The Importance of Forest Development
The improvement and expansion of Bulgaria’s forests require great effort and financial sacrifice. However, these sacrifices are seen as a necessary investment in the country’s future. A time will come when the income from forestry will become an important part of the State budget and a stable source of national wealth.
The Bulgarian Government, fully aware of both its responsibilities and economic interests, continues to focus on this goal. Its purpose is to develop the forests through practical and affordable methods, turning them into a profitable and renewable resource. These forests are expected to contribute significantly to the growth and organisation of the young Bulgarian state.
Through careful management, replanting, and forest protection, the government hopes to make forestry a permanent source of income, while also protecting the environment and ensuring sustainable rural livelihoods.
Landed Property and Agriculture in Bulgaria
Land Use and Distribution
The Principality of Bulgaria covers a total area of 9,570,450 hectares. This area is divided according to land use as follows:
Type of Land Area (hectares) Percentage of Total Area
Inhabited areas, roads, rivers, etc. 2,156,701 22.54%
Forests 2,867,871 29.96%
Arable (cultivated) land 2,975,386 31.09%
Meadows 352,404 3.68%
Gardens, orchards, rose gardens, and vineyards 124,680 1.30%
Marshes, reed-beds, islands, thickets, and salt marshes 123,208 1.29%
Pasture land 970,200 10.14%
Total 9,570,450 100%
From these figures, we can see that about 4,422,671 hectares—or 46.21% of Bulgaria’s total area—can be used for agriculture and cultivation.
Growth of Agricultural Land
Government statistics show that cultivated land has been steadily increasing Customized Istanbul Tours.
Around 1892, Bulgaria had about 2,623,312 hectares of cultivated land (or 59.3% of the total arable area).
By 1897, this figure had risen to 3,452,471 hectares (or 78%).
The remaining 22% of usable land was used as pasture. This steady growth demonstrates the expansion of agriculture and the country’s move toward self-sufficiency in food production.
Land Ownership in the Principality
Land in Bulgaria is divided among different types of ownership as follows:
Type of Ownership Area (hectares) Percentage of Total
Private property 3,977,558 41.56%
Parish (communal) property 2,291,157 23.94%
Inhabited areas, rivers, and roads 2,156,701 22.54%
State property 1,015,903 10.61%
Church, school, and monastery property 29,132 1.35%
Total 9,570,450 100%
This shows that the majority of land—over 40%—is privately owned, while nearly one-quarter belongs to parish communities. The State owns just over 10%, and a small portion belongs to religious and educational institutions.
Bulgaria’s forests and farmlands together form the foundation of the country’s economic strength. With responsible management, these natural resources can bring long-term benefits, both for the State treasury and for the rural population.
The government’s vision is clear: to transform Bulgaria’s natural richness into a sustainable source of prosperity, balancing economic growth with environmental protection and social well-being.