Biographies 

Information about Bulgaria. State structure of Bulgaria. listen to the anthem of Bulgaria

Bulgaria(Bulgaria) - a state in the southeastern part of Europe, located on the Balkan Peninsula. Republic of Bulgaria- a hospitable country that hosts tourists around. The country is distinguished by affordable recreation (compared to other European countries), while demonstrating first-class service in all its manifestations. Bulgaria are ski resorts with pistes different levels difficulties, these are the golden sands of the Black Sea coast, this is wonderful nature and medical resorts.

Bulgaria is a country golden sands»

1. Capital

Capital of Bulgaria- ancient city Sofia(Sofia City), whose history spans more than one thousand years. The capital inherited its name from the main attraction - the cathedral Hagia Sophia. Sofia is located in the western part Bulgaria, at the foot of Vitosha Mountain. Sofia- these are monuments of history and architecture, magnificent mountain nature and green city parks, large shopping and entertainment centers and hotels, ski resorts and mineral springs.

2. Flag

Flag of Bulgaria (Flag of Bulgaria) - a rectangular panel with an aspect ratio of 2: 3, consisting of three horizontal, equal in width stripes: white (top), green (intermediate) and red (bottom). The white stripe is the personification of peace and freedom; green stripe natural resources Bulgaria, and green is also considered the traditional color of Bulgarian kings; the red stripe is the blood of the Bulgarians shed in the battles for state independence.

3. Coat of arms

Coat of arms of Bulgaria (Coat of arms of Bulgaria) is a garnet-colored shield depicting a lion standing on its hind legs, which is held by two golden shield-bearing lions. The shield is located on oak branches. At the top of the composition there is a large crown of the Bulgarian kings, and at the bottom there is a ribbon with the national the motto of Bulgaria « Unity gives strength » (« Unionto rule silat»).

The lion is a symbol of courage and courage; three lions - three historical regions of the state: Moesia, Thrace and Macedonia; the pomegranate color of the shield is the blood of patriots shed in the battles for state independence; golden color is a symbol of wealth and abundance; the crown is a symbol of history; oak branches are a symbol of perseverance, and their green color is a symbol of fertility.

4. Anthem

listen to the anthem of Bulgaria

5. Currency

Official Bulgarian currency — Bulgarian lev, equal to 100 stotinki ( letter designation BGN code 975). The name lev, the currency received from the Dutch coin "leeuwendaalder", which depicted a lion. In circulation there are coins in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 stotinki and 1 lev, as well as banknotes in denominations of 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100 leva. The exchange rate of the Bulgarian currency to the ruble or any other currency can be viewed on the currency converter below:

The appearance of the coins of Bulgaria

The appearance of the banknotes of Bulgaria

6. Bulgaria on the world map

Bulgaria- a state in the southeastern part of Europe, located on the Balkan Peninsula, on the Black Sea coast, area which is 110,910 km² . Bulgaria borders: in the north - with Romania, in the south - with Turkey and Greece, in the west - with Serbia, Montenegro and Macedonia, in the east it is washed by the waters of the Black Sea. Across the sea Bulgaria has connections with Russia, Ukraine and Georgia.

There are three geographical regions in the country: the first is the Danube Plain; the second is a mountain range consisting of the Balkan and Rhodope systems; the third is the Southeast Plain. Main river countries - the Danube, which forms a natural border between Bulgaria and Romania.

7. How to get to Bulgaria?

8. What is worth seeing in Bulgaria?

- these are monasteries and churches, historical monuments and museums, national parks and reserves, hot springs and ski resorts, beautiful beaches and invigorating water parks.

