Treaty of Bucharest: What Happened
On 10 August 1913, the Treaty of Bucharest was signed between Bulgaria on one side and Greece, Serbia, Romania and Montenegro on the other, ending the Second Balkan War. Bulgaria, defeated on all fronts, was forced to accept harsh terms. Macedonia was divided, with Greece receiving the southern part of the region, including Thessaloniki, Kavala and Serres, and Serbia receiving the north, roughly the territory of modern North Macedonia. Bulgaria kept only a small part of Macedonia and a strip of Thrace with an outlet to the Aegean Sea. Romania took southern Dobruja from Bulgaria. For Greece, the treaty confirmed enormous gains. Together with the results of the First Balkan War, including southern Epirus, Crete and the Aegean islands, Greece's territory grew by about two thirds, and its population rose from about 2.7 million to about 4.8 million. Greece's northern borders, set largely by this treaty, remain much the same today. However, the settlement left deep resentment in Bulgaria and did not resolve the region's national rivalries, which continued into the world wars.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the Treaty of Bucharest?
The Treaty of Bucharest, signed on 10 August 1913, ended the Second Balkan War and divided Macedonia among Greece, Serbia and Bulgaria.
What did Greece gain from the Treaty of Bucharest?
Greece received southern Macedonia, including Thessaloniki, Kavala and Serres, confirming its huge gains from the Balkan Wars.
How much did Greece grow after the Balkan Wars?
Greece's territory grew by about two thirds, and its population rose from about 2.7 million to about 4.8 million.
Are Greece's borders still based on the Treaty of Bucharest?
Yes. Greece's northern mainland borders, set largely by this treaty and the Balkan Wars, remain much the same today, apart from later changes in Thrace.
Did the Treaty of Bucharest bring lasting peace?
No. The settlement left deep resentment in Bulgaria and did not resolve national rivalries, which continued into the world wars.
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