria, could become a member of the EU in 2007.

In November 2002 Bulgaria received an invitation to join NATO (2004). Bulgaria pays great attention to the Balkan regional cooperation within the framework of the Stability Pact in South-Eastern Europe project.

The Republic of Bulgaria has diplomatic relations with the Russian Federation (established with the USSR in July 1934). In 2002-03 there was a revival and prospects for deepening friendly relations and partnership between the Russian Federation and Bulgaria, and expanding trade and economic cooperation between them.

Economy of Bulgaria

In the 1990s in the process of social transformation there was a deep economic recession. The reasons for this are related to the inherited energy and import-intensive production, the loss of traditional sales markets, the difficulties of reorienting foreign trade relations to Western markets, where Bulgarian goods were not competitive enough. The limited domestic demand and increased competition for imported goods also had a negative impact on the capabilities of local producers. There were also miscalculations in management decisions that provide methods, rules and conditions economic transformation. Despite the growth of the economy in 1998-2002, the volume of GDP remains below the pre-reform level. GDP in 2001 was 13.6 billion dollars, per capita - 1718 dollars. Calculated on the basis of purchasing power parity, per capita GDP amounted to 24% of the average for EU countries.

In the 1990s the number of people employed in the economy decreased by almost 1/4. Economically active population in 2002 - 3248 thousand people. (48.4% of the total population over 15 years old), of which 2,704 thousand are employed, 544 thousand are unemployed. (16.8% of the workforce). Unemployment has become chronic. In 1991, "shock therapy" was carried out in Bulgaria, consumer prices increased 5.7 times. The second strong burst of inflation occurred during the crisis of the financial and banking system in con. 1996 - early 1997. During 1996-2002, average annual consumer prices increased 39 times.

In the 1990s under the influence of demand in the domestic and foreign markets, as well as investment opportunities, there have been noticeable shifts in the sectoral structure of the economy. The fastest growing employment was in the service sector - 46.5% of the employed (2002). The industrial sector - 27.9%, agriculture - 25.6%. The main part of the employed (approx. 3/4) is concentrated in the private sector. In 2002, the service sector accounted for 52.7% of GDP, industry - 24.5%, agriculture - 11.0%.

Industry in Bulgaria in the 1990s experienced a deep structural crisis. In 2000-02 there were signs of growth. The volume of industrial production in 2002 increased by 0.6% (however, it was 20% lower than in 1995), incl. in extractive industries - by 24%, in manufacturing - by 23%. Capacity utilization - approximately 60% (late 2002).

OK. 80% of products are produced in the manufacturing industry, approx. 5% - in mining and 15% - in enterprises for the production and supply of electricity and heat, gas, water.

The largest share (ca. 18% in 2001) belongs to the production of food, beverages and tobacco products, which was traditionally developed in Bulgaria. An important place belongs to metallurgy and the production of metal products (more than 10% of gross output). Non-ferrous metallurgy, using local raw materials, is developing relatively successfully. Petroleum products, soda ash, mineral fertilizers are produced. The share of mechanical engineering - approx. ten%. In 2002, the production of radio-television equipment and means of communication, electronic computers and office equipment increased.

Bulgaria has favorable natural and climatic conditions for the development of agriculture. In the 1990s an agrarian reform was carried out, during which the land was returned to the former owners and their heirs, which led to the emergence of significant small and fragmented private ownership of land. This created serious problems for efficient land use and management. The deterioration of the material and technical security of agriculture, the reduction in investment, the loss of traditional foreign markets for agricultural products limited the realization of the potential of the industry. The dynamics of its production was unstable, and the volume in 2002 was 12% lower than in 1990. Almost all production is produced in the private sector. Crop and livestock production contribute almost equally to production (approximately 47% each), approx. 6% of agricultural products are production services.

The development of agriculture is defined as one of the priority areas of the economy. The government intends to bring agricultural policy in line with the EU common agricultural policy, create conditions for the consolidation of plots and more efficient use of land, promote the development of the market and market infrastructure.

Bulgaria's transport infrastructure is developing as an integral part of the pan-European transport network to become a transport bridge between Western and Central Europe and the countries of the Middle East, Western and Central Asia. The length of railway tracks is 6.4 thousand km, incl. 4.3 thousand km operated, of which 2/3 are electrified. The total length of the national road network is 37.3 thousand km. Maritime transport has 86 cargo ships, which serve the bulk of the foreign trade turnover. Seaports - Varna and Burgas. Bulgaria has four international airports. In 2002, 111.8 million tons of cargo were transported, incl. 16.5% by rail, 51.7% by road, 14% by sea and 16% by pipeline. In serving the population, a decisive role belongs to motor transport, which carries 2/3 of all passengers.

