Bulgaria has officially joined the eurozone, becoming its 21st member. This move replaces the Bulgarian lev, a currency in use since 1881. Economically weaker than its neighbors, Bulgaria leaps ahead of countries like Poland, the Czech Republic, and Hungary. Many young urban Bulgarians see this as a hopeful step into Europe’s core markets. However, older and rural communities feel fear and resentment. "I don't want the euro, and I don't like the way it has been imposed on us," said Todor, a small business owner in Gabrovo. Bulgaria’s population of 6.5 million is roughly split on the euro adoption. Despite proposals, no referendum was held on the change. The current political environment is rocky—Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov’s government recently lost a confidence vote after protests. Ognian Enev, a tea shop owner in Sofia, shared a different view: "On the whole, it's a good thing. It's just a technical change. It doesn't bother me." He noted people already price goods like flats and cars in euros and that over 1.2 million Bulgarians abroad send money home in euros. Since August 2025, shops must show prices in both lev and euro. Until January end, both currencies will be accepted, but change must be given in euros. From February 1, payment in lev stops. On the new euro coins, Bulgaria features national heroes and symbols like St Ivan of Rila and the Madara rider, easing sovereignty concerns. Authorities are watching prices to prevent inflation fears. For example, Sofia’s public transport cost will decrease slightly. The euro’s exact rate is €1 = 1.95583 lev. Public opinion remains divided, and future impacts are uncertain. Some hope Bulgaria will follow the successful 'Baltic model' of euro adoption, while others fear it may resemble Italy’s economic stagnation. "I'm afraid we'll be more like Italy," Ognian predicted.