ISSUE MARCH/FREE

The official magazine of Radio

Bulgaria against GMOs

The Rhodope Mountain – magic, hospitality and… skiing

Borovets returns on the world ski map

WELCOME SPRING WITH A MARTENITZA!

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7 years of EU membership: What are the 4 effects for Bulgaria’s economy? Dear fellow friends of Bulgaria, 5 Bulgaria against GMOs Prices of agricultural land will continue ZOOM BULGARIA is aimed at foreign visitors to this country to rise who would be able to find here an in-depth look into the current 6 The Software University - bridging developments in Bulgaria’s economy, politics, contemporary education and business life, sports, and also insights into Bulgarian history, culture and 7 Zeus abducted Europa near Kapitan traditions. On the pages of the magazine, people would be able Andreevo to read features that are part of the daily webcasts of Radio 8 Januarius MacGahan and the Liberation Bulgaria - the world Internet program of the public media. If the of Bulgaria stories and topics in this edition appeal to you and attract your 10 Welcome Spring with a ”Martenitza” attention, http://bnr.bg/radiobulgaria is your stop on the web! 11 What’s On March 2014

Have an enjoyable read! 12 Restoration of Bulgaria’s great oak forest starts from Black-sea coast

Radoslav Yankulov, 13 Strandja – a birthday turned sour

Director General of BNR 14 Bulgaria has never produced better wines

17 Vinaria Cover photo by E. Kalanovska: Martenitsas against the backdrop of the snow-capped 18 The Rhodope Mountain – magic, peaks of the mountain hospitality and… skiing

Publisher: Radio Bulgaria/ website: bnr.bg 24 Centennial jubilee of world-famous basso email: [email protected], tel: 00359 2 9336 661 Boris Christoff

Borovets returns on the world ski map Advertising: [email protected], 26 tel: 00359 2 9336 633 How a trip gives rise to A book about 28 Bulgaria Photos: BGNES, BTA, BNR, Infotourism.net Guide to BG Design/ prepress: Dimitar Petrin 30

Issue 01/ ZOOM Bulgaria magazine 3 zoom/economy 7 years of EU membership: What are the effects for Bulgaria’s economy? by Tanya Harizanova

Which economic sectors in Bulgaria have benefited most from the country’s EU membership? “The sectors that were better prepared for the global market profited from the membership. And in the years of the crisis we see that the Bulgarian export sector is doing quite well. Those who had their eyes set only on the internal market and did not make efforts to use the opportunities of EU membership suffered to a large extent. This was because they did not take advantage of EU funds and at the same time EU regulations turned out to be too tough for them”.

We seemed to be expecting a miracle Bulgaria has received from the EU a total of 7.7 billion euro since 2000 under various programs, direct payments and funds, the statistics of the Bulgarian from EU funds. Yet what has been Central Bank show. Today we could say that changes in Bulgaria after its EU their true effect on Bulgarian accession at the beginning of 2007 have been positive. Yet, despite the support economy? received under EU funds for boosting local infrastructure for example, the EU regulations, the heavy red tape, and the competition on European markets led to “European funds were distributed among commercial wars and many companies faced bankruptcy. What has Bulgarian all ministries so that everyone could economy gained and lost from its EU membership? absorb some financing. However, there was no common goal and no long-term Macroeconomic expert Georgi Why is Bulgaria lagging behind other strategy as to the desired results. That’s Angelov talks to Radio Bulgaria’s new EU member states? why we cannot see any significant Tanya Harizanova. “I don’t think that we are lagging behind effects in the economy as no such goals other members, it is just that we are not were set. The quality of spending is what Where would Bulgaria be now if it progressing fast enough. The EU was really matters, not the quantity. In my had not joined the EU? more favourably inclined towards the opinion, EU funds were not disbursed in “In this difficult period of crisis, we new member states from Eastern Europe the most effective way possible.” should clearly realize that Bulgaria which acceded in 2004 and besides, they was extremely lucky to become part were better prepared than us. Given the What is your assessment of the past 7 of the European Union as otherwise fact that we were less prepared for this years? we might have found ourselves in the huge step, it was a real achievement for “Bulgaria did not have much luck situation of Ukraine. We managed us to join the EU in 2007. But that was regarding the exact time of its EU to become members of the EU and the time when the economic crisis started accession. During 5 out of these 7 years NATO and to make some significant and there was simply no way in which of membership we have been suffering steps towards integration at a we could receive as many benefits as from the global economic recession. comparatively favourable moment. the others. The question is whether we That is why we should not expect swift We have now access to the EU labour manage to fully use the opportunities economic changes. However, in terms market, universities, EU funding and provided by the EU. The answer here of long-term structural changes, these opportunities for development that is rather pessimistic. Companies and benefits will grow in the future. The most countries outside the bloc don’t have, businessmen do what they can but this perceptible effect of European funds is which means they lack promising is not the case with state institutions that they give us an impetus to change. prospects to cope with the effects of the and governments in power during that I think that in the next 7 years we could economic crisis quickly”. period”. catch up with other EU countries.”

4 ZOOM Bulgaria magazine/Issue 01 zoom/economy Bulgaria against GMOs in the letter to the Commissioner of Health. Bulgaria must not permit the cloning of animals or cloned-animal products on the territory of the EU, MEP Antonia Parvanova on her part has demanded. In her words, the European Commission intends to remove from meat labels any information that the meat is from the offspring of cloned animals – this is connected with the drafting of a Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership Agreement with USA. Parvanova reiterated that the EU’s intention of allowing imports of American meat from livestock raised using hormones should not be permitted. Bulgaria’s Foreign Minister Kristian Poland, Slovenia, France and Hungary. Scientific tests have shown that three Vigenin and the Foreign and European The letter goes back to the results of of the hormones in American meat affairs ministers of another 11 EU the discussions at the General Affairs cause cancer and another three – the member countries have sent a letter to Council meeting on February 11, feminization of boys aged 14 to 16. Tonio Borg, Commissioner for Health when 19 member states took a stand The 2010 legislative amendments in and Consumer Policy, urging the against permitting the cultivation of Bulgaria impose a complete ban on the European Commission to reconsider its genetically modified maize on the release of any GMO products into the draft resolution permitting the cultivation territory of the EU. “We believe that atmosphere, including such that are of genetically modified maize on the the Commission cannot ignore the permitted within the EU. Regarding territory of the EU. The letter has been legal, political and scientific concerns wheat, the Bulgarian Food Safety signed by the foreign and European raised by so many member states. The Agency states that Bulgarian bread affairs ministers of Austria, Italy, Cyprus, position of the European Parliament emphatically contains no genetically Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, is also negative”, the ministers write modified wheat. Prices of agricultural land will continue to rise The price of agricultural land in Bulgaria subsidies. AMIS studies since 1998 show pace. In 2013, the number of concluded will continue to rise, despite a 2013 a dynamic increase in both the number of transactions reached 117,727 with the decline in the number of transactions. This transactions and market prices, but also in average market price for the country being is the conclusion in an analysis of the land rent payments. 4,290 leva/Ha. This represents an increase market in 2013, published by the Ministry For the period 2010-2013 as a whole, of 4.6 per cent compared to 2012. of Agriculture and Forestry based on data an extremely active agricultural land Most deals during the period were of the Agricultural Market Information market was seen, with rising prices. At concluded in the Northwestern region System (AMIS). the beginning of the period, the average of the country - 31,267 transactions According to Prof. Svetla Buchvarova, market price for the country was 3,210 including in 3,314,860 Ha. The forecast is author of the analysis, the agricultural leva/Ha, and in 2013 a growth of 34 per that in 2014 the land market in the region land market in Bulgaria remains one of cent was reported. A significant difference will continue to intensify. The Central the most attractive and dynamic. The in the price of agricultural land in the Northern region also reports serious reasons are the implementation of the regions remains unchanged. There is activity. EU subsidies are the main factor Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) and relative stability in the lease contracts. shaping the dynamics of the agricultural the continuously growing amount of Rents are also on the rise, but at a slower land market.

