The Timeless Charm of Plovdiv Region

• HelloЗдравей
  [Zdravey]
• GoodbyeДовиждане
  [Dovizhdane]
• YesДа
  [Da]
• NoНе
  [Ne]
• Please/You're welcomeМоля
  [Molya]
• Thank youБлагодаря
  [Blagodarya]
• Excuse me/SorryИзвинявай
  [Izvinyavay]
• How are you?Как си?
  [Kak si?]
• Fine. And you?Добре. А ти?
  [Dobre. A ti?]
• Do you speak English?Говориш ли английски?
  [Govorish li angliyski?]
• I don't understandНе разбирам
  [Ne razbiram]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseБих искал да видя менюто, моля
  [Bih iskal da vida menuto, molya]
• I don't eat meatНе ям месо
  [Ne yam meso]
• Cheers!На здраве!
  [Na zdrave!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseБих искал да платя, моля
  [Bih iskal da platya, molya]

• Help!Помощ!
  [Pomosht!]
• Go away!Отдели се!
  [Otdeli se!]
• Call the Police!Обадете полицията!
  [Obedete politsiyata!]
• Call a doctor!Обадете доктор!
  [Obedete doktor!]
• I'm lostЗагубен съм
  [Zaguben sum]
• I'm illБолен съм
  [Bolen sum]

• I'd like to buy...Бих искал да купя...
  [Bih iskal da kupya...]
• I'm just lookingСамо гледам
  [Samo gledam]
• How much is it?Колко струва?
  [Kolko struva?]
• That's too expensiveТова е твърде скъпо
  [Tova e tvurde skupo]
• Can you lower the price?Можете ли да намалите цената?
  [Mozhete li da namalite tsenata?]

• What time is it?Колко е часът?
  [Kolko e chasat?]
• It's one o'clockЕдин час
  [Edin chas]
• Half past (10)Половина на (10)
  [Polovina na (10)]
• MorningСутрин
  [Sutrin]
• AfternoonСледобед
  [Sledobed]
• EveningВечер
  [Vecher]
• YesterdayВчера
  [Vchera]
• TodayДнес
  [Dnes]
• TomorrowУтре
  [Utre]
• 1едно
  [edno]
• 2две
  [dve]
• 3три
  [tri]
• 4четири
  [chetiri]
• 5пет
  [pet]
• 6шест
  [shest]
• 7седем
  [sedem]
• 8осем
  [osem]
• 9девет
  [devet]
• 10десет
  [deset]

• Where's a/the...?Къде е...
  [Kade e...]
• What's the address?Какъв е адресът?
  [Kakav e adresat?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Можете ли да ми покажете (на картата)?
  [Mozhete li da mi pokazhete (na kartata)?]
• When's the next (bus)?Кога е следващият (автобус)?
  [Koga e sledvashtiyat (avtobus)?]
• A ticket (to ....)Билет (до ...)
  [Bilet (do ...)]

Plovdiv, one of the oldest cities in Europe, was originally a Thracian settlement known as Eumolpias. The Thracians, an ancient Indo-European people, inhabited the region around 4000 BC. They left behind significant archaeological sites, including burial mounds and sacred sanctuaries, showcasing their rich culture and intricate craftsmanship.

In 46 AD, the Roman Empire annexed the region and renamed the city Philippopolis after Philip II of Macedon. During this period, Plovdiv flourished as a major Roman city. Impressive remnants such as the Roman Theatre, Roman Stadium, and the Ancient Forum remain today, illustrating the architectural prowess and urban planning of the time.

Throughout the medieval period, Plovdiv was a contested city, falling under Byzantine, Bulgarian, and Crusader control at various times. The 9th-century construction of the Nebet Tepe Fortress and the 11th-century Dzhumaya Mosque highlight the city's strategic importance and the diverse cultural influences it experienced.

Plovdiv fell under Ottoman rule in the 14th century and remained part of the Ottoman Empire for nearly five centuries. This era left a lasting impact on the city's architecture, cuisine, and culture. Notable structures from this period include the Dzhumaya Mosque, built in the 15th century, and the Old Plovdiv houses, which feature distinctive Ottoman architectural elements.

The 18th and 19th centuries marked the Bulgarian National Revival, a period of cultural and educational renaissance. Plovdiv was a major center of this movement, fostering the development of Bulgarian literature, arts, and education. The Old Town of Plovdiv is filled with beautifully preserved houses from this era, such as the Balabanov House and the Kuyumdzhieva House, which now serve as museums showcasing the city's vibrant cultural heritage.

In 1878, Plovdiv was liberated from Ottoman rule and became the capital of the autonomous region of Eastern Rumelia. Following the Unification of Bulgaria in 1885, Plovdiv continued to grow as a major economic and cultural hub. The city’s modern development is reflected in its blend of historic and contemporary architecture, bustling markets, and vibrant arts scene.

In 2019, Plovdiv was designated as the European Capital of Culture, a testament to its rich historical and cultural heritage. Throughout the year, the city hosted numerous events, exhibitions, and performances, celebrating its diverse history and modern-day cultural achievements. This accolade further established Plovdiv as a key destination for cultural tourism in Europe.

Plovdiv Region is well-connected and can be reached by various means of transportation. The nearest international airport is Plovdiv Airport, located about 12 kilometers southeast of Plovdiv city. Sofia Airport, Bulgaria’s largest airport, is another option, about a 1.5-hour drive from Plovdiv. From either airport, you can take a taxi, bus, or rent a car to reach the region. Plovdiv is also accessible by train and bus from major Bulgarian cities and neighboring countries.

Within Plovdiv Region, transportation options include buses, taxis, and car rentals. Plovdiv city has an efficient public bus system that covers most parts of the city. For intercity travel, regional buses connect Plovdiv to surrounding towns and villages. Taxis are readily available and relatively inexpensive. Renting a car is a convenient option for exploring the region at your own pace.

The official currency in Bulgaria is the Bulgarian Lev (BGN). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops in Plovdiv city, but it is advisable to carry some cash, especially when traveling to smaller towns and rural areas. ATMs are plentiful in Plovdiv and other major towns in the region. Currency exchange services are available at banks and exchange bureaus.

Plovdiv Region is generally safe for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it is important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While Plovdiv city is safe, be cautious in less populated or poorly lit areas. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying vigilant is always wise.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number connects you to police, medical, and fire services. Plovdiv city has several hospitals and clinics that provide emergency medical care. Pharmacies are available throughout the region for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably but modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Cover your head and shoulders when entering churches and monasteries. Public Transport: Do be respectful and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Avoid loud conversations and eating or drinking on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake or a friendly nod. A simple 'Zdravei' (Hello) is appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept hospitality graciously. Don’t refuse food or drink offerings, as it may be considered impolite.

To experience Plovdiv Region like a local, visit the Kapana Creative District in Plovdiv city, known for its vibrant arts scene, cafes, and shops. Explore the local markets for fresh produce and traditional Bulgarian goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and eager to share stories about their culture and history. Don’t miss visiting the ancient Roman Theatre and the Old Town of Plovdiv for a taste of the region’s rich heritage. For a unique experience, take a walk along the Maritsa River or enjoy a wine tasting tour in one of the region's vineyards.