SOFIA, April 17 (Xinhua) -- The European Greco-Roman, Freestyle and Women Wrestling Championships opened in Bulgaria's capital of Sofia on Tuesday.

    Nearly 500 entrants of the record-high number of 40 countries are taking part, two countries more than in previous championships in Moscow in 2006.

    This is the biggest wrestling event in Europe and by far the biggest sport event in Bulgaria this year.

    Attending the opening ceremony were Chairperson of the Bulgarian Olympic Committee Stefka Kostadinova, FILA President Raphael Martinetti, FILA's European Committee (CELA) President Tsenyo Tsenov and the President of the Bulgarian Wrestling Federation Valentin Yordanov.

    The champioships will continue until April 22.