Pernik Region is situated in West Bulgaria. It borders the regions of Sofia, Kyustendil and Sofia City. Its north-western boundary coincides with the national border with Serbia. This region lies in the valley of Pernik, Radomir and Breznik and includes parts of the mountains of Verila, Vitosha, Lyulin, Viskiar, etc. The rivers of Struma and Erma run through the region. There are mineral springs near the towns of Breznik and Rudartzi. Ostritza Reserve in the mountain of Golo Bardo, the cliffs of Zemen, the gorge of Erma River, Duhlata Cave (the longest cave in Bulgaria) and other natural landmarks offer conditions for development of ecotourism. The region is abundant in mineral resources. There are rich deposits of coal, ores, clays, limestone, which determines the development of industry as the main economic sector. The area of the nowaday Pernik was an impregnable fortress – a residence of the famous chieftain Krakra who resisted and remained undefeated by the army of the Byzantine Emperor Basil II, surnamed Bulgaroktonus (“Bulgarian slayer”). The preserved fortresses and ancient settlements, medieval churches and monasteries are a prerequisite for development of cultural tourism in this region.