This document provides an overview of Bulgaria, including its history, culture, and attractions. Bulgaria has existed for over 13 centuries in Europe on the Balkan peninsula. Some of its most notable sites include the capital city of Sofia with ancient monuments and modern architecture, the UNESCO World Heritage site of Nessebar on the Black Sea coast, and the 10th century Rila Monastery, one of Bulgaria's most important cultural and historical monuments. The document also describes some Bulgarian customs like the spring holiday of Martenitsa and the Kukeri ritual to scare away evil spirits around New Year.

1. This is Bulgaria

6. Situation The beautiful small country called Bulgaria has existed for more than 13 centuries in Europe . It is on the Balkan peninsula. It link s the East and the West.

7. Official symbols of Bulgaria The national flag of the Republic of Bulgaria is in three colours: white, green and red . The coat-of-arms of the Republic of Bulgaria

8. The seasons

9. Bulgaria is a one of the most visited tourist destinations in Southeast Europe . The country attracts people with its historical and cultural heritage and beautiful natural landscapes. Bulgarian cultural treasures

10. Sofia Sofia is the capital of Bulgaria. The city combines ancient monuments with modern architecture.

11. The Cathedral St. Alexander Nevski

12. The National Theatre Ivan Vazov

13. Veliko Turnovo Turnovo was the capital of Bulgaria 6 centuries ago. You can go and see the ancient fortress, the Revival complex and the modern University.

14. Plovdiv Plovdiv – the second largest city in Bulgaria dates back to Thracian times. It is situated on the two banks of the Maritsa River. Plovdiv is often called "The City of the Seven Hills".

15. Nessebar It is one of the oldest towns in Europe . On the one hand, it is a popular seaside resort. On the other hand, it is a historical place of great importance. It is included in the UNESCO list of world cultural heritage.

16. Rila Monastery The Monastery of Saint Ivan of Rila is the largest and most famous monastery in Bulgaria . Founded in the 10th century, the Rila Monastery is regarded as one of Bulgaria's most important cultural and historical monuments.

17. Belogradchik Rocks The Belogradchik Rocks are located in northwest Bulgaria near a medieval fortress . The rocks have fantastic shapes and are associated with interesting legends. They were nominated for the New Seven Wonders of the World.

18. The Valley of roses T o visit Bulgaria and not go to the Valley of Roses is the same as to go to Egypt and not see the pyramids. The Valley of Roses is in the very heart of the country .

19. Bulgarian customs Martenitsa The first day of March is a traditional holiday to sending off winter and welcoming spring. Martenitsa is a small piece of red and white yarn worn from 1 st March to the end of the month. People give martenitsa to one another with wishes for health and luck.

20. Kukeri A traditional Bulgarian ritual to scare away evil spirits .

21. Kukeri Around New Year , the kukeri walk and dance through the village s with the costumes and the sound of the bells, to provide a good harvest, health and happiness to the village during the year.

22. Bulgaria is my motherland. And this is Vratsa. Vratsa is my home town. Vratsa Vratsa Vratsa

23. Vratsa is a lovely town And friendly people. With unique nature

24. Vratsa is famous for its nature The pass Vratsata The Ledenica cave The waterfall Skaklia

25. Amazing beauty, isn’t it?

26. Thracian gold and silver treasures

27. Medieval defence towers

28. … and more examples… Monuments of famous people from the Bulgarian history

29. Goodbye and Welcome