And here is a small list of attractions which you should pay attention to when planning excursions to Bulgaria:

  • Aqua Planet water park in Primorsko
  • The ancient fortress of Serdika
  • Bachkovo Monastery
  • Varna Archaeological Museum
  • rose valley
  • Dragalev Monastery
  • Evksinograd
  • Stone forest in Varna
  • Banya-Bashi Mosque
  • Monastery Aladzha
  • National Art Gallery of Bulgaria
  • Saint Anastasia Island
  • Borisov Gradina Park
  • Rila Monastery
  • Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin in Varna
  • Thracian tomb in Kazanlak
  • Temple - a monument to St. Alexander Nevsky in Sofia
  • Weird rocks

9. The largest cities in Bulgaria

List of ten largest cities in Bulgaria
  • Sofia (capital of Bulgaria) - (Sofia the capital of Bulgaria)
  • Plovdiv (Plovdiv)
  • Varna
  • Burgas
  • Rousse
  • Stara Zagora
  • Pleven
  • Sliven
  • Dobrich
  • Pernik

10. Climate

The climate of Bulgaria in most of the territory - temperate continental, with a fairly clear separation of the four seasons. The Mediterranean climate dominates in the southern part of the country and in the coastal regions. The average summer temperature is +19°С +26°С, and in the most hot month- July, can reach +30°С. The water remains warm until the end of September. The average winter temperature is -1°С + 1°С, and in mountainous areas it can drop to -14°С - 16°С. The average amount of precipitation per year is 900 - 1000 mm in the highlands and 650 - 700 mm in the plains.

11. Population

Makes up 7,070,039 people (as of February 2017), of which 82% are Bulgarians, 9.5% are Turks, 4.6% are Roma, 0.3% are Russians. Also Armenians, Romanians, Ukrainians, Greeks and Jews live in the country. The average life expectancy of the local population is: men - 68 years, women - 75 years.

12. Language

State Bulgarian language – Bulgarian , it is spoken by 82% of the total population of the country. Quite common are: Turkish - 9.5%, Gypsy - 4.6% and Russian - 0.3%. Less common: Armenian, Romanian, Greek, Ukrainian, Macedonian, Tatar, Arabic and Hebrew.

13. Religion

Religion in Bulgaria. The country's constitution provides freedom of religion. Of the entire population of the country, 82% consider themselves to be believers. Of these, 85.2% are Orthodox Christians, 12.5% ​​are Muslims, 1.1% are Catholics, 0.5% are Protestants and a small part of other world religions.

14. Holidays

National holidays in Bulgaria:
  • January 1st - New Year January 6 - Epiphany
  • January 7 - Midsummer Day (in honor of John the Baptist)
  • February 14 - Valentine's Day (Valentine's Day)
  • March 3 - Day of the liberation of Bulgaria from Ottoman slavery
  • movable date in April - May - Orthodox Easter("Velikden")
  • May 1 - Labor Day
  • May 6 - Day of St. George the Victorious (Day of the Armed Forces of Bulgaria)
  • May 24 - Day of Slavic Literature and Culture
  • June 1 - International Children's Day
  • August 15 - Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
  • September 6 is the Day of the Unification of Bulgaria.
  • September 22 - Independence Day
  • December 6 - Constitution Day
  • December 24 - Christmas Eve
  • December 25 - Christmas

15. Souvenirs

Here is a small list most common souvenirs which tourists usually bring from Bulgaria:

  • fragrant spices
  • Bulgarian wines
  • wallets in the form of various animals, fruits or vegetables
  • copper coffee pots
  • natural cosmetic
  • bee products
  • crafts made of wood and ceramics
  • textile
  • jewelry and silver and gold

16. "No nail, no wand" or customs regulations

They do not restrict the import and export of currency, however, the amount over $10.000 or 7.000€ must be declared. When importing, jewelry, photo and video equipment are also declared, which in the future must be exported from the country.

Allowed:

Persons over the age of 17 may bring: 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars or 250 gr. tobacco, 1 liter of spirits (more than 22%), 2 liters of alcohol less than 22%, not more than 500 gr. coffee or 200 gr. coffee extract, 100 gr. tea or 40 gr. tea extract. As well as other goods for personal use in the amount of 175 euros per person.

Forbidden:

To Bulgaria the import of meat and dairy products (including sausages and chocolates) is prohibited. An exception is baby food and special food for people with various diseases, however, in these cases, the products must be well packaged and their weight should not exceed 2 kg. If meat and dairy products are found, they will be confiscated, and a fine will be charged from the person who carried them.
To Bulgaria the import of drugs, weapons, ammunition, explosives, potent psychotropic or poisonous substances, rare and protected animals and plants is prohibited. As well as items of historical, artistic or other value.

