Area: 3,033 sq. km
Population: 130,074
Municipalities – 11: Belogradchik, Boinitsa, Bregovo, Vidin, Gramada, Dimovo, Kula, Makresh, Novo selo, Ruzhintsi, Chuprene
Regional center: Vidin

Vidin Region is one of the small regions in the country. It is located in the north-westernmost part of the Danubian plain. The region is bounded north by the Danube River and west by Serbia (both boundaries coinciding with the state borders of Bulgaria) and east by Montana Region. The relief of Vidin Region is diverse. From northeast to northwest alternate the hilly Danubian Plain, the fore-Balkans and the main Balkan range. The Danube River is a natural link not only with neighboring Romania but also with the other countries along the river. The region houses the unique biosphere reserve of Chuprene, the gorgeous Belogradchik Rocks, the rock formations at Borov kamak and Chuturite, lots of caves (Magura, Venetsa). Natural landmarks ecologically clean areas and opportunities for fishing in the dams along the Danube River are prerequisites for development and investment in Bulgarian property, ecotourism, fishing and spa tourism. The main railroad in the region is the Sofia–Mezdra–Vratsa–Vidin railway line. The two harbors (near Vidin and near Novo Selo) and the vehicle and railroad car ferryboat line serve as a shortcut between Western Europe, Bulgaria and the Aegean Sea. These amenities and factors are major advantage of buying Bulgarian property. The cultural history of the town is reflected in the numerous archeological monuments, architectural fragments, sculptures, bronze and clay items that are kept in the museums. On the walls of Magurata cave the pre-historic man made more than 700 exceptional drawings. The ancient settlements of Ratsiaria (today’s Archar) and Bononia (today’s Vidin) and Castra Madres fortress (today’s Kula) are all evidence of the progress made by those settlements during the Roman times. For two millennia the region had been an important military, transport and commercial center, evidence for which are numerous defensive works built in the vicinity. Baba Vida fortress and Belogradchik fortress give an idea about the Bulgarian medieval fortresses and remnants from ancient castles can be found all over the area – in the town of Kula, the villages of Chichil, Topolovets, Florentine (the Florentiana Roman castle) and elsewhere.

History

The city of Vidin was established in the 3rd century BC and has been developing for centuries. Although no archaeological evidence was found to firmly support this, it is presumed that the area was first settled by a Thracian tribe - tribali. The Roman conquest of today’s northwestern Bulgarian lands began during the third decade BC and continued until 46 AD. The city was a part of the Roman provinces of Misia, Upper Misia and Coastal Dacia.
During the Roman period, the city was called Bononia. At the time of the mediaeval Bulgarian nation-state, it was known as Budin (until the beginning of the 11th century) and as Bdin (after that) and was a seat of a military and administrative region. In the second half of the 13th century, it became the main city of the Vidin Principality, and later, of the Vidin Kingdom. The Turks called the city Vidin. Written evidence shows that, as one of the most important ports, the city was a prospering commercial and economic center. The crafts were extremely well-developed, initially only to meet the needs of the Roman, and later, of the Turkish army, but sufficient to also meet the needs of the citizens. The most typical features of the antique Roman, medieval Bulgarian, Turkish, post-Liberation and new Vidin have combined to form today’s mixture of different ages. The beautiful nature and the specific atmosphere created by the remnants of the past ages, combined with Bulgarian properties, determine the city’s modern look, lifestyle and uniqueness.
Vidin is rich of historic landmarks. The 10th century Baba Vida Fortress has been completely preserved. The fortress played an important role in the city’s defense during the mediaeval period and was completed in the 14th century. The other Vidin fortress, Kaleto, was first built by the Romans. In the Middle Ages, it was reconstructed and has been partially preserved. The two fortresses are national monuments of culture and history. The Koluka Turkish konak became a museum in 1956. Other architectural, cultural and historic monuments include: the Cross-Shaped Barracks; the Turkish post office; the art gallery; the Mathematics High School building; the synagogue; the Drama Theater; the St. Dimitar, cathedral; the St. Panteleymon, St. Nikolai and St. Petka churches, as well as many other old Bulgarian properties, monuments of world, national and local importance.
Vidin is also known by its beautiful riverbank park. The unique layout of the park, a mixture of different styles, was preserved through the centuries. The combination of an English park layout and Baroque forms of vegetation gives the park a unique, typically Bulgarian property look. The riverbank park is located along the bank of the Danube and includes wonderful beaches and recreation places.

Geography

The municipality of Vidin is located in the north-western corner of the Republic of Bulgaria (44°13' latitude и 22°41' longitude) and follows the two most typical bends of the Danube in the section where the river flows from north to south. The city of Vidin is located in the lowest terrace of the Vidin Lowland, 35 meters above sea level.

Geologic characteristics
The territory of the municipality of Vidin is made of young and older geologic deposits that have formed industrial deposits of gypsum and inert materials. The geologic composition is made of alluvial deposits from the Quaternary on a base of dense, waterproof Pliocene clay. The total thickness of the alluvial complex varies between 10 and 20 meters.

Water resources
The water areas account for 5.8% of municipality’s territory. The Danube, with its tributaries, is the main water thoroughfare. Its tributaries come from the main divide of the Western Balkan Mountain Range and from the pre-mountain springs. The Danube is a deep, navigable river. Its level changes during the different seasons. At the end of the winter, the level rises quickly, to reach its maximum in June-July. At that time, the high water leaves the riverbed and floods the islands and the trees along the riverbank up to 2 meters high. The undergound waters in the area are directly connected to the Danube and their levels are influenced by the river. Underground waters are fed also from the waters of unflooded terraces along the neighboring slopes and from rainfalls

Climate
The climate in the municipality of Vidin is moderate continental. The winters are very cold, with minimum precipitation, while summers are hot, with maximum precipitation. The flat landscape allows for humid and warm air flows from the northwest in the spring, summer an fall, and for cold continental air flows from the east in the winter.

Economy

One of the major competitiveness factors for the region is its geographical location that can be used to develop economic sectors to service international transport (road, railroad and river shipping). The peripheral location of the region and may be turned into a competitive advantage through implementing an economic zone and constructing inter-regional and trans-border cooperation networks with other regions and neighboring countries, which is of greta importance for the investors in Bulgarian property. The implementation of economic zones in Vidin and Vratza would provide the momentum for economic recovery and employment generation for the region. The existing natural resource and typical Bulgarian properties are   conducive for the development of environment-friendly agriculture and alternative tourism (rural, ecological and spa tourism). The North-western planning Region has the potential to grow into an international transport junction with highly developed infrastructure, competitive economy and sustained balanced development. Vidin and its adjoining territories are viewed as an area of particularly good potential for becoming an international logistical centre.