Issue 01/ ZOOM Bulgaria magazine 5 zoom/news

The Software University - bridging education and business by Rumiana Tsvetkova

A revolution in the education of software before that applicants will undergo a quite responsibly that we really give a engineers and seeing Bulgaria turn into free two-month course. Svetlin Nakov’s profession in the hands of people. We the Silicon Valley of Europe - these intention is that about 5,000 people take are building a bridge. Businesses seek are the ambitious goals of Bulgarian the preparatory course each year. But well-trained software engineers, but software engineer, manager, and it will be followed by a really tough there is scarce supply. People want to entrepreneur Svetlin Nakov. The road selection process as only 15-20% of all become such, but there is no adequate to their realization is the first Software students will reach the finishing line. training so we fill this gap and there University /SoftUni/ of its kind in is such huge interest”, Svetlin Nakov Bulgaria which officially opened its “Those who complete the course of study explains his ideas. “My ambition doors on February 16. “This is the first will be really good. Our profession is not is to change Bulgaria, to change its industry-oriented university designed to easy and one need to practice for at least economy and give it a strong boost. teach students the skills most sought in 10-12 hours a day during the first year in We start with a few thousand people the labor market. Learning can be done order to progress”, he explains. in and will gradually organize in only one way, through practice. I dare courses in other cities. We will do it say that the software industry in Bulgaria SoftUni training can be attended in with volunteer teachers and with the is of world-class. This does not mean classrooms or online and is divided help of local organizations. My idea is we should stop learning. We are not the into 6 levels. Students performing best to make a revolution in the training of best. There are countries better than us. will be exempt of tuition fee and others software engineers and to enable every We have a chance to receive almost U.S. will pay fees commensurate with those person in Bulgaria who wants to learn wages in Bulgaria, and here the costs are in public and private universities in programming really do it and ensure much lower. Young people who have an Bulgaria. Even before the university their future profession and a good interest in this sector should be given the was officially launched, companies standard of living.” opportunity to try. This is an investment in the sector were already seriously in their future”, Svetlin Nakov believes. interested in partnership. So far twenty Svetlin Nakov’s previous experience firms have expressed their willingness as a trainer in programming at Telerik Statistical data speak volumes of what to be involved in the project, granting Academy indicates that 95% of the hunger for such personnel exists. In the scholarships to students in SoftUni graduates start work. Those students EU, the deficit of IT professionals could against commitment to work for them who successfully complete all levels reach the colossal figure of 900,000 after graduation. “We have planned of training at the SoftUni will receive by the end of 2015. In Bulgaria, the internships in the Silicon Valley in the a diploma attesting to the acquired shortage is of about 27,000 programmers U.S. in companies like Facebook and practical knowledge and skills. Those and software engineers. That is why Google. We already have arrangements who want to receive a certificate for enrollment in the SoftUni will be done with them, but I’d like it first to fill the higher education, however, will have to three times a year. It will be carried out needs of our domestic industry and then continue their studies for another year or through an exam in programming, but start exporting professionals. I can say two at a partner university.

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Zeus abducted Europa near Kapitan Andreevo

th “Bulgarian Archaeology 2013” National Archaeological Exhibition 7The myth of Zeus who turned into a bull and abducted Europa can be traced back seven millennia to what are today the Bulgarian lands. The story is immortalized on a pottery utensil found in Hauza locality close to Kapitan Andreevo border checkpoint during excavations conducted by Prof. Vassil Nikolov and his team in 2013. The finds also include many other depictions of the Mother Goddess – one of them is the emblem of the exhibition now on at the Museum of Archaeology. The finds are part of the annual exposition displaying the most interesting archaeological discoveries at the National Museum of Archaeology in Sofia. They are rare and even unique prehistoric objects that have changed our ideas of the most ancient periods of history in our lands. The ceramic utensil depicts a woman riding a bull – probably the Mother Goddess, revered by the ancient peoples. Her figure is unfortunately damaged, as the figure itself is broken. The vessel itself is richly ornamented. Prof. Vassil Nikolov compares the story depicted on the ancient find with the myth of Zeus and Europa. For the seventh consecutive year, the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences’ National Museum of Archaeology organizes a national forum “Bulgarian Archaeology 2013”. By a tradition it puts on show the results of the past archaeological season – some of the most interesting finds along with diverse illustrative matter. The 17 exhibits on display are very different as objects as well as chronologically and cover periods from early prehistory to the Middle Ages. They range from the continuing exploration of the caves, the prehistoric settlement mounds Kozareva and Yunatsite, the Baleya necropolis, ancient Apollonia (present-day ), to the Medieval Bulgarian capitals and Preslav. More than 40 posters illustrate the results of the work on almost ¼ of all sites explored in 2013. The exhibition is on until March 30, 2014.

