History of Bulgarian Independence Day
Declaration of Independence
On September 22, 1908, in Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria proudly proclaimed independence from the Ottoman Empire through a manifesto signed by King Ferdinand. The Principality became a Crown state recognized by the Porte and Great Powers, later celebrated as a public holiday after ratification by the Bulgarian National Assembly on September 10, 1998, according to the Julian calendar corresponding to October 5. Witnessing the celebrations personally, the festive countdown to this day brings alive the historical pride and unity of Bulgarians.
Russo-Turkish War
The Russo-Turkish War (1877-78) marked a turning point for Bulgaria, ending five centuries of Ottoman rule. The San Stefano peace treaty reshaped Europe, responding to atrocities, uprisings, and revolts, while Russia gained international condemnation for its actions during the war. Neighboring Serbian conflicts and reduced land adjustments redrew the map of Europe, laying the foundation for the modern Bulgarian state.
Nationalism and Ottoman Decline
From the fall of the Ottoman Empire in 1396 to the late nineteenth century, rising nationalism across Europe accelerated the break up of the empire, especially in the western parts. Suppression and horrific events fostered public awareness and eventual political change, paving the way for Bulgaria’s struggle for independence.
Borders of Bulgaria
Geography and Location
Located in Southeastern Europe, Bulgaria is a Republic with a population of 7,019,624 and density 168. Spanning 41,915 square miles, 74% urbanized, it borders the Black Sea, Romania, Serbia, Macedonia, Turkey, and Greece. During Independence Day, the festive countdown fills cities and towns along borders with music, flags, and local pride, creating a truly festive atmosphere.
International Organizations
Since 1991, Bulgaria has joined NATO, the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe, the European Union, the United Nations, and the Council of Europe, reflecting its democratic republic status and international recognition. Independence celebrations often emphasize these memberships, blending modern political alliances with historical triumphs.
Neighboring Countries
Sharing borders with Romania, Serbia, Macedonia, Turkey, and Greece, Bulgaria has diverse ethnic groups, languages, and political statuses. Independence Day celebrations in border regions highlight shared history while emphasizing national unity through the festive counter and local traditions.
Key Figures of Bulgaria
Dobri Voynikov
Dobri Voynikov, a Bulgarian teacher, playwright, and journalist, created influential works like The Phoney Civilization in Şumnu during the Ottoman Empire between 1833-1878, inspiring cultural pride ahead of independence.
Vasil Levski
Known as the Bulgarian revolutionary hero, Vasil Levski from Karlovo, Rumelia (1837-1873) dedicated his life to freedom, shaping modern national consciousness and being celebrated during Independence Day.
Hadzhi Dimitar
Hadzhi Dimitar, a Bulgarian military leader and revolutionary under Ottoman rule, active in İslimiye and Adrianople Eyalet (1840-1868), symbolizes bravery in the pursuit of liberation.
Khristo Botev
Khristo Botev, the Bulgarian poet and nationalist revolutionary from Kalofer (1848-1876), combined literary talent and patriotic fervor, often remembered during the festive countdown on Independence Day.
Ivan Vazov
Ivan Vazov, Bulgarian poet, novelist, and playwright (1850-1921), authored Under the Yoke, narrating struggles under Ottoman rule, enriching national identity celebrated yearly.
Emanuil Manolov
Emanuil Manolov, the Bulgarian composer of the 1st Bulgarian opera, Siromahkinia, hailing from Gabrovo (1860-1902), left cultural contributions celebrated during national festivities.
Aleko Konstantinov
Aleko Konstantinov, Bulgarian writer of To Chicago & Back (1863-1897), enriched Bulgarian literature with social satire reflecting cultural and political awareness.
Petar Danov
Petar Danov, Bulgarian spiritual teacher (1864-1944) from Nikolaevka, emphasized moral and cultural education, integral to national pride.
Hristo Tatarchev
Hristo Tatarchev, Macedonian Bulgarian revolutionary of VMORO (1869-1952) from Resen, Ottoman Empire, organized resistance movements inspiring future generations.
Panayot Pipkov
Panayot Pipkov, Bulgarian bandmaster and composer (1871-1942) from Plovdiv, left his mark with education and music, celebrated culturally during Independence Day.
Gotse Delchev
Gotse Delchev, Macedonian Bulgarian revolutionary (1872-1903) from Kukush, contributed to liberation campaigns and national consciousness.
Albert Aftalion
Albert Aftalion, Bulgarian-French economist (1874-1956) from Rusçuk, linked Bulgarian economic ideas to European thought, enriching historical discourse.
Dobri Hristov
Dobri Hristov, Bulgarian composer and music director (1875-1941), known for choral works at Seven Saints Church Sofia and Varna, contributed to national cultural heritage.
