Smolyan

The province stretches across 3,192 square kilometers within the Rhodope Mountains, containing 10 municipalities and bordering Greece to the south.

The region received its name from the Smolyani Slavic tribe in the 7th century and remained under Ottoman control until liberation in 1912.

The province maintains a mixed religious composition with 61 percent non-religious residents, while Muslims and Orthodox Christians each represent about 19 percent.

The provincial economy centers on mining operations, with over 20 lead and zinc mines in the eastern section contributing to Bulgaria's mineral production.

The territory produces 30 percent of Bulgaria's potato harvest and houses the Rozhen Observatory, the largest astronomical facility in Southeast Europe.

GPS coordinates: 41.62356,24.59139

Latest update: March 2, 2025 22:00