Bulgaria adopts the euro, nearly 20 years after joining the EU

Bulgaria on Thursday became the 21st country to switch to the euro, a milestone met with both cheers and fears, nearly 20 years after the Balkan nation joined the European Union. At midnight (2200 GMT Wednesday), Bulgaria gave up the lev, in use since the late 19th century, and Bulgarian euro coins were projected onto the central bank's building. "I

Bulgaria becomes 21st country to join the euro, deepening EU ties despite fears

On New Year's Day, Bulgaria became the 21st country to join the euro currency union, furthering its integration into the European Union. But the historic milestone arrives amid political instability and skepticism among ordinary people fueled by fears of price rises. Supporters of switching to the euro from the old currency, the lev, are praising the

Galleries and videos