homemaking friendsworld infoglobal etiquette
Offical name
Republic of Bulgaria
Capital
Sofia
Government type
parliamentary democracy
Language
Bulgarian
Area
110,910 sq km
Population
7,385,367 ( 2006 est.)
Currency
lev (BGL)
Religion
Bulgarian Orthodox,Muslim
Time zone
GMT/UTC +2 ()
Country dialing code
359
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Having one of the oldest histories in Europe, Bulgaria is an Eastern European country established in the 7th century. It is assumed that people lived in the area even before the country was established, and the Kazanlak and Svechtari Tombs back up this assumption. Made by the ancient Thracians, these tombs were each appointed as UNESCO’s World heritage in 1979 and 1985. Meanwhile, the Rose Valley located in Kazanlak is famous for producing more than 70% of the rose oil traded in the world’s market. The quality of the rose oil produced in this area is extraordinary. Every June, the Rose Festival is opened in the Rose Valley, and the ‘Queen Rose’ is selected. Bulgaria is one of the largest wine exporters in the world. The country is also the origin of yogurt, which is enjoyed worldwide for its health-improving properties. Some famous talents from Bulgaria include the winner of the Nobel Prize for Literature Elias Canetti (1905~94), artist Javacheff Christo (1935~) and philosopher Julia Kristeva (1941~).
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