Area size - 3 585 km2
Population 2004 - 166 400
Major City - Montana, population 44 500
Montana is the center of the administrative region. It is situated in northwestern Bulgaria along the Ogosta River. The town originates from the old Roman stronghold Castra ad Montanezium (a stronghold in the mountain), known also as Montana. The labor tools, ornaments, coins etc. found there reveal a long life of the village that was initially established on Calebair Hill on the left side of the river. It is from here that a blazing spring started and is now an integral factor for the town. The passing roads played a great role in the development of the town.
Region of Montana has developed various industries. Traditionally evoked branches are - machine building, metalworking, production of electrical machines and equipment, extraction of pit materials and mineral raw material, tailoring, food and beverage industry. The big industrial plants are situated in the regional center Montana. The rest of the working enterprises are situated in Lom, Berkovitza and Varshetz.