Plovdiv is the second-largest city in Bulgaria, located in the south-central part of the country. It is considered a cultural hub, with several ancient sites including the Roman Ancient Theatre, Roman Odeon, Roman Aqueduct and the Roman Stadium. The city is also known for its old town, which features quaint, colorful houses on winding cobblestone streets.
Plovdiv is one of the older cities in the world, with evidence of habitation dating back to the 6th millennium BCE in the Neolithic era. The city's history includes periods under Thracian, Persian, Greek, Macedonian, Roman, Byzantine, Bulgarian, and Ottoman control, and much of this history is still visible in the city's architecture and historic sites.
Plovdiv is surrounded by seven hills - a defining aspect of its landscape. The Maritsa River also runs through the city. The climate is temperate, with cold, wet winters and hot, dry summers.
In 2019, Plovdiv was the European Capital of Culture, which brought a flurry of cultural events and further bolstered the city's reputation for arts and culture. Overall, Plovdiv is known for its rich historical legacy, vibrant cultural scene and relaxed lifestyle, attracting tourists from all over the world.
