Bulgaria

Bulgaria is a country in southeastern Europe on the Black Sea. It is one of the oldest countries in Europe. Bulgaria is famous for its rose oil, yogurt, and ancient Thracian treasures.

Land and People

About 7 million people live in Bulgaria. The capital is Sofia. Bulgaria has Black Sea beaches, the Balkan Mountains, and the Valley of Roses. Ancient Thracians lived here thousands of years before the Romans.

Shiny golden wreath once worn by an ancient king.
Shiny golden wreath once worn by an ancient king. (Ann Wuyts / Wikimedia Commons)

Culture and Fun Facts

Bulgaria produces most of the world's rose oil used in perfumes. Bulgarian yogurt is famous and has special healthy bacteria. When Bulgarians nod their head, it means no, and shaking their head means yes, the opposite of most countries!

Fun Facts

  • In Bulgaria, shaking your head means yes and nodding means no.
  • Bulgaria produces about 85 percent of the world's rose oil.
  • Bulgaria has been a country since 681 AD, making it one of the oldest in Europe.

Did You Know?

In Bulgaria, people shake their head to mean yes and nod to mean no. This is the opposite of what most people do around the world. It can be very confusing for visitors who do not know about this tradition!