Industry
Food-processing industry, production of building materials - mainly for Bulgarian properties, machine building and light industry are the main branches of the industrial structure of the Vidin District. The products manufactured in the district are: raw gypsum, gypsum hardboards, irrigation pumps, tobacco products, telephone sets, china products. The sewing, the wine producing and the milk processing industries are primarily developed.

Agriculture
The moderate climate, temperatures and rainfall, as well as the fertile soils favor the development of agriculture in the district. Тhe major agricultural products are cereal and fodder crops, vegetables, fruit and grapes. The region has a centuries-long tradition in wine production. It is one of the major producers of red and white wines and dessert grapes. The cattle-breeding is oriented towards the production of milk and dairy products from cows and sheep, as well as pork and beef meat.

Population
The population of the district as of 1 March 2001 is 131,215, of which 67,565 women and 63,650 men. It represents 1.7% of the country’s population. Death rate is 21.2 per 1,000; child mortality rate is 12.1 per 1,000 newborn children. The bigger towns are Vidin, Kula and Belogradchik. The population is distributed as follows: 53,791 live in the towns and 77,424 – in the villages.

Employment
Compared to the same period of last year, employment has been reduced by 19.84% for the public sector and by 8.92% for the private sector. Public sector employment is concentrated in the following industries: education (23.25%); healthcare (20.25%); and transport and communications (13.47%). private sector employment is concentrated in the following industries: processing (56.87%); transport and communications (22.02%). In both sectors, employment is lowest in agriculture, 1.65% and 0.34% for the public and the private sector, respectively.

Education
College of Economics of the University of National and World Economy, Sofia - provides high quality education on majors that meet the practical needs of companies and organizations, physical and legal entities. Admission is based on a written exam taken at the university or at its local affiliates. College graduates are allowed to continue their education for a bachelor’s degree at the university, provided their grade average is at least 5.00. College gradutes that have enrolled at the University may have some of their college exams recognized, subjet to University rules. The Municipality of Vidin will cooperate with the New Bulgarain University, Sofia, to establish a distance learning centre for majors that are in demand within the region: law, customs law, economics, management, arts, etc. The students would be able obtain all higher education degrees: specialist, bachelors, masters, doctors.

Taxes
Under the Local Taxes and Fees Act, municipal budget revenues are generated by the full amount of all local taxes and fees and the municipal share of shared taxes levied under other legislative acts (Corporate Income Tax Act, Personal Income Tax Act, Excise Duties Act, etc.) The local taxes and fees under the Local Taxes and Fees Act, as well as the fees for municipal are the major sources of revenues to the budget. Local taxes include: property tax; inheritance tax; donation or sale of property tax.
Property tax - levied on buildings, courtyards, lots, built-up agricultural and forest lands, located within the municipality of Vidin and owned by physical or legal entities. (Note: Agricultar lands and forests are tax exempt). The tax is calculated on the tax valuation of the property, calculated by the tax authorities under Appendix 1 of the local Taxes and Fees Act (for citizens), or on the book value of fixed assets under the Accounting Act (for companies). The tax is payable at four equal payments until March 31, June 30, September 30 and November 30, respectively, in the year when its due. 5% discount is available to everyone who pays the whole annual amount by March 31.
Inheritance tax - levied on property inherited by law or by will, in amounts defined in a scale (table) under Art. 36 of the Local Taxes and Fees Act. Levied on cash, property, securities and other inherited items and/or rights.
Donation or sale of property tax - levied on property acquired by donation, as well as on real estate, limited real rights on real estate and purchased motor vehicles.
The tax is calculated as follows: for Bulgarian property and limited real rights on such - on the market value of the real estate or the tax valuation, whichever is higher;  for donations - on the valuation of the donated Bulgarian property, in an amount defined under Art. 47 of the Local Taxes and Fees Act; for sales - 2% of the valuation of the property, calculated under Art. 46 /2/ of the Local Taxes and Fees Act; for swaps - 2% of the Bulgarian property that has higher valuation;  for partition - on the surplus. Prior to the transfer of title, the tax is payable at the offices in the location where the Bulgarian property is; in all other cases, the tax is due at the place of residence of the payee. 
Motor vehicles tax Levied on the owners of motor vehicles, in an amount based on engine power under Art. 55, 56 and 57 of the Local Taxes and Fees Act. The tax is payable in two equal payments, by March 31 and September 30, respectively, of the year when its due. 5% discount is made to those who pay the full annual amount by March 31.
Local taxes are collected by the Territorial Tax Directorate, Vidin (2, Bdintsi Sq.), within the timaframes and under the procedures stipulated by the Local Taxes and Fees Act, and are credited to Vidin’s municipal budget. All private contracts, with or without notary certification, must be submitted for registration to the Municipality within one month of the date the contract was closed.

Associations, memberships, twin-cities
Vidin municipality a is member of: Euro-region Danube 21; Association for Cross Border Cooperation and Development of Northwest Bulgaria - Vidin; Cross-border Co-operation Development Foundation; National Association of Municipalities in the Republic of Bulgaria; Bulgarian property association; Danube Association of Municipalities; Association of Democratic Municipalities; The following are Vidin's twin cities: Ulm -Germany; Hungary, Demre - Turkey, Rivne - Ukraine and West Carolton - USA, state of Ohio.

Infrastructure

For centuries the geographical location of Vidin has favored its development as a transport, trade and cultural center, which increase the annual return from Bulgarian property in the region. At present, Vidin is one of the biggest transport centers with a well-developed technical infrastructure - automobile, railroad and water connections that are part of the major European transport corridors, ferryboat connections and a duty-free zone. Municipality of Vidin is comprised of 33 communities, of which 2 cities (Vidin and Dounavtsi) and 31 villages, of which 28 of functional type VI, VII and VIII.