Plants and animals:

All animals, plants, and foods plant origin must be presented to the quarantine service. Import and export of pets is allowed only if there is a certificate of vaccination against rabies, made no earlier than 12 months and no later than 30 days before the date of entry to Bulgaria. You must also have a medical certificate for a pet, received at least 5 days before entering the country.

17. Voltage in the electrical network of Bulgaria

Mains voltage: 230 IN, at a frequency of 50 Hz. socket type: Type C, F.

18. Telephone code and domain name Bulgaria

Phone country code: +359
First level geographic domain name: .bg

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The official name of the country- Republic of Bulgaria.

Capital of Bulgaria- Sofia.

State flag consists of three horizontal stripes of equal size: white above, green in the middle, red below. The first of them personifies freedom and peace, the second - forests and agriculture, the third - the blood shed in the struggle for state independence.

Geographical position: The state in the south of Europe, on the Balkan Peninsula, is washed by the Black Sea. In the north it borders with Romania, in the south - with Turkey and Greece, in the west - with Macedonia and Serbia.

Area- 110.9 thousand km2.

Administrative-territorial division: 9 regions.

Time: Behind Moscow for 2 hours. From the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October, the clocks move forward 1 hour.

Holidays and non-working days: January 1 - New Year, March 3 - Day of liberation of Bulgaria from the Ottoman yoke, Easter (usually a week later than in Western Europe), May 1 - Labor Day, May 24 - National Day Slavic culture and writing, December 25 - Christmas.

Natural conditions: Most of the country - the mountain ranges of Stara Planina, Sredna Gora, Rila with Mount Musala (the highest point of the Balkan Peninsula, 2925 m), Pirin, Rhodopes. In the north of Bulgaria there is the Lower Danube plain, in the center - the Kazanlak basin, to the south - the vast Upper Thracian lowland. Bulgaria is famous for its oil-bearing roses, which bloom throughout the Kazanlak Valley, known as the Rose Valley. High in the mountains there are very rare and beautiful flowers - edelweiss. The varieties of Bulgarian tobacco are familiar to the whole world. The Bulgarian coastal strip stretches for 648 km. In some places it is up to 100 meters wide.

Climate: Moderate, transitional to Mediterranean in the south. On the plains, the average temperatures in January are +2...-2°C, in July +20...+25°C, on the coast - higher, and in the mountains - slightly below this level. average temperature sea ​​water in summer +21...+23°С. Precipitation falls annually from 450 mm in the plains to 1300 mm in the mountains. Thanks to the light sea breeze, there is no sweltering heat in summer.

Major rivers: Danube, Maritza. Forests occupy about 1/3 of the territory, mostly deciduous.

National parks: Vitasha, Golden Sands, Ropotamo, Steneto and others.

Currency unit: Bulgarian lev/BGL. There are 100 stotinki in 1 lev. The exchange rate fluctuates slightly: 1 EUR=1.94 BGL, 1 USD=1.42 BGL. Most favorable exchange rate exchange in banks that are open from Monday to Friday from 9:00 to 16:00 (break from 12:00 to 13:00), except weekends and holidays. Credit cards, traveler's checks and Eurocheques are not accepted everywhere, mainly in large hotels and banks.
be careful - the exchange office can offer good course exchange with a commission of 1% of the amount, which will be stated in the inscription in this "exchanger". However, an adjacent inscription (usually small and illegible) may indicate that at such a rate you can change money, starting only from a certain amount (usually quite large), and smaller amounts change at a different rate with a charge of 15% -20% of the amount exchange.

Socio-political structure: parliamentary republic. The head of state is the president. The legislature is a unicameral people's assembly.

Economy: Bulgaria is an industrial-agrarian country. Brown coal mining, electricity generation. The most developed are mechanical engineering and the food industry. Ferrous and non-ferrous metallurgy. Chemical and petrochemical, woodworking industry. Crop production predominates in the country's agriculture. Production of grain and legumes, tobacco, vegetables, fruits, grapes, essential oil crops (1st place in the world in the production and export of rose oil). Animal husbandry, fishing.

