Plovdiv University

Plovdiv University "Paisii Hilendarski" (PU), also known as The Paisii Hilendarski University of Plovdiv, is a public university located in Plovdiv, Bulgaria.

The history of Plovdiv University "Paisii Hilendarski" (PU) can be traced back to 1945, when the University of Plovdiv was inaugurated by a Decree of the Regents' Council of August the 4th. The university was initially structured in two faculties: Medicine and Agriculture and Forestry.

In 1961, the Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry was reorganized as the Higher Teacher-Training Institute of Natural and Mathematical Sciences. In 1973, the university became the first higher institution in Plovdiv to offer language and literature studies, offering B.A. degrees in Bulgarian and Russian Languages and Literature. Soon after, a program in Slavonic Languages and Literature (with specialization in Czech Language and Literature) was added.

In 1985, the university was renamed Plovdiv University "Paisii Hilendarski" in honor of Paisii Hilendarski, a Bulgarian monk and historian who is considered to be the father of Bulgarian nationalism.

Since its founding, PU has grown steadily in size and reputation. Today, it is one of the largest and most prestigious universities in Bulgaria.

PU is also a major center for research. The university has several research centers and institutes that conduct research in a variety of areas, including medicine, agriculture, engineering, and the humanities.

PU has played an important role in the development of Plovdiv and the surrounding region. The university has produced many notable alumni, including politicians, business leaders, and artists. PU is also a major employer in the region and contributes significantly to the local economy.

Plovdiv University is ranked as the #2 top university in Bulgaria during 2024. This is the same rank as last year.