Favorable natural and climatic conditions create prerequisites for tourism, the development of which is recognized as one of the priorities. In 1999-2002 the number of foreign tourists visiting Bulgaria increased from 2.0 million to 2.99 million people. Tourist activity is carried out mainly by private business, which owns 96% of the property in this area. The largest number of tourists comes from Macedonia, Serbia and Montenegro, Greece, Great Britain and Germany. The introduction of a visa regime with Russia by Bulgaria (October 1, 2001) was accompanied by a decrease in the number of Russian tourists. In 2002 there were 24% less than in 2001.

The main directions of modern socio-economic policy are the focus on increasing the income of the population, reducing poverty and unemployment. The basis for this should be sustainable economic growth while strengthening macroeconomic stability. A course has been taken to accelerate structural reform, complete privatization and create a fully functioning competitive market economy.

In 2001-02, the macroeconomic situation in the country was relatively stable. GDP growth in 2001 - 4.1%, in 2002 - 4.8%. The inflation rate is 4.8 and 3.8%, respectively. The stabilization of the macroeconomics to a certain extent was facilitated by the mechanism of the currency board (in force since 1997), which is supposed to be maintained until joining the EU. A fixed exchange rate of the lev, pegged to the euro, has been established, the issue of central bank money is due to the increase in its foreign exchange reserves. Their size increased from 3.5 billion in 2000 to 3.58 billion in 2001 and 4.75 billion dollars in con. 2002. The functions of the central bank to refinance commercial banks were practically terminated; it can provide them with a loan only if the stability of the banking system is threatened. It does not have the authority to lend to the state, except for lending on SDRs. Most commercial banks have been privatized. As a rule, foreign investors became the owners of privatized banks. In 2002, there were signs of more active lending to the real sector of the economy. In connection with the conditions of the IMF and the desire to ensure EU norms, the focus on reducing the budget deficit became tougher, which in the 1990s. was chronic and covered mainly by external and internal borrowing. In 2001-02, the deficit of the consolidated state budget decreased (from 1.1% of GDP in 2000 to 0.9% in 2001 and 0.7% in 2002), and privatization revenues became the main source of its coverage. Changes in tax policy are aimed at strengthening the balance of the budget. Its concept is based on the need to evenly distribute the tax burden, stimulate business, reduce direct taxes and expand the tax base. Balancing current external payments and servicing the accumulated external debt remains an important problem. In con. 2002 external debt-gross amounted to 10.93 billion dollars (70.5% of GDP), incl. long-term debt accounted for 85.7% of the debt, and short-term - 14.3%; $1.29 billion, or 8.3% of GDP, was spent on servicing external debt.

In the course of reforming the economy, property was redistributed, real social transfers from the state were reduced, the previous model of stratification collapsed, a significant part of the population became poorer, and property differentiation intensified. In 2000, real incomes per family member were 1/5 lower than in 1995. Real wages also remained lower than in 1995.

The development of foreign economic relations is one of the decisive factors in the dynamism of the Bulgarian economy. The volume of foreign trade turnover (2001) reaches 90% of GDP. Import provides approx. 2/3 internal power consumption.

In 2002, Bulgaria's foreign trade turnover amounted to 13.38 billion dollars, incl. exports - 5.58 billion, and imports - 7.8 billion dollars. This year, exports for the first time exceeded the level of 1995. One of the most acute problems of the Bulgarian economy is a chronic deficit in foreign trade. Orientation to the West and the loss of the traditional market former USSR determined the geographical structure of foreign trade. The predominant part (65.6%) of its turnover in 2002 was in the OECD countries, incl. 52.6% - to the EU. They sold 72.6 and 55.8% of exports, respectively, and their share in imports was 60.6 and 50.3%. The Russian Federation accounted for only 1.6% of all Bulgarian exports and 14.7% of imports (supplying mainly energy resources).

Science and culture of Bulgaria

The liberation from the Ottoman yoke opened up opportunities for the development of public education, science, and national culture. In the beginning. 20th century such centers are being established scientific research like the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences (BAN, 1911) and Sofia University (1904). Large state libraries have been established in Sofia and Plovdiv. In 1961 the Academy of Agricultural Sciences was founded, later renamed the Agricultural Academy (ASA). The Medical Academy was established in 1972.