Population: 7.6 million people. Mostly Bulgarians live in the country (about 85% of the population), there is a large Turkish community (about 10%), Greeks, gypsies and other peoples make up about 5%. Urban population - 67%. Bulgarians are very friendly, welcoming, hospitable. In addition, the closeness of the language and religion of Bulgarians and Russians helps to better understand each other.

Official language: Bulgarian.

Religion: Most believers are Orthodox, there are Sunni Muslims.

National traditions: It is customary to drink red wine in the months, in the name of which there is the letter "r", and in the rest - white. Therefore, in summer, in hot weather, they drink cold white wine. If a Bulgarian shakes his head from side to side, it means "yes", and when he nods, or rather slightly raises it, it means "no".

Tourism

The Black Sea coast of Bulgaria is a popular beach tourism destination. Bulgaria was one of the most important resorts for socialist countries Of Eastern Europe. The industry experienced a downturn in the 1990s, but is now on the rise. The bulk of tourists come from Western and Eastern Europe, Scandinavia, Germany, Russia, Ukraine and the UK.

The most popular Bulgarian Black Sea resorts:
- Albena
- Golden Sands
- Riviera
- Sunny day
- St. Constantine and Helena
- Overview
- Sunny Beach
- Sozopol
- Lalov Egrek (diving)

Balneo (SPA) resorts:
- Velingrad
- Sandanski
- Hisar

Bulgaria is famous for its huge number of therapeutic and preventive procedures, thanks to which it is possible to organize effective treatment. various diseases. The best seasons for health recovery are autumn and spring. It is at this time of the year that the weather in the country favors the best result.

Ski resorts:
- Bansko
- Borovets
- Pamporovo

At the ski resorts, as well as at the Black Sea, the hotel base and mountain infrastructure are being actively updated. Modern first-class resorts are being built, new slopes are being built, modern lifts are being installed (for example, Doppelmayer). All ski resorts have snow cannons. The resorts have a small total length of slopes, slopes of medium and low complexity prevail, which makes Bulgaria inferior to popular alpine destinations. But the level of prices and quality of service are pleasantly surprising. Kindergartens and ski schools for beginner mountain climbers are also available in the country.

Connection. To call Bulgaria, you need to dial 8–10–359–phone number. Each hotel in Bulgaria has its own code for accessing the international line. To contact Russia, dial "007-city code-telephone number". A call from a room costs about 3-4 euros per 1 minute of conversation. There are usually call centers with public telephones near hotels, from which calls are somewhat cheaper. The machines use plastic cards of the same name, which you can buy at the hotel or in shops. You can use the services of local mobile operators, such as Mobitel, Vivatel, Globul, and buy mobile SIM cards. This is the cheapest form of communication.

Transport. In Bulgaria, intercity bus traffic is organized, but the buses travel at a low speed. You can use the network railways, but delays are also possible here. For convenience and saving time, it is recommended to use the services of domestic airlines. Taxis are very popular. Payment by meter (you should be careful). The cost of landing is 3-4 leva. From 20 pm to 7 am the cost is 2 times higher than the daily rate. In taxis that are not equipped with meters, it is better to agree on the price in advance.

Car rent. Persons wishing to rent a car are required to have an international driving license and be over 21 years of age. Renting a car in Sofia will cost from 40 euros per day. There are features unusual for us in the traffic rules. Since Bulgaria is a mountainous country, be careful on the roads.

The shops usually open from 9:00 to 21:00-23:00 with a lunch break from 12:00 to 14:00

What to buy. Wandering around the shops, markets and shops is best in large cities. Prices for fruits, clothes and souvenirs in resort centers are much higher. In Bulgaria, people traditionally buy embroidered clothes, linen fabrics, rugs, perfumes from the Rose Valley, handmade leather, copper and silver. In addition to sujuk (one of the traditional types of sausage), a lot of no less cute items are brought from the country as souvenirs. For example, ceramics or honey, which is specially packed for tourists in clay pots with wooden spoons attached to them. Do not deny yourself the pleasure of buying wonderful shawls and stoles, mufflers and scarves made of cashmere. You can buy silver, wicker hats and bags, stone jewelry very inexpensively. Shops in Bulgaria are open from Monday to Friday, Saturday is a short day. In the resorts, many shopping establishments are open seven days a week, some grocery stores are open around the clock.

