Medieval Bulgaria, established in the 7th century, was a significant state in Southeast Europe. It reached its peak during the First Bulgarian Empire (681-1018), known for its cultural and political influence. The capital, Pliska, became a center of learning and the arts, fostering the development of the Cyrillic alphabet. The Second Bulgarian Empire (1185-1396) followed, marked by territorial expansion and conflicts with neighboring powers like the Byzantine Empire and Ottoman Empire. This period saw a flourishing of Orthodox Christianity, with the construction of impressive churches and monasteries, such as the Rila Monastery, which remains a symbol of Bulgarian heritage.