Technical infrastructure
Municipality of Vidin is located 200 kilometers away from Bulgaria’s capital, Sofia. Its location makes it easily accessible and determines its importance for the national and the European transport networks as well for the investors in Bulgarian property. Two European transport corridors cross the municipality: No. 4 - Kraiova (Romania) - Vidin - Sofia - Koulata; and No. 7 along the Danube. The city of Vidin is the best place for the construction of a second bridge on the Danube. The EU has made a decision that will make the bridge a reality. The Vidin North port is located close to the city, on a 9 kilometer section along the riverbank, in the immediate vicinity of the ferryboat and the duty free zone. Municipality of Vidin is connected to all communities within the country and to the border checkpoints via roads and railroads. Railroads have a great importance for the municipality and for the investors in Bulgarian property. On the average, 10 trains depart and arrive at the Vidin passenger train station. The freight train station is comparatively new, on an area of 230 decares. Its capacity is 20-30 tons of loading/unloading works and freight processing per day. At present, it is not being utilized at full capacity.

Roads - classification
The road network has internal and regional importance. An important road is the E79 international road, Vidin - Montana - Vratsa - Botevgrad - Sofia. The total length of the roads within the municipality is 218.3 kilometers, including: first class - 30.5 km second class - 33 km third class - 60 km fourth class - 94.8 km. The main railroad in the region is the Sofia–Mezdra–Vratsa–Vidin railway line. The two harbors (near Vidin and near Novo Selo) and the vehicle and railroad car ferryboat line serve as a shortcut between Western Europe, Bulgaria and the Aegean Sea.

Water supply
The communities within the municipality of Vidin get their water supply from 35 water sources, by means of 15 pumping stations with a total capacity of 1,990 l/sec. All communities have water supply. The total length of the water mains is 433 kilometers, of which 150 kilometers of external pipelines and 328 kilometers of internal pipelines. Within the municipality, there are 30 drinking water tanks with a total capacity of 4,990 м3. Due to the fact that drinking water comes from underground sources only (catchments and wells), it doesn’t have to be treated. Drinking water is only processed with Chlorine gas in 13 disinfection points.

Types of electric lines 
Electricity supply to the Vidin Region, 147 communities on an area of approximately 3080 sq.km., is provided by Pleven Electricity Distribution Co., Vidin branch. The branch serves all Bulgarian properties within the region. Vidin Electricity Distribution works in four technical areas: Vidin - city; Vidin - out of city; Koula and Belogradchik. In both the household and the public sector, the company serves about 90,023 subscribers. The company maintains two 110/20кV transformer stations - Gumzovo and Belogradchik. Two radial 110 кV power lines with a total length of 23 km feed the transformer stations. There are four hubs, in Vidin, Koula, Dimovo and Gramada. The company maintains 585 local transformers, of which 163 10 кV and 422 20 кV. Within the region, there are also about 390 alien local transformers. Total installed transformer capacity СрН/НН is about 223.7 МVА. The length of overhead 20 kV lines maintained by the company is: 1423.6 km for one tripple, and 123.9 for two tripples; 89 km cable 20 kV lines; and 117.2 km of cable 10 kV lines. Overhead connections length HH is 1,224 km.

Tourism

The varied scenery, proven ecological factors, peace and quiet of the Bulgarian village are sufficient prerequisites for active holidays and relaxation in an unusual environment. All four seasons are suitable for rural tourism. Each season has its own fascination and holds unexpected surprises for today's urbanized man. Today, Vidin District is a complex mix of elements from all periods of its development. The antique Roman, mediaeval Bulgarian, Turkish, post-Liberation and new period of Vidin’s development have all left their mark on the Bulgarian properties, monuments and on the look of the region as a whole.

District municipalities

Vidin
Vidin municipality is located in the farthest northwest corner of Bulgaria. It is situated along the two most characteristic meanders of the Danube River. It is close to neighboring Serbia and Montenegro and borders on Romania. The municipality is at a distance of 200 km from Sofia. Two trans-European corridors pass through it: No. 4 and No. 7. The city of Vidin is the location of choice for the construction of Danube Bridge 2. 2.5 km from the city is the Vidin-Calafat ferry servicing the European transport corridor No. 4. In close proximity is the Duty-free Area. The total length of the road network is 218.3 km. 6 km from Vidin there is an airport that was closed down in 1998 but with preserved air traffic control systems; the airport may be re-opened if necessary. The Vidin-North Port is located 2,5 km outside the city. Freight port - South, in the South Industrial Area, with RO-RO and RO-LA terminals. The River Station Vidin Customs Office processes goods and passengers along the second European transport corridor No. 7 - the Danube River; the Bregovo Customs Office is 30 km away, The Vrashka Chouka Customs Office is 45 km away.
The companies of primary importance in the municipality include: the Koshava Mines - the only one for the extraction and processing of gypsum; Knauf Gipsfaser, AD - the only manufacturer of plasterboard on the Balkans with 100 % foreign interest; "Gyps" EOOD - extraction and processing of gypsum; "Vida Style" EAD; "SO MAT" Vidin branch - internal and international transport; "Vipom" AD - production of water pumps; "Vida Style" EAD - production of men's shirts, as well as some small and medium enterprises of the foodstuffs and tailoring industry. One of the advantages is the Duty-Free Area constructed on the banks of the Danube, with 7 300 sq. m of indoor and 3 000 sq. m of outdoor storage facilities, technical infrastructure and modern telecommunications, providing all necessary conditions and opportunities, established by the international standards on special business areas. Vidin municipality is an agrarian and industrial area with potential and traditions in vegetable growing, viticulture and grain production. Farming land occupies 374,416,000 sq. m; the arable land is 331,419,000 sq. m, with 43.87 % under irrigation. The region has a good potential for investment in Bulgarian property.
There are specialized units providing hotel services, recreation and tourism opportunities. The hotel accommodation and the educational facilities provide conditions for organizing business meetings, conferences and similar events. Another source of tourist and business services is the Vidin Ship whose accommodation facilities and catering establishments in combination with the opportunity for travel along the Danube, makes the ship an attractive place for holding symposia, exhibitions, forums and others.
There are a number of cultural sights on the territory of the municipality, of which 40 are historical monuments, 2 are archaeological, 68 are architectural and there are 6 sights manifesting high standard of architecture and arts. The municipality is also home to 18 protected natural sites (centuries-old trees) listed as nature landmarks. The sites attracting the most visitors are the Baba Vida Fortress, the "Krastata Kazarma" ("Cross-shaped Barracks") Museum, and the medieval walls of the Turkish Town-Hall (Konak). Foreign visitors are mostly from the United Kingdom, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium and Italy. Some of these include wine-tasting trips to sample local types of wine, traditional local cuisine, organized cruise trips down the Danube, short hiking expeditions in the countryside, production of souvenirs and local handicraft items, etc. The city is famous for its riverside park situated along the river bank, which includes recreational sites and beaches.