Entertainment. All Black Sea resorts in Bulgaria have many water attractions with children's slides. Here you can enjoy swimming in the pools, you can rent a jet ski or a water bike. One of the largest water parks in the Balkans is located on Golden Sands. There is a large water park in Sunny Beach.
An interesting program for tourists was invented in wine cellars near Plovdiv. Guests of the country have a great opportunity to watch the traditional ritual that accompanies the preparation of wine, take part in it, and at the end everyone will have a tasting of this wonderful drink.
Night life. As for the evening and night programs, discos and clubs work everywhere in Bulgaria. As a rule, they open around 23:00 and are available until the morning. Incendiary music is constantly playing here. The choice of musical repertoire and discos depends only on your preferences!
Any Bulgarian seaside resort offers a very wide range of sports opportunities. Everywhere there are tennis courts, sports equipment rental centers, swimming pools and bowling centers. Some resorts also have equestrian clubs and golf courses. Football fields, volleyball and basketball courts, mini-golf, bicycles - most of this is found everywhere, as well as http://site/_admin/skins/vanilla/images/ast-male.png and much more. And since Bulgaria is also lakes, an extensive river network, canoes and kayaks are quite common here. It becomes a popular pastime, especially in spring when the water level rises after the snow melts in the mountains.

The history of Bulgaria goes back thousands of years and begins its countdown in the distant Neolithic era, when nomadic agricultural tribes moved here from the territory of Asia Minor. In the course of its history, Bulgaria more than once became a coveted trophy of conquering neighbors and visited the Thracian Odrysian kingdom, Greek Macedonia, was included in the Roman Empire, and later in Byzantium, and in the 15th century. conquered by the Ottoman Empire.
Having experienced invasions, wars, conquests, Bulgaria, nevertheless, managed to revive, finding its own nation and gaining cultural and historical self-determination.

Odrysian kingdom
By the 6th c. BC e. the territory of Bulgaria was the outskirts Ancient Greece spread along the Black Sea coast. For several centuries, on the basis of the Indo-European tribes who came from the north, a tribe of Thracians was formed here, from whom Bulgaria received its first name - Thrace (Bulgarian Thrace). Over time, the Thracians became the main population in this territory and formed their own state - the Odrysian kingdom, which united Bulgaria, Romania, northern Greece and Turkey. The kingdom became the largest urban conglomerate in Europe at that time. The cities founded by the Thracians - Serdika (modern Sofia), Eumolpiada (modern Plovdiv) - still have not lost their significance. The Thracians were an extremely developed and rich civilization, the tools and household items they created were ahead of their time in many ways (skillful metal blades, exquisite gold jewelry, four-wheeled chariots, etc.). Many mythical creatures passed to the neighbors of the Greeks from the Thracians - the god Dionysus, the princess Europe, the hero Orpheus, etc. But in 341 BC. weakened by colonial wars, the Odrysian kingdom fell under the influence of Macedonia, and in 46 AD. became part of the Roman Empire and later, in 365, Byzantium.
First Bulgarian kingdom
The first Bulgarian kingdom arose in 681 with the arrival of the Asian nomads of the Bulgars on the territory of Thrace, who were forced to leave the steppes of Ukraine and southern Russia under the onslaught of the Khazars. The resulting alliance between the local Slavic population and the nomads proved to be very successful in campaigns against Byzantium and made it possible to expand the Bulgarian kingdom by the 9th century, including Macedonia and Albania. The Bulgarian kingdom became the first Slavic state in history, and in 863 the brothers Cyril and Methodius created Slavic alphabet- Cyrillic. The adoption of Christianity by Tsar Boris in 865 made it possible to erase the boundaries between the Slavs and the Bulgars and create a single ethnic group - the Bulgarians.
Second Bulgarian Kingdom
From 1018 to 1186, the Bulgarian kingdom was again under the rule of Byzantium, and only the uprising of Asen, Peter and Kaloyan in 1187 allowed part of Bulgaria to secede. This is how the Second Bulgarian Kingdom was formed, which existed until 1396. Constant raids on the Balkan Peninsula from Ottoman Empire, which began as early as 1352, led to the fall of the Second Bulgarian Kingdom, which ceased to exist as an independent state for five long centuries.

