Strandzha

Strandzha is a low mountain massif spanning southeastern Bulgaria and the adjacent area of northwestern Turkey, characterized by rolling hills, broad forested valleys and a long Black Sea coastline. The range includes mixed deciduous and evergreen forests and a mosaic of rivers, springs and coastal wetlands.

Extensive, relatively intact forest tracts, coastal cliffs and a scattering of traditional villages with vernacular wooden architecture. The region is also noted for cultural traditions such as the rural ritual of nestinarstvo, and for biodiversity of both plants and animals.

Modern conservation efforts culminated in the creation of Strandzha Nature Park to protect landscapes, habitats and cultural heritage; the area contains archaeological sites and long-standing rural communities. Human settlement patterns and land use have shaped the patchwork of fields, meadows and forests seen today.

Geographically Strandzha occupies Bulgaria’s southeastern corner and extends into Turkish territory; the Bulgarian administrative centre associated with the protected area is Malko Tarnovo and the massif lies inland from the Black Sea coast.

• Protected area: Strandzha Nature Park was established in 1995 and covers roughly 1,161 square kilometres, making it Bulgaria's largest protected territory.

What to See #

• Strandzha Nature Park: Strandzha Nature Park, Bulgaria's largest protected area, protects forests, rivers and a long Black Sea coastline within the mountain range.
• Cultural villages: The border area near Malko Tarnovo contains traditional villages noted for wooden architecture and local customs.