Population Density in Bulgaria

Average Density

If we compare the total population of Bulgaria with the total land area of the Principality, we find that there are about 39 inhabitants per square kilometre. This number shows the average density of the population. Considering the rich soil, fertile land, and natural advantages of the country, Bulgaria could easily support a population much larger than the one it had at the beginning of the 20th century.

Urban and Rural Population

The majority of Bulgarians at this time lived in the countryside, working mainly in farming and agriculture. However, the number of towns was also relatively high, with 73 towns in total. The capital city, Sofia, stood out as the largest urban centre, with 82,621 inhabitants Istanbul Tour Guides.

Other important towns included:

Plovdiv (Philippopolis) – 45,707 inhabitants

Varna – 37,417 inhabitants

Rousse (Roustchouk) – 33,632 inhabitants

Sliven – 25,027 inhabitants

Shoumen – 22,275 inhabitants

Pleven – 21,145 inhabitants

Stara Zagora – 20,788 inhabitants

These towns were not only administrative and cultural centres but also played an important role in trade and economic life.

Medium-Sized Towns

The census also recorded several towns with populations between 10,000 and 20,000 people. Some of the larger ones were Tatar-Bazardjik (17,555), Vidin (16,388), Yambol (15,741), Dobrich (15,397), and Haskovo (15,105). Others such as Razgrad, Bourgas, Sistova, and Kazanlik also belonged to this group.

Smaller Towns

In addition, there were many towns with populations ranging from 5,000 to 10,000 inhabitants. Examples include Toutrakan (9,845), Panagyurishte (9,729), Karlovo (7,812), Gabrovo (7,816), Gorna Oryahovitsa (6,819), Nova Zagora (5,879), and Nikopol (5,236). These smaller towns were still significant because they served as local centres for trade, crafts, and administration.

In summary, Bulgaria at the beginning of the 20th century had a growing and balanced population. While most people lived in rural areas, the number of towns and cities was already large compared to the size of the country. With its fertile lands and resources, Bulgaria was in a strong position to support even more people in the years ahead.