Ottoman domination
As a result of the five hundred years of the Ottoman yoke, Bulgaria was completely ruined, the population decreased, and cities were destroyed. Already in the 15th century. all Bulgarian authorities ceased to exist, and the church lost its independence and became subordinate to the Patriarch of Constantinople.
The local Christian population was deprived of all rights and subjected to discrimination. Thus, Christians were forced to pay more taxes, did not have the right to carry weapons, every fifth son in the family was forced to serve in the Ottoman army. The Bulgarians raised uprisings more than once, wanting to stop the violence and oppression of Christians, but they were all brutally suppressed.

Bulgarian National Revival
In the 17th century the influence of the Ottoman Empire is weakening, and the country actually falls into anarchy: power is concentrated in the hands of the kurjali gangs that terrorized the country. At this time, the national movement revived, interest in the historical self-awareness of the Bulgarian people increased, a literary language was being formed, interest in their own culture was being revived, the first schools, theaters appeared, newspapers in the Bulgarian language began to be printed, etc.
Princely semi-independence
Princely rule arose after the liberation of Bulgaria from Ottoman rule as a result of the defeat of Turkey in the war with Russia (1877 - 1878) and the country's independence in 1878. In honor of this key event in the history of Bulgaria, a majestic temple was erected in the capital of Sofia in 1908 Alexander Nevsky, which has become the hallmark of not only the city, but the entire state.
According to the Treaty of San Stefano, Bulgaria was granted the vast territory of the Balkan Peninsula, which included Macedonia and northern Greece. However, under pressure from the West, instead of gaining independence, Bulgaria received broad autonomy within the Ottoman Empire and a monarchical form of government headed by the German prince Alexander, the nephew of the Russian Tsar Alexander II. Nevertheless, Bulgaria managed to reunite, as a result of which the country gained Eastern Rumelia, part of Thrace and access to the Aegean Sea. But in this composition, Bulgaria was able to exist for a short 5 years (1913-1918), after the defeat in the First World War, the country lost most of its territory.

Third Bulgarian kingdom
The third Bulgarian kingdom covers the period from 1918 to 1946. Despite the agreement signed in 1937 on "indestructible peace and sincere and eternal friendship" with Yugoslavia, during the Second World War, Bulgaria chooses Germany as its ally and introduces its troops into the territory of a neighboring country, thus supporting the German intervention. Tsar Boris's attempt to change course was unsuccessful. After his premature death, his 6 summer son Simeon II, who subsequently fled to Spain. In 1944, Soviet troops entered Bulgaria, and already in 1944-1945. the Bulgarian army begins to lead fighting against Germany and its allies in the Soviet armed forces. The further political course of Bulgaria was predetermined, in 1944 power passes to the communists under the leadership of Todor Zhivkov. In 1946, as a result of a referendum, the monarchy was liquidated, and Bulgaria proclaimed itself a republic headed by a prime minister.

Communist Bulgaria
During the communist regime, Bulgaria achieved high results in the development and modernization of industry, industrialization and collectivization. Agriculture, which allowed not only to provide the country with jobs, the latest technology, various goods and food products, but also to become major exporter. The main consumer of Bulgarian exports was, of course, the USSR. Yes, in Soviet republics industrial and textile goods, agricultural products, various canned goods, tobacco products, alcoholic beverages (cognac, beer) and the first computers were actively supplied, and Bulgarian resorts became a popular holiday destination for Soviet citizens. However, in 1989, the wave of perestroika also reached Bulgaria, and after the fall of the Berlin Wall on November 9, 1989, the communist system was overthrown, and the permanent 78-year-old leader of the Communist Party, Todor Zhivkov, was sent under arrest and later stood trial on charges of corruption and bribery.