Belogradchik
Belogradchik Municipality is situated in northwestern Bulgaria on the northern and northeastern slopes of the Balkan Range, immediately next to the state border with Serbia and Montenegro. The trans-European highway Е 79 passes near it. The largest water basin is the Rabishko Lake of area 3,250,000 sq. m and of volume 45 million cubic meters of water. The underground natural reserves of the Municipality are varied. The limestone near Granitovo village is of interest, it is the so-called marble limestone known as Perla (pearl).
The largest industrial company is the Telephone Sets Plant. The land and forestry funds and municipal terrains are the primary advantage of the Municipality. Forestry is a strategic reserve for development of tourism, wood logging and wood processing, hunting and fishing, gathering, cultivation and processing of herbs, mushrooms, forest fruits, etc. The region has very good potential for investment in Bulgarian property.
Through participation in projects and programs the Municipality has constructed a number of buildings and other sites for the infrastructure and public works. The most significant project in the field of tourism is the installation of lighting in the Magoura cave.
Projects, which investments are being sought for: Development of water sports in the Rabisha Lake - modernization of the infrastructure, construction and maintenance of villas for tourists, establishing suitable conditions for construction of camping sites in the surroundings of the Rabisha Lake; Construction of Tourist Information Center; Development of rural tourism in Belogradchik Municipality; Construction of wine-tasting hall in Magoura cave; Development of congress and seminars tourism; Construction of Euro-info-center on the territory of Belogradchik Municipality; Promotion of the local crafts in Bulgaria and abroad and preserving the craftsmen traditions in the region; Advertising of the natural sights in the Municipality in Bulgaria and abroad.
The Belogradchishki Skali (the rocks of Belogradchik) natural phenomenon, which is of 30 km length and 3 - 5 km width, is located in the Municipality. Immediately next to Belogradchik town is the largest cave on the Balkan Peninsula - the Magoura cave, which is famous mainly for the unique prehistoric drawings inside it (the drawings are under the protection of UNESCO). The constant temperature of 12°C and the unchanging humidity are favorable conditions for treatment and disease prevention procedures for some lung diseases, as well as for preparation and keeping of sparkling wines. The picturesque Rabisha Lake is immediately next to the cave. Kaleto historic fortress is near Belogradchik town; in III c. AD it used to be a Roman fortified castle, and later on it was a medieval Bulgarian fortress, which has been preserved until nowadays. An Astronomy Observatory exists in the town. There is also a municipal museum with two sections: Historical Museum and Nature and Science Museum.
A municipal Environmental Protection Program has been drawn out. With a view to improvement of the environmental protection the Municipality prepared and defended also 6 projects for the Let Us Clean Bulgaria campaign. The availability of phenomenal natural sights, the combination of different relief shapes with favorable climate and varied forest vegetation are perfect conditions for development of recreation and tourism. Conditions for hunting tourism are in place in the hunting unit in the Stakevski mountainous area. The Chouprene biosphere reserve is in the foot of the Balkan Range immediately next to the border of the Municipality; it offers wonderful conditions for hunting tourism and ecotourism.

Bregovo
Bregovo Municipality is situated in the most distant northwestern part of Bulgaria. The Timok River and the Danube is natural border with Serbia and Montenegro and Romania. Given the existence of the bridge that was constructed on the Timok River and the border control point in Bregovo town, the Municipality is an important entry and exit point of Bulgaria. It is of pressing importance a ring-road to be built for motor vehicles to bypass Bregovo town on their way to the border control point. The following road sections are defined as border sections: Bregovo - Koudelin, Bregovo - Kossovo - Delejna; the section Delejna - Tijanovtsi - Kalina is defined as a section through slightly populated semi-mountainous region. The construction of these sections is subsidized by the Ministry of Transport and Communications and the Ministry of Finance. The area has great potential for investment in Bulgarian property.
Agriculture is a traditional sector. Out of the total area of the Municipality agricultural land occupies 143,612,000 sq. m, including 120,407,000 sq. m of arable land, 12,059,000 sq. m of meadows and pastures and 26,902,000 sq. m of forests. The following sights have been found in the Municipality: Dorticum locality- a Roman fortified settlement near Vrav village; excavations of Roman times near Baley village; a Tartar well near Joudelin village.
A number of environmental projects have been developed, such as Parks Design - Product of New Thinking for Baley village, and others. Trees have been planted in the central part of Bregovo town and along 200 meters of the roadside. All the sites covered by the program for temporary employment are related to the environment - they foresee grassing, cleaning, forestation. Although the Municipality is located near the state border, tourism has not been developed in it.

Dimovo
Dimovo Municipality is the second biggest Municipality in Vidin District. Its territory is traversed by two Trans-European transport corridors - No. 4 from Greece to Western Europe, which is international road Е-79, and corridor No. 7 along the Danube; the railway line Vidin - Sofia passes here as well.
Dimovo Municipality is a traditional producer of grains and oil-bearing crops, and also of perennial crops. The territory of the Municipality is relatively rich in wild fruits, mushrooms and herbs. A good precondition for development of pasture stockbreeding is the availability of 42,000,000 sq. m of natural pastures and meadows. Bee keeping also has a vast tradition and is performed by private farmers. Honey production has good prospects for the future, because the region is environmentally clean and the honey is of good quality. The existing water resources - rivers and dam lakes, offer perfect opportunities for fish farming. In the recent years several large private investment projects have been implemented in the Municipality, namely: Company for production of bio-diesel fuel. This is a unique production process and the plant is one of the only three such plants in Europe; A company for production and processing of oil-bearing crops on an area of 1,000,000 sq. m. Production shop for shock-freezing of vegetables; Production shop for cardboard articles; Workshop for purchasing and processing of honey and bee products; Establishing vine massifs on an area of 700,000 sq. m.; A milling complex for different types of flour, annual capacity of 12,000 tons, the only one in the region. The region offer good opportunities for investment in Bulgarian property.
One of the oldest ancient Roman settlements of 1 c. BC is found in the Municipality. Its ancient name was Ratiaria - a main city of the eastern Roman province of Lower Dackia. It had a mint. A silver treasure of the II - I c. BC has been found. The karst caves in the area of Oreshets village have unique history. Evidence of the presence of Homo Erectus has been found and dated back to approximately 1.2 to 1.3 million years ago. In the land of Izvor village is located the Saint Virgin Mary's Assu monastery for girls; it was built 100 years earlier than the Rila Monastery.

