Balkan mountains

Balkan Mountains

The Balkan Mountains (also known as the Stara Planina) are a mountain range in the eastern part of the Balkan Peninsula. The range runs 560 km from the Vrashka Chuka Peak on the border between Bulgaria and Serbia eastward through central Bulgaria to Cape Emine on the Black Sea.

Geography

The Balkan Mountains are divided into Western, Central and Eastern Balkan Mountains. The highest peaks of the Balkan Mountains are in the central region. The highest peak is Botev Peak at 2,376 m, which makes the mountain range the third highest in the country, after Rila and Pirin. The mountains are the source of the name of the Balkan Peninsula.

Flora and Fauna

The Balkan Mountains are notable for their flora and fauna. The Balkan National Park and many other reserves are located in the range, where a number of rare and endangered species are protected.

History

The mountains have been a significant barrier in the history of Bulgaria and the Balkan Peninsula, acting as a natural fortress against invaders. They have also been a source of inspiration for Bulgarian and Serbian poets, artists and authors.

See also

• Geography of Bulgaria
• Geography of Serbia
• Balkan Peninsula