In con. 20th century 447 organizations were engaged in research activities in Bulgaria. About half of them (46.4%) are state budget-funded scientific departments of the BAN, SSA and ministries. The main direction of their activity is fundamental research. Universities and scientific departments at universities are oriented towards scientific and applied developments, and branch institutes provide the predominant part of experimental developments. In the beginning. 2002 there were 22.3 thousand scientists in the country. Problems and difficulties of socio-economic development had a negative impact on financial support scientific research. If in 1989 2.4% of GDP was allocated for science (and each percentage was equal to 217.8 million dollars), then in 2000 0.52% of GDP was spent (the percentage is 126 million dollars). The average salary in science is lower than the national average. Bulgaria has a relatively high share (2/3 in 2001) of state participation in science spending, while industry covers no more than 30%.

AT last years the importance of external funding through participation in international scientific programs is increasing. In 2000, this provided 5.3% of the total funds for science (in 1996 - 0.25%). In the 20th century the level of education of the population was continuously raised. Since 1966, compulsory basic (8 years) education has been introduced for children between the ages of 7 and 16. Secondary education provides instruction in general education schools or in vocational schools, technical schools, and vocational gymnasiums. Specialists with higher education are trained in colleges, universities and specialized institutes. There is a process of harmonization of the regulatory framework for education and science with the current one in the EU.

In 2000, in total, St. 3.5 thousand educational institutions and studied approx. 1.3 million students. Specialists with higher education were trained by 48 colleges and 42 universities and specialized institutes. Since 1992 private educational establishments. More than 1/10 of all students are currently studying in private universities. In Bulgaria, the level of education of the population is relatively high. Among persons over 15 years of age higher education had: bachelor, master - 9.8%; specialist - 2.3%; secondary vocational - 18%, secondary general - 26.6%, basic and lower - 43.3% (1998).

Despite the centuries-old foreign yoke, the Bulgarian people have retained their identity and culture. In con. 19 - beg. 20th century cultural centers such as the National Library, the Ivan Vazov People's Theater, and the Bulgarian Opera House arose. Folk clubs-reading rooms (chitalishta), which arose during the Ottoman rule, became original centers of culture.

There are currently 80 theaters in Bulgaria, approx. 200 cinemas, St. 7 thousand libraries, approx. 3 thousand reading places. Quite dynamically, albeit with fluctuations, is developing publishing activity. Published in 2000 large quantity books and newspapers (by titles) than in 1989, but with a smaller circulation.

Bulgaria has contributed to the treasury of world culture, literature and art. The works and skill of many Bulgarian writers and poets (A. Konstantinov, E. Pelin, H. Smirnensky, El. Bagryana), artists (An. Mitov, Iv. Myrkvichka, V. Dimitrov-Maistor, D. Uzunov), composers (Iem Manolova, P. Vladigerova and others) acquired world fame and recognition.

"NRB" redirects here, see also "NRB (disambiguation)" People's Republic of Bulgaria People's Republic of Bulgaria is a sovereign socialist state ... Wikipedia

See Bulgaria… Great Soviet Encyclopedia

IV.7.7. People's Republic of Bulgaria (partocracy) (09/15/1946 - 11/5/1991)- ⇑ … Rulers of the World

IV.7.8. Republic of Bulgaria (from 5.11.1991)- ⇑ … Rulers of the World

Republic of Bulgaria, state in the south of Europe. The name Bulgaria (Bulgaria) is derived from the name of the inhabitants of the Bulgarians. Geographical names of the world: Toponymic dictionary. M: AST. Pospelov E.M. 2001 ... Geographic Encyclopedia

The Republic of Bulgaria, a state in Eastern Europe. Bulgaria is located in the eastern part of the Balkan Peninsula. It borders in the north with Romania along the Danube, in the south with Greece and Turkey, in the west with Yugoslavia and Macedonia. In the east it is washed by ... ... Collier Encyclopedia

History of Bulgaria ... Wikipedia

BULGARIA- THE REPUBLIC OF BULGARIA A country in the southeast of Europe, located on the Balkan Peninsula (from 1946 to 1990 it was called the People's Republic of Bulgaria). In the north it borders with Romania, in the south with Turkey and Greece, in the west with Serbia and the former ... ... Cities and countries

BULGARIA- (Republic of Bulgaria; Bulg. Republic of Bulgaria), state in the Balkan Peninsula. Territory: 110994 sq. km. Capital: Sofia (1310 thousand people in 2002). The largest cities: Varna, Plovdiv, Burgas, Stara Zagora, Pleven, Shumen, Ruse. State. language: Bulgarian.… … Orthodox Encyclopedia

Books

  • The Institutional Context of Entrepreneurship in Emerging Economies: A Comparison of University Students' Perceptions in Nine Countries, R. B. Yonni. In this study, the authors compared and contrasted the perceptions of the institutional environment for entrepreneurship development by university students in nine emerging economies of three… electronic book
  • Pebble with a hole, Marcel Salimov. It happens like this: a master of laughter known not only in our country, but also far beyond its borders, winner of the international literary awards "Aleko" (Bulgaria), named after Sergei Mikhalkov (Russia) and ...