Issue 01/ ZOOM Bulgaria magazine 7 zoom/history Januarius MacGahan and the Liberation of Bulgaria by Veneta Pavlova

Bulgaria marks its Skobelev’s Central Asia march, the National Day on 3 March. third Carlist war in Spain, the British On this date 136 years Arctic expedition Pandora. In 1876, ago, a peace treaty was the British Daily News sent him to signed in San Stefano Bulgaria after the bloody suppression near which put of the rebellion. MacGahan’s coverage an end to the 1877-1878 of events overturned public opinion Russo-Turkish war that in Great Britain, whose official policy liberated Bulgaria. The at that time aimed to preserve the treaty signalled the rebirth integrity of the so of the Bulgarian state after as to keep Russia away from the five centuries of Ottoman Black Sea straits. Together with domination. March 3 the American Consul-General in came after more than a , century of national revival and Russian diplomat Prince Alexey and liberation struggles, Tseretelev, he travelled in the regions culminating in the April that had risen to reveal to the world Uprising of 1876. Its brutal what he saw. He visited the places crushing put the Bulgarian where the worst of the atrocities were question on the European committed – for example Batak, a agenda. town whose population was all but wiped out by the Turkish soldiers – the One of the people to have contributed “bashibazouk”. What he saw were most to shedding light on the truth “babies that had died wondering at the about this uprising was American- bright gleam of sabres”, “an immense born journalist Januarius MacGahan. number of bodies that had been partly His career traces some of the most burnt and the charred and blackened dangerous points in the world. remains” of the people who sought He covered the Franco-Prussian refuge in the church and so on and so war, the , General forth…

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MacGahan entered into argument with Bulgarian child that cannot read and volunteers stopped the army of Suleiman British Prime Minister Disraeli about write; and, finally, the percentage of Pasha that outnumbered them many the victims of the uprising. “The great people who can read and write is as great times. And when they were left without crime in the eyes of Mr. Disraeli was in Bulgaria as in England and France.” munitions, they grabbed rocks, trees not to have killed many thousands of and the bodies of their dead comrades innocent people, but to have said there His piece on teacher Rayna and continued the fight… Soon the were 30,000 killed when there were only Popgeorgieva is particularly powerful. Western world would start calling 25,000…” The Bulgarian cause was Rayna Popgeorgieva made the flag of “Bulgaria’s Thermopylae”, on backed by William Gladstone, leader the rebels in the town of the analogy of the battle of the Spartans of the Liberal party, who published a and as people saw her on horseback against the Persian invasion of Greece. pamphlet, Bulgarian Horrors and the waving the flag of rebellion, they called MacGahan sent dispatches about the Question of the East, in an enormous her or Princess. siege of . Following the advanced circulation. A major breakthrough was MacGahan describes her as a beautiful, guard of General Skobelev who made achieved – hundreds of rallies and intelligent young woman with a the unparalleled crossing of the Balkan meetings in defence of the Bulgarians profession in enslaved Bulgaria, a match Range, impossible to pass in wintertime, were organized in Britain. to female teachers in Britain or America. he reached San Stefano and witnessed He goes on with a heart-rending there the signing of the peace treaty. It was MacGahan’s audacity and brilliant description of the tortures she was The journalist paid frequent visits to a pen that won over people’s hearts. subjected to. Thanks to pressure exerted friend who had typhoid. IIn his efforts The described the by the foreign consuls in , Rayna to help him, he himself contracted atrocities, but also the prosperity of was released and sent to Moscow. the disease and died on June 9, 1878 the Bulgarian nation, the tradesmen in Istanbul, aged 33. Later his mortal and teachers whose hands and minds After Russia started the war of remains were transported to his home helped it rise from the ashes of history. liberation in 1877, MacGahan was town New Lexington; a monument was MacGahan was particularly affectionate again dispatched to the most critical raised on the spot where he met his when describing the Bulgarian system points. He had the historical chance of death inscribed: “MacGahan – Liberator of education created by the population covering the crucial battle for the Shipka of Bulgaria.” There are monuments to on its own resources, with no help from pass in August 1877, when a handful MacGahan all over Bulgaria; streets in the government. “There is scarcely a of Russian soldiers and Bulgarian many Bulgarian towns bear his name.

Issue 01/ ZOOM Bulgaria magazine 9 zoom/traditions WELCOME SPRING WITH A ‘MARTENITZA’!

elcoming Baba Marta (Granny March) on 1st March is one of the most interesting ancient traditions in Bulgaria. WIt marks the beginning of the spring-summer season, celebrates nature’s new awakening and people’s hopes for good health and a good crop in the next 12 months. Red and white are the traditional colours for March. The ‘martenitza’ symbolises good health with red, and longevity with white, interwoven in one. The simplest of them, but also a classic, is a pair of tassels on two twisted threads – one red and one white. In the old days it was the granny who made martenitzas for the whole family, and it was considered a bad omen not to wear one on the first day of March. The superstition gave the martenitza the status of an amulet, a charm against all evil – sickness, bad luck, evil eyes and spells. Nowadays it is still worn as a talisman for good health, but seems to have become more of an ornamental item, celebrating a unique Bulgarian tradition. For centuries children traditionally wore their martenitzas on the wrist – for good health and vivacity, young girls and women would often wear a necklace of interwoven red and white threads, decorated with either a blue bead (against evil eyes) or with other small ornaments. Domestic animals and fruit trees were also decorated with a martenitza on 1st March, in the belief that this would make them fertile. The custom requires the wearing of the red-white charm until you see the first swallow, stork or a fruit tree in blossom. Another requirement in the old days was to dispose of all worn out and dirty items in the house prior to 1st March. In Bulgarian folklore March is presented as an old cantankerous lady, the so called Baba Marta (Granny March), who is angry one minute and cheerful the next. In order to keep her happy and merciful, women in the past would get up at the crack of dawn and take out something red– a piece of clothing, a belt, a scarf, or some knitting wool, leaving it under a fruit tree for at least nine days. The local custom in some towns and villages also required the celebration of the first day of March with a bonfire – people jumped over it, in the belief this would keep them healthy at all times. Now everybody gets a martenitza on 1st March – from friends and family, from colleagues at work. Young and old wear it for days on a lapel, on the wrist or as a necklace. Most of the cheerful charms are bought from shops, but it’s best to receive a martenitza handmade by a friend.

10 ZOOM Bulgaria magazine/Issue 01 zoom/calendar What’s OnMarch 2014

2 March - Shiroka Luka 15 March - Sofia International Mummers’ Lord of the Dance, Armeets Festival, called Pesponedelnik Arena Hall 15 – 30 March - Rousse 3 March - Shipka peak March Music Days National Day of the Republic of International Festival Bulgaria – 136 years since the country’s Liberation 17 – 18 March - Masquerade Games Festival 6 – 9 March - Sofia 17 March - Sofia Dance Fest – International Mummers’ Festival Dance Festival, Universiada Hall 19 –24 March - Sofia Sofia Theatre Salon 6 – 16 March - Sofia Sofia International Film Festival 21 March - Kyustendil Spring 8 – 14 March - Horizon Festival, electronic 22 March - Veliko Turnovo music City Festival – street parade, Sound and Light show 9 March - Stara Zagora Masquerade Games Festival 23 March - Sofia Metal All Stars, Armeets Arena 11 – 12 March - Hall FIS “Pamporovo Free style open” 23 March - Turya village, Pavel Banya municipality “Old men in Turya” annual masquerade games festival