Koula
The municipality of Koula is situated in northwestern Bulgaria at the westernmost edge of the Danube Plain, 32 km from the District Center Vidin. Its territory covers two morphological structural units - the hilly Danube Plain and the foothills of the Balkan Range (the Fore-Balkan). The relief is hilly and flat, cut across by the river valleys of the Topolovets and Chichilska rivers. The average altitude is 295 m above sea level. To the west Koula municipality borders the Republic of Serbia and Montenegro along a 12 km borderline. The hilly Balkan range extends to the south and southeast at an altitude of 300 - 500 m. The climate is moderate continental with cold winters and hot summers. The soils are humus (black earth) in the plain and brown soils in the higher areas, suitable for the development of agriculture.
A strategic objective of the municipality is to develop modern agriculture with its main sectors, plant growing and stockbreeding making use of the opportunities for financial support to farmers under the SAPARD Program and the State Agriculture Fund. One of the priorities is surveying the conditions for growing perennial plants, such as orchards, vineyards, raspberries, technical oil-bearing crops and others. The region of Koula has traditions in the dairy industry (milk production and milk processing) and opportunities are sought to provide support to small and medium-size farms and to reconstruct the dairy factory in the town of Koula for the production of organic products.
The Municipality makes use of every opportunity to participate and develop projects under European Union programs (pre-accession instruments and Community programs). It has been awarded projects under the Beautiful Bulgaria Program as well as for the rehabilitation of the road infrastructure in town. The municipality has submitted a project proposal to participate in the Development of Bulgarian Ecotourism and Encouraging Youth Employment projects. There is a plan to study the opportunities for trans-border cooperation (in the cultural, economic, and tourist sectors) with the Republic of Serbia and Montenegro. The favorable natural environment, the availability of manmade water reservoirs and the cultural and historic monuments nearby, the natural sights and the opportunities for the development of agriculture are all favorable conditions for the region to develop as an eco-tourist destination and a modern farming region. The region is a hot spot for investment in Bulgarian property. The strategic objectives for the development of Koula are: Economic growth (development of agriculture, light industry, local tourism and support to small and medium-size businesses). Reduce the level of unemployment (provide steady employment and open up new jobs, support disadvantaged social groups). Stabilize social and economic processes in the municipality and upgrade the environment. The investment in Bulgarian property in the region offers a good annual return.
The Holy Trinity Monastery (12 century) situated near the village of Rakovitsa functions as an informal tourist facility in the vicinity of Koula (at a distance of 21 km). A fixed tourist route leads from the monastery to the Babin Nos and Chernoglav peaks. The Vrashka Chuka protected natural sight is located on the territory of the municipality. It has an area of 676,000 sq.m and is the habitat of unique plant species, such as Bulgarian erantisus, Tomassini's crocus, coralline peony and others. There is a plan to include the sight in an eco-route covering part of Koula and other adjacent municipalities. The ruins of Kastra Martis (2 c.). Roman fortress dating back to late antiquity and giving the name of the town can be found in the center of the Municipality. Not far from the ruins there is a museum exhibition featuring artifacts discovered during the excavations (clay vessels, marble columns, household objects, coins and others).

Novo Selo
Novo Selo is at 24 km from Vidin city, there is road connection between them, and in Vidin there is the railway line Vidin - Sofia, as well as bus lines to Sofia and other cities; In Vidin is also the ferryboat connection Vidin - Calafat, and there are ships leaving from Vidin port.
In the region of Novo Selo the soil and climate are quite favorable for viniculture and wine production. The location of the population centers on the Danube River bank and the closeness of the vineyard massifs and winery offer a chance for rural tourism development - with demonstration of the wine production, tasting of various brands of wine and river cruises. In Novo Selo village there is a port, which can be used for cargo loading and unloading and for coasting of ships carrying tourists. The inv
At 3 km from Novo Selo village on the river bank is the Kamaka picturesque locality, where a children summer camp has been built. The beaches on the Danube in Novo Selo, Florentin and Yassen are beautiful, enjoyable and convenient for swimming. The following have been declared monuments of culture of local importance: Zemedelets "chitalishte" (arts, culture and literature center) in Novo Selo village; St. Nicholas church and the clock tower with it. A traditional event is the annual summer planner of artists from Danube-river countries, which is hosted by Novo Selo. The participants in the international Danube regatta TID arrive at the coast at Novo Selo every year.

Rouzhintsi
Rouzhintsi Municipality is situated in the northwestern part of Bulgaria, by the Lom River. The village is on the highway /road Е-79/ Vidin - Montana - Sofia. It is crossed also by an important road connecting Lom and Belogradchik through the Belogradchik pass and going to Serbia and Montenegro.
There are a number of protected plants in the Municipality, such as Loddon Lily and water lily in Vlashka Dolchina locality in the land of Belo Pole village. The Dobridolski Monastery is in the Municipality. There are three dam lakes in the Municipality, which offer possibilities for sports fishing.

Dimovo
Dimovo Municipality is the second biggest Municipality in Vidin District. Its territory is traversed by two Trans-European transport corridors - No. 4 from Greece to Western Europe, which is international road Е-79, and corridor No. 7 along the Danube; the railway line Vidin - Sofia passes here as well.
Dimovo Municipality is a traditional producer of grains and oil-bearing crops, and also of perennial crops. The territory of the Municipality is relatively rich in wild fruits, mushrooms and herbs. A good precondition for development of pasture stockbreeding is the availability of 42,000,000 sq. m of natural pastures and meadows. Bee keeping also has a vast tradition and is performed by private farmers. Honey production has good prospects for the future, because the region is environmentally clean and the honey is of good quality. The existing water resources - rivers and dam lakes, offer perfect opportunities for fish farming. The region offers approximately good annual return of the investment in Bulgarian property. In the recent years several large private investment projects have been implemented in the Municipality, namely: Company for production of bio-diesel fuel. This is a unique production process and the plant is one of the only three such plants in Europe; A company for production and processing of oil-bearing crops on an area of 1,000,000 sq. m. Production shop for shock-freezing of vegetables; Production shop for cardboard articles; Workshop for purchasing and processing of honey and bee products; Establishing vine massifs on an area of 700,000 sq. m.; A milling complex for different types of flour, annual capacity of 12,000 tons, the only one in the region.
One of the oldest ancient Roman settlements of 1 c. BC is found in the Municipality. Its ancient name was Ratiaria - a main city of the eastern Roman province of Lower Dackia. It had a mint. A silver treasure of the II - I c. BC has been found. The karst caves in the area of Oreshets village have unique history. Evidence of the presence of Homo Erectus has been found and dated back to approximately 1.2 to 1.3 million years ago. In the land of Izvor village is located the Saint Virgin Mary's Assu monastery for girls; it was built 100 years earlier than the Rila Monastery.