Brief information about the country

Date of Independence

Foundation date

Official language

Bulgarian

Form of government

Parliamentary republic

Territory

110,993.6 km² (102nd in the world)

Population

7 364 570 people (98th in the world)

Timezone

Largest cities

Sofia, Plovdiv, Varna, Burgas, Ruse

$101.627 billion (69th in the world)

Internet domain

Telephone code

(Bulgaria) is an actively developing original state of South-Eastern Europe with an area of ​​110,993 km². This is the place of the eternal tourist season: here the beaches with golden sand and clear water grow into the greatest mountains that occupy most of the country. Bulgaria is famous for its pleasant and healthy microclimate, beautiful landscapes and inexpensive prices. Almost all resort complexes are equipped with an all-inclusive service. The capital is the city of Sofia.

Video: Bulgaria

Basic moments

The population of the country is about 7.2 million people and the majority is represented by the Bulgarians - an extraordinary ethnic group that arose as a result of the assimilation of the legendary Thracians, Turkic-speaking tribes and southern Slavs during the Great Migration in the 4th-7th centuries AD. e. Distinctive features Bulgarian mentality - good nature, diligence, openness and hospitality, harmoniously combined with temperament, waywardness and passionate love for the Motherland. Such features in the behavior of the Bulgarians can provide a truly fascinating stay in the country: residents will not only do everything for the comfort of guests, but will also try to tell as much as possible about their history and culture.

In the south, Bulgaria borders on such titans of the tourism business as Turkey and Greece, successfully adopting their experience. Thanks to natural conditions, two diametrically opposed industries are successfully developing in the country: ski resorts and beach holidays on the golden sands of the Black Sea coast. But Bulgaria is famous not only for its excellent resorts - a significant part of the economy is agriculture. Its key industries are winemaking and tobacco growing.

Despite the deep economic crisis that lasted throughout the last decade of the 20th century, the new millennium was marked for the state by a number of successful reforms that led to a gradual improvement in the standard of living of the population. Today's Bulgaria is a prosperous republic with a market economy that boasts the most low prices in the European Union, of which it has been a member since 2007.

Cities in Bulgaria

All cities in Bulgaria

Climate

As a rule, winters in Bulgaria are quite frosty, while summers can be warm or very hot. Spring and autumn are short humid climate although there are regional differences.

What to see in Bulgaria

There are so many different kinds of attractions in Bulgaria that it is easier for travelers to first choose a city or region to visit and start from this when planning an excursion program.

Sofia

The current capital of the Republic of Bulgaria, Sofia, is one of the oldest cities in Europe, famous for its cultural monuments from various eras. This is a city that keeps up with the times, and at the same time carefully preserves its history.

Sofia streets

National cuisine of Bulgaria

Bulgarians have a fondness for a variety of meats, vegetables and herbs, and among their favorite cooking methods are long boils and stews. You need to be prepared for the fact that the traditional dishes of this cuisine are spicy and quite fatty. Those who want to get to know the local culinary traditions better should definitely taste:

  • gyuvech - meat stewed with vegetables in a clay pot;
  • meat or fish cooked on a skar (Bulgarian grill);
  • sach - fried platter of meat, vegetables or a combination thereof;
  • chorbu - rich, thick soups from different ingredients.

Bulgarian national fermented milk products deserve special attention - brynza (sirene) and, in fact, sour milk (sour milk). Cheese is added to almost all dishes of national cuisine, especially salads, stewed or baked vegetables, meat and fish. Kiselo Mlyako is a dressing for salads, a base for sauces or an independent drink, a glass of which will come in handy more than ever after a day full of impressions.

Bulgaria is a country of vineyards, so you can taste local wine in any restaurant. Also, in almost any such institution, you can try rakia - fruit vodka based on apples, grapes, apricots or peaches, or mastic - aniseed vodka.

Money of the Republic of Bulgaria

Official currency unit states - the Bulgarian lev (BNG), consisting of 100 stotinki - an analogue of our kopecks. Within the framework of the Currency Council, lev quotes are inextricably linked to the euro exchange rate (1 € = 1.95 BNG), which minimizes possible speculation at exchange offices. In mid-February 2016, 1 Bulgarian lev cost about 44 rubles, but the exchange rate will have to be clarified before traveling to the country. In everyday life, in addition to the lev, American dollars and euros are also often found, but they are not accepted everywhere, so a reasonable tourist should always have some national banknotes with him. Cashless payments are widespread only in major cities, which again speaks of the need to always carry cash with you.