25 March - Sofia National Ballet of Spain, National Palace of Culture

Issue 01/ ZOOM Bulgaria magazine 11 zoom/eco Restoration of Bulgaria’s great oak forest starts from Black-sea coast by Maria Dimitrova-Pichot

he restoration of the great helped the growth of the oak forests. respects from the traditional European Bulgarian oak forest has started We are all aware of the big challenges forest. This is due to the specific Tfrom the Bulgarian coastline the future climate change is likely to location of Bulgaria at the watershed due to a three-year-long project carried bring us. The forests, including the oak between three biogeographical zones: out by the state-run hunting reserves in ones in Bulgaria, are the only and most the Continental, the Mediterranean and and Nessebar. It was part of the secure protection against global climate the Ponto-Caspian ones. Because of EC program aimed at the preservation change. this crossroad location, the biodiversity of the biodiversity entitled Life Plus. in Bulgarian forests per acre is much The project encompasses two protected The project of the State Reserve bigger than in any other part of Europe. coastal areas - Emine-Irakli and the in Balchik is an experience which Many endemic species typical of the valley of Batova River. “These two could help the authorities raise the Balkan region only grow on Bulgarian zones are exceptionally beautiful, as funds needed for other reserves on territory. they combine the landscape of both the Bulgarian territory. The activities forests and the Black Sea. However, under the project will contribute Here are two interesting examples. The they need protection and restoration”, to the restoration of important oak wild chestnut also known as Aesculus says Associate Professor Maria habitats in Bulgaria as well as to the hippocastanum is an ornamental plant Broshtilova from the Oak Experiment development of an action plan aimed which adorns the green parks across Station at the Executive Forest Agency. at the restoration and management the world. However, few people know “The recent research and the maps of of forests. The preservation of the that this tree originated in Bulgaria the Natura 2000 network in Bulgaria genetic fund of the oak tree (Quercus and can be seen in its natural form in show that the protected zones along the robur) is a top priority for Europe. It this country alone. It was cultivated Bulgarian seacoast are in the worst state is a responsibility which goes beyond centuries ago. Since then, the tree has which is due to both climate change and the confines of a certain country or a been planted across the globe. human activity. This project will help single human life, the initiators of the us restore some 115 hectares of oak project contend. Another interesting detail concerns the habitats along the coastline. We have land of origin of the oak tree. It also collected over 10 tonnes of acorns for The oak tree in Bulgaria is a symbol of emerged on Bulgarian territory. The the purpose. life. Evidence about the great Bulgarian Strandja oak tree known as Quercus forest also known as Magna Silva hartwissiana is the ancestor of all oak We also planted 400 thousand saplings, Bulgarica, which once covered nearly tree species in Europe. We should also mainly oak trees, as well as some of its the whole territory of this country, dates mark the fact that Bulgaria is a place typical natural forest cohabitants. Most back to ancient sources. Currently it where one can still tread the untrodden of the forestation was done directly covers one-third of Bulgaria’s territory. paths of pristine forests, where there with acorns. We also did some logging Forester Hristo Nikolov says that has been no human intervention over an area of 200 hectares, which the Bulgarian forest differs in many whatsoever.

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Strandja – a birthday turned sour

by Maria Dimitrova-Pichot

trandja (a rolling mountain in first management plan for Strandja was – it affords an opportunity to build along Southeastern Bulgaria) was submitted for approval to the Ministry the entire length of the sea coast on the Sdeclared a nature park almost of Environment and Water in 2003, territory of the park and along the valleys two decades ago. This was supposed to but encountered resistance from the of the two rivers. safeguard the century-old oak forests municipalities of and Malko with a lush green carpet at its foot, the Turnovo, as it left little room, as they put “The general development plan of striking volcanic cliffs along the Black it, for construction work. The Ministry Tsarevo municipality envisages a 6.5 fold Sea coastline and the pristine landscapes then commissioned an environmental increase in the urbanized territory in Zone along the Veleka and Rezovska rivers. impact assessment of the park’s A, i.e. the beachfront and a 7 fold increase Nature conservationists marked the management plan. The new version was in Zone B,” says Toma Belev from the park’s 19th birthday on February 11 submitted to the Environment Ministry Green . “This will mean 6-7 with one more protest against the threat in 2005 but was not considered until times more urbanization than what man of its urbanization after the Supreme 2010, when Biodiversity won a lawsuit has built on this territory over the past Administrative Court gave the green against the Ministry’s indolence. In 2011 3,000 years. We are ready to contest how light to the highly controversial it finally got down to discussing the plan sustainable this development is.” general development plan of Tsarevo and once more returned it – this time Besides losing the pristine seascape municipality. The first protest of the for updating – with years having passed in the region, these urbanization plans For Nature in Bulgaria NGO coalition since it was drafted… What this bizarre for the Strandja seacoast also entail ended in its first victory – the Ministry game of ping-pong between officials and a risk of a water shortage for the of Regional Development and Public environmentalists conceals is the pressure prospective tourists and inhabitants. Works ordered that the development plan to create a park with a much more liberal Even now supplying water to the region in question be halted, as it does not have regime, allowing for construction within is a difficult job in summer. Dams will the environmental impact assessment the bounds of what is still the least probably have to be built along the rivers required by the law. urbanized strip of land on the Bulgarian Veleka and Rezovska and that in turn Black Sea coast South of Tsarevo. would dry them up. Some background information – the positive assessment given to the “What we are being pressured into is to Environmentalists are demanding that development plan by the Ministry of free land within the protected territory the authorities take steps to permanently Environment and Water was withdrawn where construction work can be planned,” guarantee the preservation of the years ago to avoid a European says Petko Tsvetkov from Biodiversity beautiful Strandja Mountain. And this Commission infringement procedure Foundation. “Another series of riders can be done once and for all not by against Bulgaria for violation of European demand exemptions in the logging regime ministerial decrees, but by amendments environmental directives. As a matter inside the park. We have endeavoured to the legislation. They are demanding of fact, 19 years after it was declared a to find mutually acceptable solutions for that the Spatial Planning Act and the nature park, Strandja does not have a sustainable development.” Black Sea Coast Spatial Planning Act management plan, indicating what can What the people who drafted the Strandja be amended so as to declare the general and what cannot be done there. The management plan are proposing is to development plan, approved without an Environment Minister tried to lay the restrict construction work to the areas environmental impact assessment null blame for this at the door of the Bulgarian around the towns and villages, excluding and void, as well as an opportunity to NGO foundation Biodiversity, which the heart of the park. But that is not how appeal the general development plan in started work on such a plan in… 1999! the Tsarevo general development plan court, in compliance with the Aarhus The truth, however, is very different. The sees the development of the municipality Convention.

