JAAF CONFERENCE 2027

About Bulgaria

Bulgaria is one of Europe’s oldest continuous states, founded in 681 CE, and remarkably, it has never changed its name, its alphabet, or its national identity in more than thirteen centuries. Throughout the Middle Ages, Bulgaria was a powerful and respected European kingdom that did not lose a single major battle under its greatest rulers, earning a reputation for military skill and strategic diplomacy. The country became a cultural beacon as well: the Cyrillic alphabet, now used by over 300 million people worldwide, was developed in the Bulgarian cultural sphere and spread from there. Bulgaria is also home to the oldest processed gold treasure in the world—the Varna Gold, dating back to 4600–4200 BCE—showcasing the region’s deep prehistoric heritage and advanced ancient civilization.

Modern Bulgaria emerged in 1878 with a strong national revival and quickly built a modern European state while preserving its traditions, language, and cultural identity. The country’s 20th‑century achievements include scientific progress, industrial development, and world‑famous contributions to music, sports, and the arts. Since the democratic transition in 1989, Bulgaria has embraced openness and innovation, joining NATO in 2004 and the EU in 2007. Today, Bulgaria stands out for its historical continuity, beautiful nature, thriving tech sector, and welcoming people, offering foreigners a unique blend of ancient heritage and modern European energy.

Sightseeings in Bulgaria

The Rila Monastery is the largest and most famous Eastern Orthodox monastery in Bulgaria, founded in the 10th century by the hermit Saint Ivan of Rila. Located in the deep recess of the Rila Mountains, this spiritual sanctuary has stood for over a thousand years as a fortress of Bulgarian culture, language, and national identity.

Tsarevets is a majestic medieval stronghold located in Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria, serving as the primary fortress and capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire from 1185 to 1393.

The Madara Horseman (or Madara Rider) is an extraordinary early medieval rock relief carved around 710 AD into a 100-meter-high sheer limestone cliff. Located near the village of Madara in northeastern Bulgaria, it stands 23 meters above ground level and serves as a monumental symbol of the triumph, sovereignty, and divine protection of the First Bulgarian Empire. It is declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979.

Magura Cave is globally recognized as one of the most significant prehistoric monuments in Europe, famous for its earliest European solar calendar and its immense collection of post-Paleolithic rock art painted with bat guano. Located in northwestern Bulgaria, this 15-million-year-old geological wonder provides a unique multi-millennial record of human evolution, spirituality, and astronomical knowledge from 50,000 BC through the Bronze Age.

INFORMATION FOR SOFIA

Sofia is one of Europe's oldest continuously inhabited capitals, boasting a rich history that stretches back over 7,000 years

The Medieval Era (Sredets to Sofia)

• First Bulgarian Empire: In 809 AD, Khan Krum conquered the city, renaming it Sredets (meaning "middle" or "center") due to its strategic position on the trade routes.

• Byzantine Interlude: Following the collapse of the empire, the city fell under Byzantine rule between 1018 and 1185, where it was called Triaditsa.

• Second Bulgarian Empire: Reclaimed by Bulgaria in 1194, Sredets became a massive hub for trade, culture, and craftsmanship.

• The Name Change: By the late 14th century, locals began calling the city Sofia, named after the landmark 6th-century Church of St. Sophia.

Ottoman Rule (1382–1878)

• Conquest: The Ottoman Empire captured Sofia in 1382 after a grueling three-month siege.

• Administrative Hub: The city grew rapidly, becoming the capital of the massive Rumelia Eyalet, which managed Ottoman lands across the entire Balkan peninsula.

• Cultural Shift: Churches were converted into mosques, including the conversion of the St. Sophia Basilica. The Banya Bashi Mosque, built in 1566, remains a prominent structural reminder of this five-century period.

Independence and Modern Capital (1878–Present)

• The New Capital: Russian forces liberated Sofia on January 4, 1878, during the Russo-Turkish War. On April 3, 1879, Sofia was officially proclaimed the capital of the newly independent Principality of Bulgaria.

Vitosha street - the most popular street in Sofia

Ivan Vazov National Theatre

The Executive Office of the Bulgarian president is in the Presidency building, which is located on 2 Dondukov Boulevard (commonly referred to as “The yellow pavement”). The National honor guard is mounted at the entrance to the building and the sentries are changed hourly. On the first Wednesday of each month, at 12:00, you can see the official changing of the guards complete with music, battle shouting and weapon brandishing.

Vitosha street - the most popular street in Sofia

Ivan Vazov National Theatre

The building was built in 1950 during the communist period.