Belitsa is one of the oldest settlements in Bulgaria with a history dates back to 8000 years BC. Belitsa is situated in the mountanious area which includes Rila and Rhodope Mountains in the Southwestern part of Bulgaria. Approximately 9.786 people are living in Belitsa. Majority of the population is Muslim which contains the %74.7 of the population. Local economy of Belitsa is based on wood processing industry. City was also a part of United Nations Development Program between 2003-2007. Belitsa is also a winter tourism center of Bulgaria due to the presence of skiing resorts in Semovko a town in Rila Mountain. Belitsa is a member of B40 Balkan Cities Network.