Modern Bulgaria
Modern Bulgaria has taken a course towards the West and European integration. Thus, on March 29, 2004, the country joined NATO, and on January 1, 2007, European Union. Carrying out a comprehensive modernization, every year Bulgaria becomes more and more attractive for foreign tourists, a popular destination for summer and winter holidays. The widespread construction of new hotels, the development of infrastructure, the improvement of the quality of service and the diversification of services have allowed Bulgaria to repeatedly increase the tourist flow.
Today, the resorts of the country are modern complexes for a comfortable and eventful stay - an excellent hotel base, a variety of excursion routes, entertainment for every taste, alternative forms tourism and much more. Attractive prices, low compared to other European resorts, make holidays here affordable for a wide range of tourists - from youth companies to families with children, while luxurious 5 * hotels meet the requirements of the most demanding guests.
Despite the fact that we associate Bulgaria more with beach holiday, the country has amazing opportunities for winter tourism. Excellent ski resorts - Bansko, Borovets, Pamporovo - fascinate with the beauty of the surrounding nature, modern tracks for both amateurs and professionals, excellent opportunities for the smallest fans of ski sports, as well as for those who prefer snowboarding to skiing.
And if you still don't feel confident enough, experienced instructors are at your service. They will not only teach you all the necessary skills and abilities in a short time, but will also offer you communication in your native language. The absence of a language barrier, the commonality of cultures and Orthodox traditions make visiting the resorts of Bulgaria even more enjoyable, come and see for yourself!

The official name is the 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). The official language is 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, Stara Planina (Balkan Mountains) stretches from west to east. the highest peak them. 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.

Features of the relief and climate in different areas have led to a variety 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; mountainous regions are characterized mainly by brown forest and mountain-meadow soils.

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 coal, salt, kaolin, gypsum, marble, etc. Bulgaria is rich in springs (about 500) of mineral waters with high healing 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 In 2002, the population decreased by 11% compared to 1985. The ethnic composition of 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. Levsky, 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, the contradictions between the 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, losing the South Dobruja 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 the sudden death of Tsar Boris, the young Simeon II became his successor, 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 political forces that fought against fascism and rallied around 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 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 the national independence and 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, single state with local government. Autonomous territorial formations are not allowed in Bulgaria. Its territorial integrity is 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 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. The right to participate in the distribution of mandates at the national level are parties and coalitions that have received at least 4% of total number cast votes. 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 National Movement"Simeon the Second" (NDSV); 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 largest 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.

President appoints and dismisses senior officers armed forces. He chairs the advisory board for national security. 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 a constituent act, a 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.

IN 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 Confederation of Labor Podkrepa are playing important role in building social partnerships. 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 context of broad liberalization 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, which will require great efforts to eliminate. 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 managerial decisions that provide methods, rules and conditions for economic transformations. 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%. loading production capacity- 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. 10%. 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 Was held agrarian reform, during which the land was returned to the former owners and their heirs, which led to the emergence of a significant undersized and fragmented private property to the ground. 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 effective use land, promote market development 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 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 activities are predominantly 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 a 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. Installed fixed exchange rate leva, pegged to the euro, the emission of central bank money is due to the growth of 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 impoverished, 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 identified geographical structure 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 of scientific research as the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences (BAN, 1911) and Sofia University (1904) were formed. Major projects have been set up in Sofia and Plovdiv state libraries. 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. Their main line of business is fundamental research. Universities and scientific units at higher education institutions 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. The problems and difficulties of socio-economic development had a negative impact on the financial support of 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%.

IN last years the importance of external financing through participation in international scientific programs. In 2000, this provided 5.3% common 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 training in general education schools or in vocational schools, technical schools, 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, although with differences, publishing activity is developing. In 2000, more books and newspapers (by titles) were published than in 1989, but in 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) have gained worldwide fame and recognition.