Issue 01/ ZOOM Bulgaria magazine 13 zoom/wine

Bulgaria has never produced better wines by Maria Dimitrova-Pichot The challenge now is to spread this news worldwide

On February 14, according to the old-style calendar, Bulgaria marks Trifon Zarezan (Trifon the Pruner), the feast of Vine Growers and Wine Makers. On this day, men prune the vines to prepare them for the forthcoming spring. Wine has been produced and consumed on Bulgarian lands since time immemorial. The Thracians, who were the earliest inhabitants of these lands, were among the most celebrated wine-makers of antiquity. A tradition which is still alive today.

Bulgaria has never produced better wines.

This statement comes from Radoslav Radev, Chairman of the National Vine and Wine Chamber. He adds that a real revolution has occurred in this sector over the past couple of decades, financed to a great extent under the EU Common Agricultural Policy. Thus, most of the aging vineyards were renewed and the production

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technologies modernized. “We have seen of wine to the emergence of multiple great progress in the way vineyards are boutique wine-cellars. Bulgaria lost its planted and grown”, says Mr Radev. traditional markets in former communist “Lots of money was invested in modern states, however it managed to spread to technologies. Bulgarian wine now has new ones. “The sale of Bulgarian wine a completely new face. We offer a good in countries such as England, Germany, balance between price and quality, the Netherlands, Belgium and the excellent wines with a great design and Scandinavian countries reached its peak history. The challenge now is to spread in the early and mid-1990’s”, Radoslav this news successfully abroad.” Raved recalls. “Later, a sharp drop was The golden times of Bulgarian wine of marked in the wine exports to these the 1970’s and 1980’s, when Bulgaria countries, which was mainly due to the was the world’s 5th and 6th biggest aggressive penetration of wines from the exporter of wine, are not very likely to so-called “new” wine world, as even top return, the expert contends. The massive producers such as France and Italy were penetration of the “new” wine-making affected by this trend.” world - Argentina, Chile, Australia and New Zealand - has radically changed the We combine the traditions of the “old” global wine market, putting an end to wine world with plenty of zeal and the predominance of traditional wine- innovation. producers. Meanwhile, Bulgaria has lived through the turbulence of the transition “Bulgaria perpetuates the tradition of the period from planned to market economy, “old” wine world in the contemporary from large-scale production and export wine-making industry. 

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 However, this sector has acquired the innovative spirit of the wines manufactured in the so-called “new” wine world”, contends the chairman of the National Vine and Wine Chamber. Bulgarian wine-manufacturing has been gradually reviving and regaining its traditional markets, as Russia is again Bulgaria’s biggest wine market. Bulgaria has recovered its positions also on the Polish market and the traditional markets in Western Europe where Bulgaria sells less, but more expensive wines. A big opportunity for the industry recently is the chance to penetrate large and new markets such as China and India. Now the country has the chance to find planting new plots with local varieties quality. A record-high quantity of wine its niche in the global wine market with such as Mavrud, the broad-leaved (around 200 million litres) is expected home-grown grape varieties that were Melnik vine, Pamid, Gamza and Rubin to be produced this year as compared neglected over the past decades when and we are to see the results in the to 127 million litres produced in the the curiosity of the Bulgarian producers nearest future”, says Radoslav Radev. unfavourable 2012. It might be a good and consumers towards foreign grape 2013 was exceptionally favourable for idea to remember vintage 2013 well as it varieties such as Shiraz, Pinot Noir, Bulgarian wine-making as the yield is no secret good wines can be produced Melbec, was huge. “Bulgaria is currently was very rich and of an extremely high only from high-quality grapes.

PURE GOLD FROM

• SINCE 1924 • www.bsgold.bg

Bulgaria, 8200 Pomorie Bulgaria, 1404 Sofia, 83A Bulgaria blvd. tel.: +359 596 35 701, fax: +359 596 32 160 tel.: +359 2 818 97 37, fax: +359 2 818 96 82 e-mail: [email protected] e-mail: [email protected]

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Vinaria

Plovdiv, April 2-5, 2014

The city of Plovdiv will host the 22nd edition of VINARIA - the International Exhibition of Vine Growing and Wine Producing. The largest exhibition of the industry in the Balkan Peninsula is organized by the Plovdiv International Fair under the auspices of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food of the Republic of Bulgaria. VINARIA features a national wine and spirits tasting. The winners of the prestigious contest receive the Golden Rhyton prize, medals and diplomas. The most attractive side events are the Festival of Wine, the citywide Dionysus celebration and the Night of the Golden Rhyton ball where the awards of the tasting contest are presented and young professionals are initiated into the industry. A dedicated Gourmet zone intended for demonstrations of gourmet Vinaria 2014 to feature organic wines foods and beverages is designed to promote for the first time gourmet culture, related industries as well as wine . For the first time, the wine expo Vinaria 2014 in Plovdiv will feature a competition for organic wine, the Bulgarian Organic Products Association reports. A number of requirements must be observed in order to produce an organic wine. Vine growers are not allowed to use fertilizers and chemicals but only natural products and they should be certified for organic production in advance. The second step is compliance with the specific requirements of European legislation. Currently, there are only five certified organic wine producers in Bulgaria, but 90% of their production is exported abroad. Many vineyards, mostly of small producers, are now undergoing a transition to organic production.

Issue 01/ ZOOM Bulgaria magazine 17 zoom/travel The Rhodope Mountain – magic, hospitality and… skiing

Make your way to the Bulgarian and If you are booked on a charter flight, you might land in it will feel like exploring a different world. It might be new Plovdiv – the second biggest Bulgarian city. After leav- to you, but it is ancient to the world - in fact, the oldest land ing Plovdiv the road will take you to Assenovgrad and the in Europe, keeping watch over many millennia-old secrets. famous Bachkovo Monastery nearby. Just relax, enjoy the Nowadays, a visit to one of the charming mountain resorts view and before you know it, it will be upon you - the magic with great skiing opportunities can be combined with the of the Rhodopes. challenge of discovering at least a fraction of these secrets The coach is making its way up the gorge, with the Chaya and having a lot of other winter fun in the process. River in the background on one side and the ancient As- So, you have chosen Bulgaria for your skiing holiday, and senova Fortress high up in the distance behind. In front of Pamporovo in particular. It is the most popular ski-resort you, Chepelare, Pamporovo and are expecting in the Rhodope Mountains. You won’t regret your choice, you. Somewhere there, in the folds of the mountains, are on the contrary – the holiday will certainly exceed your the tiny pretty villages – a true heaven for those who prefer expectations. unconventional winter holidays and small family hotels. The transfer from Sofia Airport will take about three hours. But, let’s take a look at one place at a time.