Chouprene
Chouprene municipality is located in northwestern Bulgaria, along the northeastern slopes of western part of the Balkan Range, along the state border with the Republic of Serbia and Montenegro. The village of Chouprene is located 75 km to the south of the regional centre, the city of Vidin. The highest point is the Midjur Peak - 2168 m. The municipality has road transport links with the city of Vidin, the town of Belogradchik and the town of Montana, and along the Vidin - Sofia railway, at Oreshets Station.
The largest enterprise on the territory of the municipality is Videx AD - Midzhour factory in the village of Gorni Lom. The plant's core activity is the production of industrial explosives for the ore and coal mining industry, intended for the domestic market and for export to Macedonia, Serbia and Montenegro, Greece. There are three hydroelectric power stations downstream the Lom River; they are connected in a cascade. Another four hydroelectric power stations along the same river are currently under construction.
The clock tower in the village of Chouprene was built in 1899 by Macedonian craftsmen; The Chouprene Natural Reserve (protected by UNESCO) with an area of 15,000,000 sq. m - one of the largest natural habitats of common spruce and home to the only capercaillie population in Bulgaria. There are 10 eco-paths on territory of the municipality providing excellent conditions for tourism and recreation. There are good accommodation opportunities in Chouprene and Gorni Lom.

Boinitsa
The Municipality of Boinitsa is located in the northwestern-most part of Bulgaria. The municipal center is situated 35 km away from the district center, Vidin. Three rivers cross the municipality: the Boinishka, the Rabrovska and the Topolovska. Transport services in the municipality of Boinitsa are provided only by road. Agriculture plays a pivotal role in the economy of the municipality. Agricultural land occupies 13,280 ha and forestland covers 2,460 ha. Plants growing are centered mainly on cereals and fodder grain. Industry includes two small workshops manufacturing rubber and plastic products. They are local branches of KULA-RING AD, Koula town and are located in the villages of Boinitsa and Rabrovo. There is a small creamery in Boinitsa satisfying the needs of the population in the municipality and the district. Landmarks such as the only waterfall in the north-west of Bulgaria located in the area of Boinitsa, the Cave Monastery on the road to the village of Rabrovo, the remains of the Petsino Kale Roman Fortress in Boinitsa, etc. could attract the attention of tourists. The good natural and climatic conditions, the clean environment and the hospitable population are a good prerequisite to the development of rural tourism. The area has a good potential for investment in Bulgarian preopery. The municipality has four churches /in the villages of Boinitsa, Rabrovo, Shishentsi and Borilovets/.

Culture

Vidin is a town of rich cultural tradition. The oldest cultural institution on its territory is the “Tsviat” Cultural Centre, established in 1879. During its a-hundred-and-twenty-years existence it has contributed to the establishment of the Drama Theatre in 1879, the State Puppet Theatre in 1981, the State Philharmonic Orchestra (the first attempts for its establishment date back to 1910), the Historical Museum and the Public Library. Vidin is also known for the “Danube” Ensemble for Folk Songs and Dances, founded in 1971. The town is the birthplace of the world-famous artist Jules Pasquin. He was born in 1885 and worked in Munich, Paris and New York. The artist has left over 500 paintings, hundreds of engravings, thousands of aquarelles and drawings.

Vidin Museum of History
The Vidin Museum of History was established in 1910 as an archaeological society. Its by-laws state that its goal was “to find, preserve and study the monuments of the past that will be kept in a museum that will be located in the city of Vidin”. The sociaety was very active but the wars from 1912 - 1918 periods hindered its development. On March 1, 1925, it recommenced its activities under a new name, Bononia. By 1932, the museum had its own building (in the old Turkish post office) and an exhibition on pre-history, paleontology, archaeology and ethnography. The coin collection included 2,500 coins. The archaeological map of the Vidin area is extremely impressive; it shows all known sites (churches, Roman roads, antique and mediaeval settlements).  In 1948, was transferred to the Vidin County People’s Council. In 1954, the museum was renamed to a People’s General Museum with historic profile. The building of the Konak (the old municipal building), a monument of culture, was given to the museum. Today, the museum is located in the administrative building and in three tourist sites: the Baba Vida mediaeval castle, Konaka an* the Cross-Shaped Barracks. The latter two building date back to the end of the 18th century and currently host the following exhibitions: History of Bulgaria 15th through 19th century; archaeology; and ethnography. The museum has a staff of 20, of whom 13 experts in history and foreign languages. The museum has the following departments; pre-history; archaeology; coins; history of Bulgaria 15th through 19th century; ethnography; and new history. It owns 58,582 exhibits. 56 immovable monuments of culture are located within the municipality: archaeological sites from the Antiquity and the Middle Ages, 15th through 19th century churches and mosques, as well as buildings from 1880-1925 period. 

Mikhalaki Georgiev Regional Library
The library is the successor of the library established in 1870 when the Russian Consulate donated 174 books that have been preserved until today. Initially, the library was located in the Vida Theater; after the Liberation, it was moved to Antim I High School. The first paid curator was assigned in 1925. The first attempts to make a catalog of the books were in 1953. On April 1, 1059, following the adoption of the new administrative division of the country, the library became County Methodological Library. Differentiated services to readers date back to the same year. In 1965, the readers got free access and an independent children’s section was established. Despite the fact the library was located in two separate buildings, its activities expanded. In 1989, the library team was awarded Cyril and Methodius Order, I Grade. In 1991, some of the premises of the former communist party headquarters were given to the library. Now all departments are located in one building. This also allowed for the expansion of the reading-room activities. The following reading-rooms are functional at present: humanitarian sciences; exact and applied sciences; periodicals; art and music; children’s reading-room, all totaling 70 seats. Today the library is the largest generally accessible scientific library within the Vidin Region.