Currency exchange is best done at the United Bank of Bulgaria and other official points, but in no case should you use the services of money changers, as there is a very high probability of being deceived. Rubles are not accepted at all points, therefore best option– stock up in advance with the necessary minimum of levs or euros. At the same time, it’s not worth exchanging too much money, because Bulgarian banks have a problem changing levs back to dollars, this can only be done with a limited amount when leaving the country, moreover, at an unfavorable exchange rate.

Paperwork

Applying for a visit to Bulgaria is a simple matter and, in comparison with other EU states, inexpensive. Free entry into the country is allowed for multiple Schengen holders or those who have a national visa to Romania or Cyprus. If there are none, you will have to collect a simple package of papers and spend from 3 (urgent) to 7 (regular) days to apply for a national visa to Bulgaria. Independent processing of documents through the consulate in Moscow until recently cost about 55 €, of which 35 € is a consular fee, about 20 € is a service fee, but from January 1, 2016, the consular fee has been reduced to 10 €. Children under 16 years of age receive a visa free of charge.

A detailed list of documents and the cost of their execution can be found on the official website of the Bulgarian Embassy in Moscow

Accommodation in Bulgaria

A wide selection of good cheap hotels has long been one of the main advantages of Bulgaria in the field of tourism. Bargain hunters don't have to look far for a room at a low price, while lovers of a more comfortable stay will not be disappointed either: first-class hotels in cities and beach resorts offer no less amenities than in any other country in the world.

When planning a trip to Bulgaria or any other country, it is important to take care of accommodation in advance. You can try to independently rent a room or apartment directly from the owners. But you should think about it in advance, at least a couple of months before the planned trip: Bulgaria has a crazy demand for housing, especially during the season. The choice of hotels is wide in almost all cities of the country: for every taste and budget.

In general, this is one of the cheapest tourist countries in Europe. A double room in hotels in small resort towns, such as Kranevo or Pomorie, will cost an average of 30 leva per day (about 15 euros). Accommodation in hotels of more popular resorts depends on the number of stars, for example, a double room in 4-star hotels will cost about 200 leva per day. The price of a detached house on the seashore ranges from 60-80 leva. When looking for accommodation in Bulgaria, you can use the services of trusted travel companies or our website, this will help you avoid scammers and guarantee acceptable living conditions.

In Bulgaria, there are many good cheap youth-type hotels with shared bedrooms for about 20 leva per night or even less. The best of them are busy during the high season, so advance booking is recommended.

Transport

Public transport represented by buses, trolleybuses, trams and the country's only metro line located in Sofia. Transport does not run around the clock, so the schedule must be clarified immediately before traveling to Bulgaria. Travel documents are sold at stops, at newsstands or directly from the driver. It is important not to forget to compost the tickets, otherwise you can get caught by the controller and then you will have to pay a fine of 1 lev.

If you have an international driver's license, you can rent a car. It will cost about 30-60 leva per day, but you should take into account that the roads in the country's provincial towns leave much to be desired.

Taxi

Bulgarian taxi drivers once had a reputation for real robbers. Now, thanks to legislation, all cars are metered and drivers (at least in Sofia) are required to issue checks. This does not mean that tourists are never "bred" for extra money; this happens sometimes. But if you keep your cool and always use a taxi with the name of the company (“Yellow Taxi”, tel.: 02-911-19; “Euro Taxi”, tel.: 02-910-33; “Sofia Taxi”, tel.: 02- 974-47-47; OK Supertrans, tel.: 02-973-21-21 in Sofia), the trips will be amazingly cheap. Don't expect the drivers to speak English, but you can ask the concierge at the hotel or the waiter at the restaurant to call a taxi for you.

The railway network is well developed, tickets are cheap, and trains run on time, albeit rather slowly. Even express trains with optimistic names InterCity and Expres do not live up to expectations. The fastest of the five daily trains from Sofia to Varna takes eight and a half hours. If you want to make train trips, it is better to do it at night in an inexpensive sleeping car (spalen). Buying tickets can be a time-consuming process: don't expect help from the cashiers. It is best to buy tickets at the Wasteels office, to the left of the entrance to Sofiyskiy railway station.

Bus and taxi

Bulgaria has developed intercity bus service, which is indispensable in small mountain villages and towns remote from busy highways. Traveling by this type of transport will cost a tourist an average of 9 leva per 100 km. A convenient way to get around is a taxi, which in Bulgaria is easily recognizable by the yellow color of cars and the characteristic checker.

Having spent an unforgettable vacation, you always want to please your loved ones with cute gifts and take something for yourself as a memory of a pleasant vacation. Fortunately, the choice of souvenirs in Bulgaria is very large.

