All About Bulgaria

A closer look at Bulgaria and what it has to offer

Located on the western side of the Black Sea and north of Greece and Turkey, Bulgaria offers an excellent example of Eastern European culture, cuisine, and scenery. The language is a unique mix of Serbian, Russian, and Turkish, but many Bulgarians can speak English. Mostly, the Bulgarians are a friendly group who are happy to get to know newcomers.

Bulgaria tends to be cool, rainy in the winter, and hot in the summer. Summers rarely become humid, however, which makes for enjoyable weather. Dense forests, sandy beaches, fascinating architecture, and some of the least expensive trains in Europe provide the traveller with plenty to experience.

In 681 A.D., only three European states existed: The Western Roman Empire, the Byzantium, and Bulgaria. Bulgaria’s earliest roots show that an Asian Turkic tribe joined forces with a Slavic tribe. The tribes created the state of Bulgaria, and the area thrived for many centuries. In the 14th century, the Byzantium finally met with success in taking over the area. It would be five centuries before half of Bulgaria regained their independence. In 1908, the remaining half of Bulgaria became independent.

During World War II, Bulgaria was occupied by Russian forces. They became part of the People’s Republic in 1946. It would be almost fifty years before the Communist regime was brought to an end. Bulgaria became its own country once again, joining NATO in 2004.

There are many festivals held annually in Bulgaria. Two of the biggest happens every March and May/June. On March 1, the Bulgarians give out red and white tassel-like items that are meant to represent the “birth” of spring. The red and white tassels, called martenitsas, symbolize the renewal of health and happiness.