10 fun and interesting Bulgaria facts

1. Bulgarians Make Incredible Contributions to Technology

Bulgarians have made some incredible contributions to the world of technology. In fact, the very first electronic computer, car air bag, and digital watch were all invented by Bulgarians. This is a remarkable feat, considering the fact that these inventions have had a huge impact on the way we live our lives today. From the way we communicate to the way we travel, these inventions have revolutionized the way we interact with the world around us.

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2. Bulgaria's Unique Yoghurt is a Staple in their Diet

Bulgaria is renowned for its unique yoghurt, which is made with the Lactobacillus Bulgaris bacterium. This bacterium is only found in the air of Bulgaria, and is what gives the yoghurt its distinct consistency and flavor. Bulgarians have long believed that consuming this yoghurt is the secret to their longevity, and it is a staple in their diet.

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3. Bulgaria's Rila Monastery Home to World-Renowned Rafail's Cross

The Rila Monastery, located in the Rila Mountains of Bulgaria, is home to the world-renowned Rafail's Cross. This intricately carved wooden cross, measuring 18x43cms, was crafted by a monk over the course of 12 years. It is adorned with over 1,500 miniature figurines, the smallest of which is as small as a grain of rice. This remarkable feat of craftsmanship is a testament to the skill and dedication of the monk who created it.

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4. Bulgaria's Unique Currency: The Lev

As a member of the European Union, Bulgaria has the unique distinction of being the only country to use its own currency, the lev, instead of the euro. The lev has been in circulation since 1881 and is pegged to the euro at a rate of 1.95583 leva to 1 euro. The lev is divided into 100 stotinki and is available in coins and banknotes.

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5. Bulgaria's Eiffel Tower replica is a beautiful sight

Bulgaria's Golden Sands resort is home to an impressive replica of the iconic Eiffel Tower. Standing at an impressive 30 metres tall, the replica is a faithful recreation of the original, right down to the intricate latticework of the tower's structure. Visitors to the resort can take in the stunning views from the top of the tower, or simply admire its beauty from the ground.

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6. Europe's Hottest Spring: 103.8 degrees centigrade in Bulgaria

Bulgaria is home to Europe's hottest spring, located in the village of Separeva Banya. The water temperature here is an incredible 103.8 degrees centigrade, making it one of the hottest springs in the world. This thermal spring is a popular destination for tourists, who come to enjoy the healing properties of the hot water and the stunning natural scenery of the surrounding area.

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7. Bulgaria's Unique Communication Style

In Bulgaria, people have a unique way of communicating. Instead of nodding their heads to indicate a "yes", they shake their heads, and instead of shaking their heads to indicate a "no", they nod. This is a custom that has been passed down through generations and is still practiced today. It can be confusing for visitors to the country, but it is an important part of the culture and should be respected.

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8. Bulgaria's wildlife has suffered greatly

Bulgaria's wildlife has suffered greatly over the years, with the last lion being killed during the campaign launched by Xerxes the Persian king in the 5th century BC. More recently, in 1941, the last lynx in the country was shot down in the Rila Mountains, a mountain range located in the southwestern part of the country. This has had a devastating effect on the country's biodiversity, with many species now extinct or endangered.

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9. 600-Kilogram Bear Shot Down in Bulgaria

In 1936, a remarkable event occurred in the Rila Mountains of Bulgaria - Europe's largest bear was shot down near the Brevets resort. This impressive animal weighed in at a staggering 600 kilograms and was a sight to behold. The bear was a symbol of the wild beauty of the Rila Mountains, and its death was a tragedy for the local community. The bear's death was a reminder of the fragility of nature and the importance of preserving the environment.

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10. Bulgaria's Black Sea Seals

The Black Sea capes of Masslen and Kaliakra are home to one of the rarest animal species on earth, the Black Sea Seal. This species is so endangered that only 5-6 of these seals are known to be alive today, making them a precious sight to behold. These seals are a unique species, and their presence in Bulgaria is a reminder of the importance of preserving the environment and its wildlife.