As a state established by Khan Asparuh, Bulgaria has been existing for more than 13 centuries.

     Thracians were the first settlers in the Bulgarian lands and their civilization is evidenced by the numerous archaeological artifacts, uncovered tombs, discovered gold and silver treasures.

     Testimonies for the presence of life in the prehistoric ages have been preserved in the best preserved Neolithic housеs discovered worldwide – namely those near the town of Stara Zagora, in Bacho Kiro Cave close to the town of Dryanovo and in Magurata Cave – in the region of the town of Belogradchik.

     The first written reference where the name "Bulgarians" is mentioned is in an anonymous Roman chronograph of 452 AD.

     The centuries-old history of Bulgaria divides into 4 major periods: First Bulgarian Kingdom (681 – 1018 AD); Second Bulgarian Kingdom (1185 – 1396 AD); Third Bulgarian Kingdom (1878 – 1946), and New Bulgarian History.