Bulgaria - General

Bulgaria is known for being the oldest country in Europe, the origin of the Cyrillic alphabet, and the source of most of the world's rose oil. It's also the homeland of yogurt, has the highest peak on the Balkan Peninsula (Mount Musala), and its people sometimes shake their heads for "yes" and nod for "no". 

History and culture

• Oldest country: Bulgaria is considered one of the oldest countries in Europe, established in 681 AD, and is the only one to have never changed its name since its founding.
• Cyrillic alphabet: The Cyrillic script was created in the 9th century in Bulgaria by missionaries Cyril and Methodius.
• Unique customs: Bulgarians often shake their heads for "yes" and nod for "no".
• Martenitsa: On March 1st, Bulgarians exchange white and red bracelets called "Martenitsi" for good health until they see a stork or a blossoming tree.
• Baba Marta: This is the name for the holiday celebrated on March 1st, which honors the arrival of spring.
• Archaeological sites: The country ranks third in Europe for the number of valuable archaeological sites, including the Varna Necropolis, which contains the world's oldest gold treasure. 

Nature and resources

• Rose oil: Bulgaria is the world's second-largest exporter of rose oil, producing approximately 85% of the global supply for perfumes and cosmetics.
• Yogurt: The yogurt bacterium is named after Bulgaria, which is considered the homeland of yogurt.
• Mineral springs: Bulgaria has the second-highest number of natural mineral springs in Europe.
• Mount Musala: This is the highest peak on the Balkan Peninsula and is located in Bulgaria.
• Forests: Nearly one-third of the country is covered in forests. 

Notable firsts

• Varna Gold Treasure: The oldest gold treasure in the world was discovered in a burial site near Varna.
• Air-dropped bomb: The Bulgarian Air Force developed the first air-dropped bomb during the First Balkan War.
• First female military pilot: The first woman to participate in a military flight was Bulgarian Rayna Kasabova. 

Other facts

• Plovdiv: This is the second-oldest inhabited city in Europe, with a history stretching back over 7,000 years.
• Space probe: The Bulgarian folk song "Izlel e Delyu Haydutin" was included on the Voyager I space probe sent into space.
• Shopska salad: This popular Bulgarian salad won a contest for the best dish in Europe, organized by the European Parliament.
• Rakia: This traditional alcoholic beverage is made from fermented fruit like grapes or apricots.