Bulgaria officially adopted the euro on Thursday, ending the use of the lev and becoming the 21st member of the eurozone. The central bank in Sofia marked the milestone with a display of euro coins and a fireworks show.
“At midnight, our money changed. 10,000 leva is now 5,100 euros. It’s all the same, and I think it will be better,” said Stefan Bisterkov, a driving instructor.
The move gives Bulgaria a seat at the European Central Bank’s Governing Council, allowing the country to participate in key monetary decisions.
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Since joining the EU in 2007, Bulgaria has sought to adopt the euro, with public opinion split while businesses largely back the change.
“My expectations are positive. I don’t see any reason to worry. We will only benefit from this change,” said jeweller Antonia Tsvetkova.
Some citizens remain cautious, worried about possible price increases or political instability following last month’s government resignation amid protests over proposed taxes.