With presents for the beautiful half of humanity, things are as easy as shelling pears - be sure to purchase natural Bulgarian cosmetics based on rose extracts. All kinds of creams, lotions, soaps, shampoos and much more can be found not only in the vicinity of the Rose Valley, but throughout the country. Elegantly packaged, these gifts will appeal to every woman.

Rose jam is a delicious souvenir from Bulgaria, sold in almost any grocery store. The characteristic pleasant taste will remind you of this hospitable country for a long time.

Sharena sol is a favorite seasoning of the Bulgarians, which is salt mixed with spices. It goes well with any dishes, has an unusual and aesthetic appearance.

Tablecloths, napkins, small rugs woven from the finest sheep's wool and decorated with ethnic embroidery are an excellent gift that can add zest to the interior. But for such souvenirs, you will most likely have to go to small villages at the foot of the mountains.

Wooden and ceramic dishes self made with ornate patterns will appeal to any housewife, and clay pots with thick walls are suitable for preparing stews and vegetables - perhaps even according to recipes from the Bulgarian cuisine.

Also in Bulgaria, at almost every step you can buy classic souvenirs: magnets, key rings, T-shirts, small figurines, etc. The only advice for tourists is to try not to postpone the purchase of gifts until the last day: at airports and train stations, their cost is significantly overpriced, and the choice is limited.

The customs service of Bulgaria is quite loyal, so there are no significant restrictions on the export of goods, except for the standard ban for all countries on the transport of weapons, illegal drugs or flammable substances, as well as items of historical value.

It is located in the east of the Balkan Peninsula and has an extensive Black Sea coast. Bulgaria is famous for its Black Sea and ski resorts. This is a country that is ready to receive tourists all year round.

In summer, vacationers have at their disposal luxurious beaches with golden sand and landscaped areas, in winter - ski resorts with slopes of varying difficulty and plenty of opportunities for active pastime. Thanks to the refreshing breeze from the sea, holidays in Bulgaria in the summer will not be a test of heat for you: the air temperature in summer months is in the range from 23 to 30 degrees. Clean and wide sandy beaches, a smooth and evenly lowering seabed, the absence of dangerous sea inhabitants in the water - these are the advantages of Bulgarian resorts.

Compared to European hotels, hotels in Bulgaria are distinguished by affordable prices and at the same time demonstrate first-class service and cuisine. Bulgarian resorts have always attracted lovers of summer and winter holidays.

Square: 110,993.6 sq. km.
Capital: Sofia.

Population: 9 million people (except for the main part of the Bulgarian population - 85%, ethnic Turks live here - 10%, Armenians, Greeks and representatives of other nationalities).

Time: behind Moscow time by 1 hour.

Currency: Bulgarian lev (BGL); 1 lev = 100 stotinki. Currently in circulation are coins in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 stotinki, 1 lev and banknotes in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 leva.

The Bulgarian lev is exchangeable for all freely convertible currencies, however, it is preferable to take euros or US dollars with you. (1 euro ~ 1.93 leva; 1 $ ~ 1.45 leva).

It is best to make an exchange in banks or in exchange offices located directly in hotels. Banks are usually open from 9.00 to 12.00 and from 13.00 to 17.00 on weekdays. Some bank branches in the resorts are open until 21.00-22.00, as well as on weekends.

Language: the official one is Bulgarian. The basis of writing is Cyrillic. resort staff, tourist centers and hotels speaks Russian, English, German, French.

Religion: the Bulgarian Orthodox Church prevails - 87%, Islam - 12%.

Tips: tipping to waiters in restaurants and bars is 10% of total amount order (unless, of course, the service surcharge was not included in your bill), porters at the hotel or at the airport - 1-2 leva, taxi drivers round the bill up. Bargaining is quite appropriate in souvenir shops and public markets. All payments in Bulgaria are made only in local currency.

Holidays: 1st of January - New Year; March 3 - Day of the Liberation of Bulgaria from the Ottoman yoke; May 1 - Labor Day; May 6 - Day of Courage and the Bulgarian Army; May 24 - Day of Bulgarian Literature and Culture; September 6 - Day of the Unification of Bulgaria; September 22 - Independence Day of Bulgaria; December 25, 26 - Christmas.

Visa(required documents): passport with the personal signature of the owner, valid for three months after the end of the trip; photocopy of the first page of the passport; dressed color photo 3.5×4.5 cm on a light background; questionnaire with the personal signature of the tourist.

For children, a photocopy of the birth certificate. Children under 6 years of age receive a visa free of charge. Children under 18 traveling with one parent (without parents) will need a copy of a notarized permission from the other parent(s) for the embassy.

