Although the history of Bulgaria is closely connected with Turkish influence, cultural roots date back to the days of the Roman Empire. At that time, today’s territory of Bulgaria became a Roman province. Bulgaria was founded in the 7th century. Part of the residents were Slavic, and part came from Asia.

In the 11th century Bulgaria was conquered by Byzantium, and from the late 14th century it belonged to Turks throughout five centuries. Perhaps due to this fact, Bulgaria didn’t build any castles during the Middle Ages, just like in Central Europe. The resistance against Turkish domination culminated in the early 20th century, when Bulgaria became independent. However they didn’t enjoy the independence for a long time and before 1 World War II it was merged with neighboring countries against Turkey. After inappropriate policy Bulgaria has lost part of its territory in a dispute with its allies. After World War I and later after World War II, Bulgaria again had to give up other parts of its territory. The inclusion of Bulgaria into Eastern Bloc meant to stop economic development. Just the revolutionary period in the late of 20th century enabled the reforms and reorientation. Today Bulgaria is one of the leading tourist destination countries.

Further information:

Official name: Republic of Bulgaria
Capital city: Sofia
Area: 110.910 km2
Number of residents: 7.537.929
Density: 74 people per km2
Time zone: GMT + 2 h (+ 3 h in summer)
Currency: lev (Lv)
Official language: Bulgarian
Water area: 360 km2
Land area: 110550 km2
Board lengths: 1808 km
Coast lengths: 354 km
Neighbours: Romania, Serbia, Republic of Macedonia, Greece, Turkey
Average age of man: 70
Average age of woman: 76
Ethnic group: Roma
Religion: Orthodox 30%, Muslim 7%, Atheists 60%
GDP per person: 1510 $
The highest mountain: Musala – 2.925m above the sea level
The lowest point: Black sea
The longest river: Marica (526 km)
Biggest city: Sofia (1.125.000 people)
Ports: Burgas, Lom, Nesebur, Ruse, Varna, Vidin

Why visit Bulgaria?
- Bulgaria is an interesting country that has everything: sea, sandy beaches, quaint historic towns, cultural and architectural attractions, old monasteries, modern resorts, high mountain… In Bulgaria, everyone can find something interesting, whether you like to relax by the sea, discover the historical treasures, walk through the picturesque streets of coastal towns or mountain hiking.
- Bulgaria is cheaper than Croatia, France, Italy, Spain and other traditional tourist destinations.
- In Bulgaria you can taste various dishes typical for Bulgaria (Shopska salad, kaškaval, Moussaka and many others)

View Bulgaria – country of roses in a larger map

The post Bulgaria – country of roses appeared first on Europe Explored.

Official language is Greek, which used Greek alphabet. It is the oldest still in use alphabet in Europe (since the 8th century BC). Majority of Greeks speak also English and German.

If you love nature and do not like excessive heat, the ideal time for you to visit Greece is June (or May, but the sea is still quite cold) or September and October. The water temperature is pleasant and it is also possible to plan your trips and hiking. However the main tourist season in Greece is July and August.

Greek cuisine
Greek cuisine is typically Mediterranean, and famous worldwide. The food must not miss olive oil, fresh vegetables, fragrant herbs and seafood. Greek Restaurants are called taverns.

Hors-d’oeuvre
Everyone will certainly be surprised by a number of appetizers, which mostly consists of various salads, spreads or light sauces. The most famous are the tzatziki appetizer, or roasted peppers. Tzatziki is a spread made ​​of thick Greek yogurt, which is often from sheep’s milk, shredded cucumbers, garlic, olive oil and salt. Tzatziki spread is usually served chilled with Arab bread or as a flavoring for food. Greek salads of fresh vegetables are excellent. Another interesting appetizer is dolmades, which are young leaves of cabbage, filled by rice, pine nuts and minced meat.

Main Dishes
Very popular local delicacy is gyros. Another popular delicacy is grilled souvlaki. If you do not like gilled meat, be sure to taste musaka. Muska are slices of eggplant baked with minced lamb, onions, tomatoes which is covered with béchamel sauce. Among the most popular vegetarian dishes you can find saganaki, which is a fried slice of feta cheese coated in bread crumbs.

Desserts
After the meal it is definitely a good idea to taste some desserts such as baklava, galaktoboureko.

Alcohol
Greece offers a wide range of delicious wines. Greek favorite drink is Metaxa, which is a good cognac. The local traditional drinks include Ouzo.

Greek Islands
Greek Islands, which are more than 2000, will welcome you with their unique culture (pure white houses with blue shutters and roofs), its history and pure nature, remote from the industry.

The most famous islands of Greece include Corfu, Lefkada, Kefalonia, Zakynthos, Crete, Santorini, Mykonos, Rhodos, Samos, Kos, Lesbos.

Greek cities
Among the most important and best Greek cities you can find such as Athens, Thessaloniki, Kavala, Patras, Sparta, Heraklion and Corinth.

The post Greece – Metaxa and olives appeared first on Europe Explored.