Vladimir Trendafilov Drama Theater
Vida Charity Theater Society was established in 1879. The first performances were held at the National Café in the Bolyarska neighborhood. The Vida Theater was built in 1891 with funds collected by a steering committee. This is the first building in Bulgaria that was built to be used as a theater. Today, the Vidin Drama Theater has an extensive repertoire and has performances two seasons every year.

State Puppet Theater
The Vidn Puppet Theater was established in 1976 as a section of the Tsvyat Community Center. In 1980 it became a state theater under the Ministry of Culture. Since 2000, the puppet theater is co-financed by the Municipality of Vidin and the Ministry of Culture. At present, the staff is 24. The actors are 9, with their own director, art studios, technical staff and administration. The performances are mostly for children but there are some for adults as well. 3 to 4 new performances are staged every year. Annually, the theater has about 200 performances in the city and the neighboring communities, as well as all over the country. The actors utilize different systems of puppets but show a consistent interest in the theater of shadows. The Vidin Puppet Theater is the only Bulgarian theater that is a member of the Art for Children and Youth European Association in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. The Vidin Puppet Theater has participated in many national and international meetings and festivals and has been awarded many prizes, such as: first prize of the National Puppet Acacdemy; the Special Award of the Jury at the International Puppet Festival in Botoshani, Romania (1996); the Most Theatrical Team Award at the International Puppet Festival in Subotitsa, Yugoslavia (1997); the award of the Dutch Embassy and the Projects: East West Dutch Foundation at the International Puppet Festival in Pleven (1999 and 2000).The Vidin Puppet Theater has successfully performed in Germany, Austria, Yugoslavia, Mongolia, Croatia, Romania, Hungary and Albania.

Places of interest

Belogradchik
Belogradchik stands 52 km south -west from Vidin and is 520 meters above sea level. The famous Belogradchik rocks surround the town and make it very charming. It is an ancient settlement, grown over the ruins of a Roman castle and has existed even in Middle Ages. To the south of the town there is the Belogradchik fortress. There, in the highest part (the citadel) signs of Roman and Middle Ages construction were found. Its final vision the fortress gets in the period 1805-1837. It consists of three parts (two of them - new built). Its total area is 10 211 square meters. Two hundred meters to west of the "Gornoto Kale" (the upper fortress) is the so cold "Latin Kale". Belogradchik rocks cover an area of 30 km long and 3 km wide. They are the most famous nature sight in Bulgaria. Most of them are people, or animal, or castles, or mushrooms, or obelisk, or boat like formed. They are 200 meters high. Together with the fortress they are among the hundred National Tourist Objectives. The oldest preserved building in the town is the mosque "Hadza Hyusein" (1751). There are also preserved "Panovata Kashta" (Pano’s house-1810) - the Historical Museum is arranged in it; the church "Sveti Georgi" (1868). The town played significant role in the large-scaled uprising of the peasants from North Western Bulgaria against Osman Turks.

The Baba Vida Castle
Castle construction began in the second half of the 10th century on walls and a tower from Bononia. The castle and the moat have a total area of 9.5 decares. Most of the buildings were completed between the end of the 12th and the end of the 14th century. It consists of housing and defense sections (a moat and two defense walls with towers). It is presumed that the second one consisted of guard premises, warehouses (food, water, weapons) and the home of the local ruler. Remains of a 13th century chapel were found in this section. In the period from the end of the 17th and the beginning of the 19th century, the castle was adapted for firearms. The housing section was changed significantly by placing warehouses, guard premises and a prison that have been preserved until today. The upper section of the castle is covered with a mound of ground. The castle was used as a defense installation for the last time in 1885. The later restorations were partial and don’t change the fact that Baba Vida is the only completely preserved Bulgarian mediaeval castle. It is a national monument of culture since 1964, a tourist attraction, a place where documentaries and movies have been filmed. The summer theater of the city is located in the castle.

Kaleto Fortress
The building of the so-called Kale (fortress) began during one of the Austrian-Turkish wars. The fortress was built in the period between 1690 and 1720. It has a semicircular form with a diameter of 1,800 meters, formed by a wall following the Danube riverbank. At the riverbank, the wall is double, while at the mainland it’s single. In front of it is located a moat, 18 meters wide and 6 meters deep, that was filled with water from the Danube. Today, the fortress is partially preserved. A part of the moat has been filled up and only the fortress gates (kapii) have remained, from north to south: Florentin (Karlu Baba), Enichar (Boklouk), Pazar (Londzha) and Stambol. The gates to the Dnube were five, named from north to south: Araluk, Top, Saray, Telegraph and Syurgyun.

Osman Pazvantouglou’s Mosque and Library
Only the mosque and the library have remained from Pazvantoglou’s compound, built at the end of the 18th and the beginning of the 19th century. The compound has probably included a medrese (school) or a zavie (a small Muslim religious cloister). The mosque is a solid stone building with a strict oriental structure. Pazvantoglou dedicated it to his father who was decapitated in Vidin on sultan’s order. The library is a stone, square, single-dimensional building, covered by a dome of lead tin, with a small open foyer. The inscription at the entrance states that Pazvantoglou has dedicated it to his late mother.

The Cross-Shaped Barracks
The building was finished in 1801 at the place of the old saray’s garden and was used as a konak by the enichars (home of the enichar aga). A covered wooden bridge connected it with the neighboring armory. After the Liberation, the building was used by the Bulgarian army as barracks. It is a solid two-story building, with a total built-up area of 1,260 sq. m, in the shape of an even cross. Each wing has a corridor with different location of rooms. The initial layout is unknown, as it has been changed several times to accommodate new departments. The original look and location of the stairways connecting the two levels are also unknown. The basement and ground floor walls are made of stone and brick. Of the interior, the four columns with sharp corners are especially imposing. The walking line is naturally oriented towards the four corridors. The central section is one of the most representative parts of the building. The building has four almost independent patios. The entrances are located in the corners of the midsection diagonals. In a later period, a clock tower was built in a square next to the barracks. Unfortunately, the clock tower has not been preserved.

