Bulgaria

The Republic of Bulgaria is a country that occupies the eastern part of the Balkan Peninsula in south-eastern Europe. Bulgaria, founded in the 7th century, is one of the oldest countries on the European continent. Historically, important routes from northern and eastern Europe to the Mediterranean basin and from western and central Europe to the Middle East intersect. Prior to the establishment of the Bulgarian state, the empires of ancient Rome, Greece and Byzantium had a strong presence, and people and goods travelled frequently across the land. The country is notable for its varied landscapes, its rugged mountains and Black Sea resorts drawing many visitors. The high number of plant and animal species in Bulgaria reflects the fact that the country is located in the vicinity of several of the major Eurasian biogeographical zones. Throughout the Pleistocene, the region's wildlife was not destroyed by glaciers advancing from the north, as in much of Europe, but was enriched by species migrating from the north, some of which are still alive today. The majority of the flora and fauna is Central European, with a mixture of Arctic and Alpine types in the high mountains. The Steppe species are most common in the north-east and south-east, while the south is dominated by sub-Mediterranean and Mediterranean species. Rila National Park is a haven for local wildlife. The park is home to about a third of all nesting birds in Bulgaria, and a third of all invertebrates. The Srebarna Nature Reserve, a freshwater lake and bird sanctuary on the Danube River, was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1983.