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Shiroka Luka

If you happen to be in the region of Smolyan and Pamporovo, you simply must pay a visit to Shiroka Luka. In winter, the ethnographic village is like a postcard with its narrow snow- swept streets lined with stone houses with their picturesque verandahs and wooden doors with iron inlay. Visitors who want to go skiing have only 12 km. to travel to Pamporovo or to the neighbouring villages of Gela and Solishta which have small beginners’ ski runs. But most people come here for the well-preserved architecture and the rural tourism. Shiroka Luka was founded as a settlement in the 17th century and is now one of the most popular tourist destinations because of its National Revival period reputation that spread across the entire Pesponedelnik, is held in Shiroka architecture, musical culture, beautiful country; they were as well-known as Luka every first Sunday of the month landscapes and eventful history. The were the local singers and bag-pipe of March. On March 2, this year the village is famed for its magnificent, players, the reason why a National architectural reserve will again welcome authentic Rhodope houses, perched School of Folk Arts was set up in the guests from near and far who will marvel amphitheatrically on both sides of village. at the colourful mummer masks, bells the river. Local master builders had a An annual Mummers’ Festival, called and Rhodope bag-pipes.

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Stoikite Orehovo

In winter, Shiroka Luka is a good Wherever you go in the Rhodope starting point for winter sports Mountains, you cannot help coming fans. But they would be even more across one of the charming villages comfortable at one of the family hotels steeped in history, fresh air and in Stoikite village, some 6 km. from adventure. We chose for you the village Pamporovo right next to the six-seat of Orehovo which boasts plenty of chair lift leading up to Snezhanka peak. family hotels, where you feel as cosy Beginner skiers can opt for the easier as home. If you stay in the house run in the village centre, equipped with called “Raya” (in Bulgarian translation a ski tow. Heaven) at uncle Lubo and aunt Stefka’s, Stoikite offers a breathtaking view you will be able to tell later the story of of Chernatitsa hill and the peaks of how you slept in a real eco-house built Mourgavets, Perelik and Karluk, snug using an old Rhodope technology - the restaurants with home cooking and bricks are made of clay, straw and ... cosy family hotels. The village is a craftsmanship. Aunt Stefka is baking starting point for summer tourism “patatnik” (the local cheese and potato leading up to incredible spots up in pie) and “kiln” (the Rhodope-style the mountain – whether by banitsa with rice) and you inevitably car or trekking along overeat because everything is home- green paths such as the grown in the earth of the Rhodopes, Waterfall Canyon. As to and served with a smile. Uncle Lyubo the beauty of the Rhodopes plays the bagpipe and sings Rhodope – in winter as in summer it folk songs, and in the evening, over a is difficult to put in words – glass of rakiya, tells you lovingly of the incredible pine forests, lush mountain surroundings - a wide selection green meadows and rolling of destinations for car tourists, hiking and hills all around – a veritable cycling routes, picnics, re-enactment of fairy-tale! old customs, horse riding and walks with horse-driven carts or sleds.

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travel that road again, this time don’t the whitewashed walls and roofs with Kossovo pass it by and turn right towards the stone slabs. Kossovo was flourishing mountain. The village is situated at the end of the 19th century, a period On your way to Pamporovo, you among steep hills with pristine nature. in which most present-day houses may have passed the intersection for But the trip is very short, and only date back to. 63 of them are declared Kossovo – right after the Narechenski after a few turns you can see the first cultural monuments, including 5 of Bani spa resort. If you happen to stone houses and mountain slopes, national importance. 

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 A few years ago, the authentic winter resort of Pamporovo and the town can enjoy 22 kilometers of ski runs of beauty of the half-deserted village was of Chepelare in the Rhodope Mountain. different categories and 20 km of tracks rediscovered and most of the properties While Pamporovo enjoys huge popularity for cross country skiing and biathlon. were sold. Fortunately, during the and is visited by thousands of tourists The fans of snowboarding and sleds also renovation their architectural style has every winter, Chepelare offers rather have plenty to do, even those who dream been fully preserved and part of the family tourism at attractive prices. In the of dog sledding amidst the beautiful restored stone houses are now available last two seasons, the Chepelare-based winter landscape. All tracks are serviced for rural tourism. ski centre “Mechi Chal” has shown by ski tows and two-seat lifts. The only exemplary maintenance of the ski slopes museum of skiing in Bulgaria is right Mostovo and is attempting, through a flexible here. Chepelare is the birthplace of many computer system for lift passes, to attract champions in skiing - such as the Olympic Mostovo is located 50 km away from the young “middle class” with toddlers biathlon champion Ekaterina Dafovska. Plovdiv in an extremely beautiful setting learning to walk on skis. Accommodation and falls in the middle of the energy is found in cosy family hotels offering all triangle formed by the sanctuaries amenities, delicious food and hospitality. “Belintash”, “Karadjov Kamak” and Skiers who choose the Forest of the Cross. The name of Chepelare Mostovo comes from the natural stone bridge that was formed at the beginning of the village. Here time has completely stopped, but if what you want is maximum relaxation surrounded by peace and quiet, this is your refuge. The Old Houses complex is an area of 0.6 ha to the rocky monument “Belintash” where the ancient Thracians performed rituals to communicate with higher deities. Each house will charm you with the tale of stone, wood and traditional fabrics, and in the tavern you will be served a meal cooked following authentic Rhodope recipes. These are just some of the mountain settlements that regardless of the season in which you visit them will charge you with impressions, experiences, relaxation and memories. But there is so much more in the embrace of the tenderest Bulgarian Mountain - , Smilyan, Gela, Mostovo, ... We cannot wait to tell you more, but this will happen in one of our next issues. Keep reading Zoom Bulgaria! • For recipes of typical Rhodope local dishes, go to our section “Delicious”. Why Chepelare?

There is no better place for lovers of winter sports and sunny skies than the

22 ZOOM Bulgaria magazine/Issue 01 zoom/delicious Pod Lipite restaurant (Under the Linden restaurant)

One of the oldest restaurants in Sofia has preserved its history well, following up its tradition of offering traditional Bulgarian dishes prepared with Bulgarian products, most of which their own production. Our farm next to the village of Osoitsa is our guarantee of a different, but definitely more genuine taste! We use chosen and well selected livestock to make various dishes from the menu. The restaurant offers its guests a rich choice of lukankas (dried sausages) and soudzhoutsi (flat salami), minced meat, sausages for grilling and dry appetizers –made in the restaurant according to old recipes using selected meat from our farm and traditional Bulgarian herbs. The closed cycle, which starts from the special kinds of fodder and manner of breeding, guarantees sustainability a high quality of the animals bred and hence a high quality of the products themselves. Home-made meat and mince, yoghurt and cheese, bread and jams get our guests back to the world of their childhood memories with Grandma’s dishes. Sofia, Lozenets, ul. 1 tel.: +359 2 866 5053

“Potato dish”

Ingredients: 2 kg of potatoes, 5 tablespoons of vegetable oil, 1 cupful of milk, 1 onion, 250 gr. of white cheese, 2 eggs, 4 pastry sheets salt.

