what is balkan

The Balkans, also known as the Balkan Peninsula, is a geographical and cultural region in southeastern Europe. It is characterized by various geographical and historical definitions, and there is not universal agreement on the region's components. The region takes its name from the Balkan Mountains that stretch throughout the whole of Bulgaria. The Balkans are known for their complex histories, diverse linguistic, religious, ethnic, and national groups, as well as their rich architecture, cuisine, and natural landscapes. The countries that are sometimes considered to be entirely or partially part of the Balkans include Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Greece, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovenia, and Turkey. The term "Balkan" is derived from a Turkish word that means "mountain," which is appropriate given the mountainous nature of the region