Bulgaria
UK residents: The capital city is Sofia. Other sizeable cities include Burgas, Rouse, Varna and Plovdiv. The currency is the Bulgarian Lev. Bulgarian is the official language, with Turkish also spoken. Bulgaria is also known for its many natural mineral spas with healing waters and mud. The country was the birthplace of the Cyrillic alphabet. SofiaThe capital city, Sofia, today a modern city, is located in the western central part of Bulgaria and surrounded by the Balkan Mountains. It is the largest city in Bulgaria and the main cultural and administrative centre. Three rivers cross the city, and it is also a place famous for its natural thermal mineral springs and spas. The city has plenty of bars, restaurants and nightlife. Attractions include the opera house, parliament building, royal palace (former), a cathedral, ancient churches, mosques and synagogues. The 10th century Boyana Church is on the UNESCO World Heritage list of protected places. There are several museums, including the Bulgarian Natural History museum and National Historical Museum, as well as art museums and galleries. Sofia also has a zoo, gardens, and large amusement park as well as public mineral baths and an outdoor market selling books. Vitosha Mountain is close to the city and open for summer outdoor activities and skiing in the winter. |