How to make it: Stuffing: peel the potatoes, grate and salt up. Add the oil, the milk, the grated onion, the cheese and the eggs. Oil the baking dish and spread with flour. Lay the 2 pastry sheets, spread the stuffing over and add the other two pastry sheets. Cook in a wood- burning preheated stove. When baked on one side, turn over to bake the other. It can also be baked without turning over. Serve with yoghurt.

Issue 01/ ZOOM Bulgaria magazine 23 zoom/music Centennial jubilee of world-famous basso

Boris Christoff by Albena Bezovska

In May 2014, we shall mark the centennial birth anniversary of Boris Christoff – one of the greatest opera singers of the 20th century. Dozens of musicians dedicate their concerts and artistic performances to the great basso whose name features on UNESCO’s calendar of events for 2014.

This centenary is also good reason to go back to the major moments in the life and artistic career of the famous singer whose inimitable stage performances have long gone down in world music history. Generously endowed with a rich and beautiful voice, he literally lives and breathes each and every role, imbuing the smallest of details of his unique artistic rendition with untold depths. He lived like a citizen of the world, but never missed a chance to offer support to Bulgarian culture, and especially its young representatives. Even though he never gave up his Bulgarian citizenship, during the times of totalitarian rule, Boris Christoff was barred from his country until 1967. Fortunately, the state changed its attitude to the world famous basso.

His professional development started out from Bulgaria. Born to a family of intellectuals, as a child he sang in the choir of the St. Alexander Nevski cathedral; later he was soloist of the Gousla male choir. In 1942, Boris Christoff left for Italy where he studied opera singing. Several years later, he was already performing on the world

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started from the International House of Music in Moscow with a triumphant concert and an interesting lecture. The Boris Christoff Music Centre will tour different countries of Europe, too. On February 28 in Rome it presented a programme with the participation of two young performers – Maria Zhekova and Alec Avenisyan as well as the last students Boris Hristov had – Plamen Beikov and Mariana Tsvetkova. The concert at the Boris Hristov Academy is under the patronage of the Bulgarian ambassador to the Vatican, Kiril Topalov.

“This was an invitation I was honoured to receive,” says opera singer Mariana Tsvetkova. “I was stages – at La Scala in Milan, at the Bulgarian state “so as to promote the so eager to revisit the place where I London Covent Garden, the opera development of young opera singers”. worked with this great man for almost houses in Rome, Venice, Naples, Today it houses a museum exposition, a year. He was my mentor in 1991. Barcelona, Lisbon, Rio de Janeiro. In organizes exhibitions and concerts. Since then I have always felt his 1986, a Bulgarian Academy of Art and Its director Dragostinova, a presence at each of my performances. Culture, bearing his name opened doors prominent music expert and journalist, He is always there in the concert in Rome. There, the great singer tutored is always ready to accompany visitors hall. And I know he is listening and young opera performers until 1992 – a to the museum and to tell them criticizing me if I haven’t put my year before his death. stories connected with this building. heart into the performance. Whether “The centennial jubilee is good we perform a song, an aria or a whole A national committee in charge of the reason to accentuate the professional opera, he always wanted us to be initiatives celebrating the centennial achievements of the renowned basso, frank, to commit ourselves entirely birth anniversary has been set up his artistic principles and above all and never to go home “with savings”. under the patronage of Mihail Mikov, – his beliefs as a human being”, says And I can still see him – the way he President of the Bulgarian National Elena Dragostinova. would be standing, ready to voice Assembly. It comprises government The world events marking the jubilee disapproval or with tears in his eyes.” and non-governmental organizations as well as national media. “Our aim is to mark Boris Christov’s centennial jubilee on a scale, befitting such a great artist,” says Momchil Georgiev, member of the committee. “The idea is to encompass a greater scope of initiatives than the traditional for such events. The Boris Christoff contest for young opera singers will, of course, take place this year. On May 18, his birthday, we shall organize a tribute at the Sofia Opera house and many concerts around the country.” At the end of his life Boris Christov left his Sofia home to the

Issue 01/ ZOOM Bulgaria magazine 25 zoom/sport Borovets returns on the world ski map by Vesela Vladkova

After it hosted 11 starts for the Alpine gold and bronze medals and wonderful Skiing European Cup and two Alpine impressions. I hope I will come back Ski World Cup competitions in the past, again here. I would like to thank all who the winter resort of Borovets is back contributed to the excellent organization on the world ski map. On February 15 and to all ski fans who created the and 16 the oldest winter ski center in wonderful atmosphere”, said 24-year- Bulgaria welcomed the European ski old skier. elite at the slalom race and the giant slalom ski events. The skiing conditions in Borovets were perfect indeed. Despite the unusually high Ninety skiers from seventeen countries temperatures, the organizers of the event competed on the difficult Petar made sure the ski run was solid, which Popangelov ski run. Victor Muffat- according to all ski experts provided Jeandet from France was fastest at the better skiing conditions than the Olympic giant slalom competition. The 24 year- ski runs in Sochi. All athletes, officials old Frenchman was in great shape on and guests of the ski competitions in the following day as well, when he won Borovets agreed that the events were held another medal in Borovets - he placed in line with the World Cup standards. third at the slalom event together with Bulgarian President Rossen Plevneliev Wolfgang Hoerl from Austria. Young who awarded the medals to the winners Norwegian Truls Johansen placed first, also shared this view. “I am impressed by followed by German skier Philipp what I see here in Borovets: I will be very Schmid. happy if the oldest ski resort in Bulgaria hosts World Cup ski competitions again”, “This was my perfect weekend”, says said President Plevneliev who is a keen Victor Muffat-Jeandet with a smile on skier and tried the ski slopes in Borovets his face. “I am leaving this place with himself.

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Those who love skiing are not surprised by all positive comments. Borovets has ample experience in organizing top-level ski competitions since 1977 when the first start of the Alpine Skiing European Cup was held at the resort. Borovets played host to all ski competitions thanks to top Bulgarian skier Petar Popangelov, rather than to its wonderful nature and professional organization only. During the 1970’s and the 1980’s Popangelov who was born in the nearby town of was at the zenith of his career and placed first in one of the World Cup competitions. He placed 6th twice in the Winter Olympics in Lake Placid back in 1980 and Sarajevo in 1984. The competitions of the Alpine Ski World Cup in Borovets in 1981 and 1984 were held due to his success. That is why the ski run which hosted both slalom competitions was named after him.