The term for issuing a regular visa is 5-7 working days, urgent - 3 working days. Registration is carried out through our company.
Transport: in the cities of the country there are buses, trolleybuses and fixed-route taxis, and in Sofia the main mode of transport is trams. The cost of a single ticket ranges from 2 BGL per day, a weekly pass costs about 10 BGL, for a month - 37 BGL. Tickets can be bought at kiosks or from the driver.

Taxis in Bulgaria are yellow with traditional “checkers”, a price list with prices should be fixed on the side glass, often you can even get a check from the driver.

Rent a car: you can rent a car in Bulgaria if you have an international driving license. The driver must be at least 23 years old, with a driving experience of 2 years.

Climate: in most of the country the climate is temperate continental, mild and suitable for travel in all seasons. To the south - goes into the Mediterranean. The resorts of Bulgaria in the spring-summer and autumn months are characterized by warm mild weather with a long swimming season from May to October. The average air temperature in May is +20°C, in June and September - +25°C, in July and August - +26-28°C.

Hotels: these are the best hotels in Black Sea coast. First-class service, magnificent pools, casinos, restaurants and gyms.

Beaches: in Bulgaria, the beaches are free and belong to the city, but umbrellas and sunbeds are paid extra. The estimated cost of renting an umbrella per day is 6-10 euros and renting a sunbed per day is 2-5 euros, depending on the resort.

The ski season in Bulgaria lasts from early December to mid-April. It attracts tourists high level preparation of tracks, a modern system of lifts and ski schools with attentive, Russian-speaking instructors.

The main, most famous and popular ski resorts in Bulgaria are Bansko, Borovets, Pamporovo.

The ski resorts in Bulgaria are constantly updating the hotel base and mountain infrastructure. New tracks are being built, modern lifts manufactured by Western companies are being installed. Compared to the ski resorts of Austria, France, Italy, Switzerland, the ski resorts of Bulgaria have a smaller total length of slopes, slopes of medium and low complexity prevail,
which is suitable for beginner skiers and snowboarders, for skiers of an average level of training.

Treatment in Bulgaria: It is preferable to combine rest with treatment. Inexpensive and effective treatment in Bulgaria will make you feel great throughout the next year.

Bulgaria is known for its balneological resorts. There are more than two hundred and fifty hydrothermal deposits here, and the number of springs with mineral water approaching a thousand.

The use of sea and mineral waters, therapeutic mud, seaweed, medicinal plants can successfully treat diseases of the cardiovascular, genitourinary, nervous system, gynecological diseases, respiratory organs, musculoskeletal system, and so on.

National cuisine: one of distinctive features Bulgaria is its national cuisine. This is a paradise for those people who are "on a diet". And all because it is dominated by fruits and vegetables in various types of cooking. However, gourmets will not have to starve here either. Excellent meat dishes, seafood and dairy products always find their customers here.

The predominant method of heat treatment is quenching. food in Bulgarian cuisine it is customary to flavor with various spices and seasonings, so vinegar, spicy tomato sauces, red and black pepper.

Of the first courses, chicken broth with egg yolk, vegetable soup with pasta, zucchini soup, pork soup with apples, chorba, lamb soup, kharcho soup, pickle, mashed soups from various vegetables and meat products and tarators are very popular. (cold soups with sour milk).

Of the second courses, lamb, veal and pork with cabbage are common, pork chops, kebab, steaks, fillets, kebabs and lamb stew, gouvechi - dishes from meat, rice and vegetables, plakia - dishes from vegetables, onions, garlic and seasonings stewed with vegetable oil, yakhnia - stew with vegetables and onions or only vegetables with onions, kebabs - pieces of meat fried on a spit, and of course, kebapcheta - short minced meat sausages grilled over hot coals deciduous trees, pigeons, stuffed tomatoes and zucchini, omelettes.

Separately, salads (from tomatoes, cucumbers, eggplants, sweet peppers, green beans, green salad) are served separately for the second meat dishes. A significant place in Bulgarian cuisine is given to vegetable salads from potatoes, tomatoes, onions, capsicum, eggplant, green beans, white and red beans, cauliflower, celery and apples, brains, snails, lamb and veal legs. great success in Bulgaria, simple and delicious snacks from eggs, as well as labor-intensive snacks from fish, poultry and game, meat products. All kinds of pickles, canned vegetables and fruits are traditional snacks.

Telephone communications: you can call another country or city from any pay phone using calling cards, which are sold in post offices, newsstands and in large hotels. A call from the post office will cost less than from a hotel.

