From the Black Sea and the seaside resort of Varna, to the banks of the Danube, bordering neighbouring Romania, from the city of Nessebar, dubbed "the city of 40 churches", to the capital of Sofia that extends to the foot of Vitosha mountain, Bulgaria's contrasting scenery comprises valleys, mountains, vineyards and beaches with turquoise sea. The Thrace, Greek, Roman and Byzantine civilisations have shaped its towns and cities, its architectural heritage and traditions. Renowned too for being a place of spirituality in the very heart of the Balkans, Bulgaria is home to many monasteries, including Rila, a UNESCO World Heritage site from the 10th century and one of the most impressive examples of its kind.
