Krichim Park; photo Diana Mladenova
In 2026, the Landscape Architecture program at the University of Forestry will celebrate 75 years since its inception — 75 years dedicated to developing sustainable green spaces and beautiful environments for living. It all began in 1951, when the “Urban Green Construction” program was established within the Faculty of Forestry at what was then the Agricultural Academy, Sofia. In January 1953, the program moved to the newly founded Higher Forestry Institute under the name “Landscaping/Greening of Settlements.” Over the decades, the program evolved dynamically — from “Garden and Park Construction” (1954) and later “Landscaping/Greening” (1962), to its current title “Landscape Architecture”, adopted in 1994. This marked its alignment with international educational standards and the guidelines of the International Federation of Landscape Architects (IFLA).
Knowledge with a Mission
Throughout its 75-year history, the Department of Landscape Architecture has played a leading role in advancing the science of urban greening and sustainable landscape planning in Bulgaria. The established innovative curricula led to interdisciplinary research. The well-trained specialists who continue to shape the appearance of modern cities and parks.
Practice with Proven Impact
The professional
achievements of its graduates are the clearest testament to the program’s
quality and significance. Bulgarian landscape architects have contributed to
the design and realization of hundreds of notable projects, both at home and
abroad — from major urban parks and green infrastructure to master plans and
interior greening.
Without their work, our cities would not have the parks and gardens, pedestrian zones, revitalized urban spaces, and harmonious green cores that enrich our daily lives. Landscape architecture remains a key factor in creating healthier, more socially vibrant, and more sustainable environments for everyone.
Looking Ahead
As we look back and reflect on the accumulated experience and tradition, we look ahead with confidence. The new generations of landscape architects will continue to design and develop our surroundings so that tomorrow is greener, more beautiful, and better for people. With deep gratitude to everyone who, over the decades, has contributed to this legacy — faculty, students, colleagues, and partners — we mark this anniversary as a promise for many more years dedicated to the harmony between people and nature.
The European Council of Landscape Architecture Schools (ECLAS), is an association of university teachers and researchers in landscape architecture, whose main membership consists of university departments and faculties where landscape architecture teaching and research is the main focus of activity.
University of Forestry with its Department Landscape Architecture is a member of ECLAS.
International Federation of Landscape Architects (IFLA) is a not-for-profit, non-political, non-governmental organization and officially represents the world body of landscape architects through its member associations and regions. The mission is to promote the landscape architecture profession within a collaborative partnership of the allied built-environment professions, demanding the highest standards of education, training, research and professional practice, and providing leadership and stewardship in all matters.
Union of Landscape Architects in Bulgaria (ULAB) is a non-profit association founded in 2004 and represents its members Landscape architects. ULAB is a member of IFLA Europe.
Union of Landscape Architects in Bulgaria (ULAB) is a non-profit organization of Landscape architects in Bulgaria. It was established in 2004 and is a continuer of other organizations of specialists in the field with the aim to consolidate the efforts of landscape architects in Bulgaria in their professional practice. An important goal is promoting Landscape Architecture in state and municipal institutions’ works and regulations as well in the society. ULAB advises, develops and expresses expert opinions in the field of landscapes and urban green areas; organises and conducts competitions in the field of Landscape architecture and awards outstanding projects and realizations; assists in the development of education in Landscape architecture.
The annual event of ULAB is LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT OF THE YEAR. The 2026 edition will be part of the anniversary event of the 75 YEARS LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE EDUCATION at the UNIVERSITY of FORESTRY, SOFIA, organized by the Department of LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE, University of Forestry, Sofia.