Danube Riverbank Park
With its preserved original layout, the park is a historic landmark. The combination of an English park layout and Baroque forms of vegetation gives the park a unique, typically Bulgarian look. The riverbank park is located along the bank of the Danube and includes wonderful beaches and recreation places.
The riverbank park was built in four consecutive stages: 1878 - 1899, 1911 - 1928, 1928 - 1939; and 1939 - 1960. Significant architectural monuments are incorporated in the park, such as Veda Theater, the mosque, Telegraph Kapiya, the Turkish post office, the Baba Vida fortress, as well as archaeological and memorial sites that provide visual contact with the Danube. Other public green areas include: Vladikina Bahcha Park, where Vidin’s bishop’s summer residence used to be located. The garden over the moat, located in the section of the filled-up fortress moat. Nora Chelebi Pizanti Park, where the Vidin fair used to take place. Maiski Les Park - Hunting Park close to the city. Nice flower gardens have been formed around the large public buildings, which make the city look fresh, clean and cosy.

Orlyaka recreation area
Located on the riverbank, 4 kilometers southwest of Vidin, this area consists of the Dounav camping lot. The area provides great short-term recreation opportunities, such as water sports and fishing. It is easily accessible from the city. The Vidin - Kalafat ferryboat line is located close to the area. Area visitors include transit tourists, both Bulgarians and foreigners..

Bozhuritsa recreation area
Located 18 km away from Vidin, between the villages of Sinagovtsi, Ivanovtsi and Milchina Luka and has a small dam. The area has a total of 600 beds, including those of the Bozhuritsa Hut and the recreational facilities owned by companies and organizations. The area offers short-term and long-term recreation opportunities in a forest environment, as well as swimming, rowing and fishing opportunities. The possibilities for forest walks and treks are great and the area is abundant of mushrooms, wild fruits and herbs. The existence of wild game (deer, wild boar, rabbits, pheasants, etc.) offers good hunting opportunities. The area can be easily accessed from Vidin and the neighboring communities. Regular bus lines are available.

The St. Panteleymon Church
The church is located in the courtyard of the Vidin Bishopric. The church is single-nave, half built into the ground, with a semi cylindrical dome. The apse is wide, slightly prolonged, the narthex is dimly lighted. The walls are stone, with four rows of bricks and a jagged stone ledge under the ceiling. The inscription over the entrance states that the church was built over older foundations in 1634. The interior is painted. Belts and medallions with figures of saints are located on the upper parts of the walls and the dome is painted with gospel scenes. Christ and Mary are depicted in two medallions in the center of the dome.
 The Slavonic inscription over the entrance states that the church was painted under Vidin bishop Sofronii in 1646. The old icon-holder wasn’t preserved. The church keeps two icons with precious repose covers, made by prominent Vidin jewelers in 1823 and 1832.

The St. Petka Church
The church was finished in 1636. It is built even deeper in the ground than St. Panteleymon. The late, narrower narthex has a domed entry to the naos, which is shorter, with a semicyllindrical entrance and niches along the walls. A preserved Slavonic inscription over the entrance states that the church was painted in 1633 with the support of Wallach voyvoda John Matey Besaraba.

The St. Nikolai Church
The church was built in 1926 on design by architect Kosta Nikolov who also supervised the construction works.
The church is built at the place of the old bell tower and the outhouse St. Panteleymon. The outhouse was used as a St. Nikola temple (1799). Today, the St. Nikolai church is a part of the compound including St. Panteleymon (1634), the Vidin Bishopric (1924), the Mausoleum of Antim I (1934) and the eparchy school (1926).
The church is three-nave, cross-domed, with one apse, a narthex and towers. Besides a back gallery for visitors, there are also two galleries along the sides. The walls are completely painted.

The St. Dimitar Cathedral
The construction of the first church with this name began in the 17th century. The church was wooden and existed for two and a half centuries. In that church, on December 6, 1868, Vidin bishop Antim I (later the first Bulgarian ekzarkh) announced the secession of the Vidin bishopry from the Constantinople patriarch. A decision to build a new church was made on December 9, 1884, and the old temple was demolished in 1889. The first stone of the new church was placed at a grand ceremony on March 10, 1885. The first service was held on October 26, 1900, at the church’s day. The interior decoration was completed in July, 1926, and it was opened by Vidin bishop Neofit on October 3-4 of the same year.
The St. Dimitar Cathedral is the second largest in the country after St. Alexander Nevski in Sofia. The central dome’s height is 33 meters. The cathedral is a monument of culture with national significance

Vidin Bishopric
The building was finished in 1924 on initiative by Vidin bishop Neofit. It has a central symmetry axis in which the main entrance is located. A stairway is located in the apse against the entrance. Two secondary stairways are placed in the side wings and lead to the patio of the compound. The building is two-story, with basement and attic. The ground floor houses the offices, archive premises and a conference room. The bishop’s quarters are on the first floor. 

The Synagogue
The building is located close to the Baba Vida castle.
It was built in 1894 as a Jewish prayer home. The author of the architectural design is unknown. The building stands free in a triangular lot. Construction was financed by Jewish traders. The layout is absolutely symmetrical, even-shaped, of the three-nave single-apse basilica type, with a narthex, galleries and four towers. The internal dimensions of the prayer room are 21 by 10 meters. The interior is decorated with elements of ancient Jewish and classic architectural forms. The narthex is covered by cross-shaped domes and there are two marble plates and two reliefs with bronze inscriptions in Hebrew. The three naves are separated by an arcade of bronze-plated pig iron columns. The floor is covered with mosaics and wood. The altar is placed on a dais in the apse. It probably repeats the architecture of an ancient Jewish temple. The central nave of the prayer room has very good acoustics. It is covered with cylindrical ribs. The façade is imposing. The central entrance has a semicircular arch placed on two columns with high footings. A round window with an iron bar shaped as a six-ray star is placed in the middle of the arcade. The four towers have arch-like windows with tinted glass and fine decorative grids. After 1950 the building was used as a warehouse which has deteriorated its condition. Today, the synagogue is undergoing restoration.

The Rabisha cave "Magura"
It is northwest to Belogradchik and south-west to Rabisha. It is one of the biggest caves in the country. It is 1750 meters long and together with the branches - over 2500 meters. The cave entrance stays 370 m above sea level and the exit is at the Rabisha Lake. The cave is rich in stalactites, stalagmites and stalactons, has many halls, some of which are huge. The cave has been inhabited since the Bronze Ages (third millennium before BC) and in the early Iron Ages (12-9 before BC). Traces of dwellings, various labor weapons, ornaments were found. There are guano paintings in the cave; the Gallery with the paintings is 300 meters long by axis. It is amongst the Hundred national Tourist Objectives and together with a forest area of 71 ha has been approved for a nature sight. In one of the cave branches champagne and wine is produced.