Member States of the EU

Bulgaria

Year of EU entry: 2007
Political system: Republic
Capital city: Sofia
Total area: 111 910 km²
Population: 7.6 million
Currency: lev
Listen to the official EU language:
Bulgarian

Detailed map - click on the map

Located in the heart of the Balkans, Bulgaria offers a highly diverse landscape: the north is dominated by the vast lowlands of the Danube and the south by the highlands and elevated plains. In the east, the Black Sea coast attracts tourists all year round.

Founded in 681, Bulgaria is one of the oldest states in Europe. Its history is marked by its location near Europe’s frontier with Asia. Some 85% of the population are Orthodox Christians and 13% Muslims. Around 10% of the population are of Turkish origin while 3% are Roma. Similarly, its traditional dishes are a mixture of east and west. The most famous Bulgarian food must be yoghurt, with its reputed gift of longevity for those who consume it regularly.

Rila monastery The Bulgarian National Assembly (a single chamber parliament) consists of 240 members who are elected for a four-year period.

Bulgaria’s main exports are light industrial products, foods and wines, which are successfully competing on European markets.

Fans of folk music will be familiar with a number of Bulgarian musicians. A Bulgarian folk song was included on the Voyager Golden Record which was sent into outer space by NASA. Famous Bulgarians include philosopher Julia Kristeva, Elias Canetti, Nobel Prize winner for literature in 1981, and Christo Javachev (“Christo”), the creator of many unorthodox outdoor sculptures.

National public administration portal
The official website of the Bulgarian Government provides general information on the country’s geography, history and economy. The website also features special sections with the profiles of the Prime Minister and members of the Government as well as a database of speeches by the Prime Minister. Various public information documents can also be downloaded.
Introduction to the country
Bulgaria’s travel website contains a wide range of general information about the country including its structure and institutions as well as Bulgarian history, geography, traditions and culture. Many tips on Bulgarian tourist destinations and main attractions are also available. One of its special features is the interactive map, allowing visitors to search for interesting activities and attractions by region.