The region of Blagoevgrad covers parts of three of the biggest Bulgarian mountain ranges – Rila, Pirin and Rhodope -and is also known as the Pirin region, named after the Pirin Mountains, dominating its territory like a majestic pillar. The city of Blagoevgrad is the major city in the region and one the most important economic and cultural centres in southwest Bulgaria. The main international routes connecting Bulgaria with Greece and Bulgaria with the Republic of Macedonia pass through it. Blagoevgrad also allows easy access to the Bulgarian capital, Sofia, (approximately 100 kilometers to the north) and to all towns in the region. Blagoevgrad is known for the American University in Bulgaria (AUBG), founded there in 1990.