The sports career of the only five-time winner of the World Cup Crystal Globe Marc Girardelli is connected with Borovets as well. Girardelli has for many years been helping the Bulgarian Ski Federation and was among the official guests during the competitions held in Borovets. He competed for the Alpine European Cup in Borovets back in 1979. “I was only 15 and I knew nothing about Bulgaria at that time”, Marc Girardelli recalls. Several years later he returned to Borovets to compete with great Swedish skier Ingemar Stenmark. Both great athletes won gold medals in Borovets. “My victory at the slalom event during the Alpine Ski World Cup in 1984 was tantamount to an Olympic medal, because I was banned from participating at the Winter Olympic Games in Sarajevo”, says Girardelli who was born in Austria, but competed for Luxembourg. Today Girardelli is promoting ski sports and would be extremely happy if competitions of the Alpine Ski World Cup are held both in Bansko and Borovets winter resorts.

Issue 01/ ZOOM Bulgaria magazine 27 zoom/history How a trip gives rise to A book about Bulgaria by Vladimir Vladimirov

What could prompt a foreigner “I initially decided to write travel to write a book about Bulgaria? notes which later turned into a whole Scientific interest, love of the book. The density of the events and the country… or simply an interesting numerous impressions, as well as the journey - a short one, yet full of great historical significance of the places we emotions and impressions, such as the visited, were so inspiring. According to one of the Linda and Helmut Matt statistics, Bulgaria is now the poorest family from the German town of EU country. However, it is a very rich Herbolzheim. country in other aspects: its beautiful and unspoilt nature, rich culture, polite t all started back in 1984 when 24 and affectionate people who are proud year-old Helmut Matt who lived of their origin. The long and changing Iin a small town in Schwarzwald history has left behind a rich cultural wanted to see what was really heritage in Bulgaria. History and stories happening in the countries beyond the are what give a real meaning to a certain Iron Curtain where people were slowly place. Having realized that, we wrote rising. Radio was one of the windows this book, where experience is always where he had the opportunity to peer placed within the historical and the through. Thus, he found Radio Bulgaria cultural context.” and its shortwave broadcasts in German. his youth. He studied German philology, He was impressed by the abundance of philosophy, history, computer sciences Helmut Matt’s book entitled “Bulgarian information coming from a European, and trade relations. Later he worked impressions - an adventure trip to a yet little-known country. Helmut Matt at various companies and banks. He little-known country” was published in remained faithful to Radio Bulgaria loves to travel and explore the countries January 2014. It is not a guide only. It throughout the years. from up close. In the summer of 2013, is an emotional and witty description of Helmut Matt and his wife Linda finally impressions and encounters in a country “To this very day Radio Bulgaria is my decided to see Bulgaria with their own which is mostly popular worldwide as a favourite radio among a multitude of eyes. During their ten-day holiday they cheap tourist destination. radios which broadcast abroad”, writes visited the capital Sofia, the winter Helmut Matt in his book. “Thus, almost resort of Bansko, the town of Samokov, Helmut Matt ends his book with the every day we receive information at the second-biggest city Plovdiv. They following words: home about Bulgaria and the world also climbed , and Pirin “Bulgaria will always have a place in with many comprehensive and critical mountains and visited landmarks. They my heart with its magnificent towns, analyses, including intricate events. At know a lot about many of these places wonderful nature and kind people, the same time, the programs are very from Radio Bulgaria’s broadcasts. Here despite the flaws and the poverty entertaining. The captivating beauty and is what Helmut Matt writes about Sofia: seen in many places. It was not our the inexhaustible variety of Bulgarian “Sofia is a remarkable city full of last visit to this Balkan country. art and music would have been history where antiquity, contemporary There are still many things I would unknown to me had I not found, when life, western and eastern culture, like to see in Bulgaria: the Balkan I was still very young, the shortwave Christianity and Islam meet. If one Mountain range, the Rhodopes, the broadcasts from the Bulgarian capital.” looks for a historical center, like in Rose Valley, the Black Sea coast, etc. Prague or Bratislava, he will remain Folklore will be in the focus of our Helmut Matt was in constant touch with disappointed. History in Sofia is next visit to Bulgaria: folk music, the world through this radio station everywhere. Sofia is a great city, dance, fairs and most probably when he was a student and later when so different from other European the Rose Festival in the town of he started work, although he could not capitals. It has its own charm”, (Central South Bulgaria) – devote himself entirely to the hobby of contends Helmut Matt. and who knows what else?”

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zoom/guide to BG

Geographic Location: Electric Power: 220 V, 50 Hz The Republic of Bulgaria Language: The official language is Bulgarian, is situated in the north- and the official alphabet is Cyrillic. The eastern part of the Balkan belongs to the group of Convertible currency: Peninsula. It covers a the Slavonic languages. Russian and Serbo- territory of 110, 993 square kilometers. Croatian are the most similar languages The Bulgarian monetary unit is the The Republic of Bulgaria borders Romania to it. English is the most common foreign Bulgarian Lev (BGN). 1 Lev = 100 stotinki. to the north, Greece to the south, Turkey language. Almost all young people in the Presently coins in circulation are of nominal to the south-east, Serbia to the west and cities speak English. French, German and values 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 stotinki, and 1 lev. Macedonia to the south-west. The Black Sea Russian are also spoken. The banknotes are: 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 is Bulgaria's natural eastern boundary, its leva. coastline is 378 km long. Climate: The predominant climate in Bulgaria is Time Zone: Time is in the moderate and transitional East European Time Zone. continental. (2,000 to 2,400 hours of Visa: Foreign citizens need Eastern European Standard sunlight per year). Four seasons. Dry and a valid international Time (EET) is 2 hours ahead hot summers. Average temperature (April passport and a visa to of Greenwich Mean Time - September): + 23 °C. Cold winter with enter the country. Visas are issued (GMT+2). snowfalls, average temperature: 0 °C. by the Bulgarian consular sections at the Bulgarian embassies abroad. EU citizens may enter the country only with a valid ID card. Territorial and administrative division: Basic measurement units: For weight: gram Bulgaria is a parliamentary republic. The – kilogram – tonne; 1 tonne = 1,000 kg; country is divided into 28 regions and 264 1 kg= 1,000 gr. For length: centimetre – municipalities. Six plan regions were defined metre – kilometre; 1 km = 1,000 m; 1 m in the country as well in conformity with the = 100 cm. Distance in Bulgaria is measured Emergency Phone requirements of the EU. in kilometres. Speed is measured in km/h. Number: 112

30 ZOOM Bulgaria magazine/Issue 01 Information and reservations: