Struma motorway, Controlled-access highway between Sofia and Kulata, Bulgaria
The Struma motorway is a high-speed road with dual carriageways in southwestern Bulgaria. It runs approximately 172 kilometers with separate lanes and grade separation to keep traffic moving smoothly.
Construction of this road project began after Bulgaria joined the European Union in 2007. The first section opened to traffic in 2011, creating a direct link to the south.
The motorway connects Bulgaria with Greece and has opened new routes for commuters and business travelers. It allows people to move faster between Sofia and the border, strengthening everyday connections between the two countries.
Drivers need to purchase a vignette before using the road instead of paying tolls. Rest areas along the route offer fuel and facilities for breaks during longer drives.
The road includes specialized engineering solutions to protect the Kresna Gorge, a nature reserve home to many endangered animals. These solutions show how modern infrastructure and environmental care can work together.
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