Plovdiv

Plovdiv is the second biggest city in the Republic of Bulgaria with a population of 338,145 inhabitants. The town is situated in south-central Bulgaria on the two banks of the Maritsa River. The city has a well-developed economy with a variety of scientific institutes, universities, international fairs, airport, financial institutions, duty free zone, stock exchange market and cultural institutions. Plovdiv has historically developed on seven syenite hills, and that is why it is often referred to in Bulgaria as "The City of the Seven Hills". The city is a host to cultural events such as the International Fair Plovdiv, amongst others. Its commercial sector is developing quickly. Shopping centers have been built mainly in the central district and the district of Trakiya. Several hypermarkets have been built mainly on the outskirts of the city. The main shopping area is the central street with its shops, cafés and restaurants. A number of cafés, craftsmen workshops and souvenir shops are situated in the Old Town and the small streets in the centre. There are 7 indoor and outdoor markets for fruits and vegetables. There are also two flower markets – in the centre and in the north. Forthcoming two other markets will be opened – industrial market in the district of Trakia and "Pazar Smirnenski" in the west.