Customs: import and export of foreign currency is not limited (the declaration is obligatory), import and export of national currency is prohibited. Unused levs can be exchanged before leaving the country. To do this, you must submit a certificate of the initial exchange from the exchange office. Duty-free import of 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars, 250 g of tobacco products, 1 liter of spirits or 2 liters of wine, 50 g of coffee, 100 g of tea, 50 ml of perfume, 250 ml of cologne or other perfume products is allowed. The import is prohibited canned food nutrition. It is not allowed to import and export objects and things of historical, artistic or archaeological value without a special permit. Jewelry, video cameras, computers and other valuable items are subject to declaration.

Phones:
Ambulance 150
Police 166

Representation of the Russian Federation: Embassy of Russia - Sofia, bul. Dragan Tsangov, 28 - tel. (359-2) 9634458, 9630912, 9634021, fax (359-2) 9634116.

Geography of Bulgaria

Bulgaria is a state in the southeast of Europe, located on the Balkan Peninsula, in its eastern part. Bulgaria is washed by the Black Sea. On land, the country borders Turkey, Greece, Serbia, Romania and Macedonia. The main territory of the country is occupied by mountain ranges: Sredna Gora, Stara Planina, Rhodopes, Pirin, Rila, where Mount Musala is located - the highest point of the Balkan Peninsula with a height of 2925m. In the northern part of Bulgaria there is the Lower Danube Plain, in the south - the Upper Thracian Plain, in the central part - the Kazanlak Basin. Approximately one third of the territory of Bulgaria is occupied by forests.

State structure of Bulgaria

Bulgaria is a parliamentary republic, the head of state is the president, who is elected by direct vote for 5 years.

Weather in Bulgaria

The north of Bulgaria is characterized by a temperate continental climate, the Thracian plain is steppe, and on the coast the climate is close to the Mediterranean.

In the Danube Plain, more than 600 mm of precipitation falls annually; in early summer, precipitation is more abundant. In the Thracian Plain, the drought begins already in August, there is less rainfall. 450-500mm of precipitation in Eastern Dobruja and in the Maritsa and Tundzha rivers. But in the mountainous regions (Rila, Pirin, Rhodopes and the Balkans) more than 1000 mm of precipitation falls.

Language of Bulgaria

The official language is Bulgarian.

Almost everywhere you can explain yourself in Russian. German, English, and French are also quite common.

Religion in Bulgaria

Most of the population of Bulgaria, approximately 85% - Orthodox Christians, about 12% - Sunni Muslims. The country has 0.8% Jews and 0.5% Protestants and Catholics each.

Currency of Bulgaria

The monetary unit of Bulgaria is the lev, in one lev there are 100 stotinki.

Customs restrictions in Bulgaria

It is allowed to import into Bulgaria without paying duties 50 cigars or 200 cigarettes, wine (2 liters), or 1 liter of strong alcoholic drink, you can also import gifts and souvenirs in a reasonable amount, you can import foreign currency without restrictions. You just need to remember that if you import currency in excess of 10,000 US dollars, you need to fill out a customs declaration. You also need to declare video cameras, computers, jewelry and other expensive items.

When exporting valuables from Bulgaria, they must be included in the customs declaration. Foreign currency in the amount of less than 1,000 US dollars can be exported without providing documents, the amount from 1,000 to 10,000 dollars is entered in the declaration. In the event that a currency exceeding $ 10,000 is exported from the country, papers must be provided that explain the origin of the money.

National features of Bulgaria

Traditions

One of the distinguishing features of the Bulgarians is the way they express their agreement or disagreement. In contrast to the nod of the head in agreement accepted in Russia, the inhabitants of Bulgaria shake their heads, and in case of a negative answer, they nod.

Tips

As a rule, the restaurant bill includes the cost of service. If the tip is not included in the bill, then it is customary to leave a tip of about 10-15% of the amount on the bill. In a hairdresser and in a taxi, 10% of the total amount on the bill is left for tea. At the hotel, you can leave the amount in leva, equivalent to a dollar, for tea.

Office Hours

On weekdays, shops are open from 10 am to 8 pm, on Saturdays from 8 am to 2 pm. Banks are open from Monday to Friday from 8:00 to 11:30, then a break until 14:00 and continue to work until 18:00; on Saturdays, customers are expected in banks from 8:30 to 11:30.

Mains voltage:

220V

Code of the country:

+359

First level geographic domain name:

.bg

Emergency Phones:

Police - 166
Ambulance - 150
Fire protection - 160
Roadside Assistance - 146

Representative offices of Bulgaria in Russia:

consulate-General

Address: Moscow, 119590 Moscow, Mosfilmovskaya 66
phone: 143-67-00
fax: 232-33-02
www.bulgaria.ru