Dimitur Poljanov
Dimitur Poljanov Popov (1876-1953), Bulgarian poet, created Iron Verses, celebrated in literary circles during Independence Day.
Elin Pelin
Elin Pelin, birth name Dimitar Ivanov Stoyanov (1877-1949), Bulgarian writer of The Gerak Family, depicted rural life, connecting citizens to cultural roots during festivities.
National things and symbols of Bulgaria
National Flag
Bulgaria’s flag has three horizontal stripes: white (top) symbolizes peace and love, green (middle) represents the fertile land, and red (bottom) stands for courage and the blood of those who defended the country.
National Coat of Arms
The coat of arms shows a golden lion on a dark red shield, crowned and supported by two lions, with oak branches and a crown on top, symbolizing strength, unity, and Bulgarian sovereignty.
National Anthem
The national anthem is “Mila Rodino” (Dear Motherland), a song that expresses pride, love, and loyalty to Bulgaria, often sung at official events and Independence Day celebrations.
National Day
The Independence Day of Bulgaria is on September 22, celebrating freedom from the Ottoman Empire in 1908. Another important national holiday is March 3, commemorating liberation from Ottoman rule in 1878.
National Animal
The Bulgarian Lion represents bravery, courage, and strength, featured on the coat of arms and in cultural symbolism.
National Flower
The Rosa Damascena (Damask Rose) is a key symbol, grown mainly in the Rose Valley, used for rose oil production, and celebrated in festivals each spring.
National Tree
The Oak tree symbolizes endurance, resilience, and longevity, often associated with Bulgarian folklore and traditions.
National Instruments
Bulgaria has traditional musical instruments like the kaval (wooden flute), gaida (bagpipe), and tupan (drum), used in folk music and celebrations.
National Costume
Bulgaria’s folk costumes vary by region but are known for colorful embroidery, symbolic patterns, and decorative belts, worn during festivals and cultural events.
National Dish
The traditional Bulgarian dish banitsa (pastry with cheese) and shopska salad are considered national foods, often served during celebrations and family gatherings.
National Sport
Wrestling and weightlifting are historically significant sports in Bulgaria, while football (soccer) is the most popular today.
Currency and Population
Population
As of 2023, Bulgaria has a population of 6,827,736 inhabitants, with a crude natural change rate of -6.6‰ in 2022. Population repartition includes 14.2% urban, 23.5% rural, foreign residents, EU nationals 0.1%, non-EU 1.2%, and first-time asylum applicants numbering 22,510. Life expectancy stands at 72 for men and 79.6 for women, with religions comprising Orthodox Christian 64.7%, Muslim 9.8%, others 0.1%, none 3.7%, unspecified 20.7%, as reported by Eurostat, World Factbook, ECB.
Economy
The Bulgarian currency Lev (BGN) maintains a fixed exchange rate 1€=1.96 BGN, with euro adoption planned for 1 January 2026. GDP reaches €93,948 million, per capita €7,850, with GDP growth 1.8%, inflation 2.5%, public debt 22.1%, unemployment 5.3%, and FDI 69.4%, mainly in food industry, tourism, and petrochemistry. Independence Day festivities often highlight economic growth and cultural prosperity.
Tourist Places in Bulgaria
Sofia
Sofia, the capital city, combines history and modern life with ancient churches, Roman ruins, and bustling markets, making Independence Day celebrations memorable.
Plovdiv
Plovdiv, one of Europe’s oldest cities, charms visitors with Roman theaters, cobbled streets, and a vibrant cultural scene, ideal for festive activities.
Veliko Tarnovo
Veliko Tarnovo, historic medieval capital along the Yantra River, features a fortress, old town, and scenic views, central to Independence Day commemorations.
Rila Monastery
Rila Monastery, a spiritual landmark in the Rila Mountains, showcases intricate architecture and frescoes, reflecting Bulgarian cultural heritage.
Pirin National Park
Pirin National Park offers mountains, scenery, glacial lakes, and hiking opportunities, attracting nature lovers during the Independence Day long weekend.
Burgas & Black Sea Coast
Burgas, on the Black Sea, combines sandy beaches, parks, and lively atmosphere, where the festive countdown brings locals and tourists together.
Etar Architectural Ethnographic Complex
Etar, an open-air museum in Gabrovo, preserves Bulgarian architecture, crafts, and folk culture, adding cultural depth to Independence Day.
Varna
Varna, a major Black Sea city, offers beach life, historical landmarks, museums, and nightlife, complementing Independence Day festivities.
Old Nessebar
Old Nessebar, an ancient town on a peninsula, features cobbled streets, churches, and historical past, enhancing celebratory tours.
Zheravna
Zheravna, a picturesque village, highlights Bulgarian National Revival architecture, rustic charm, and craftsmanship, popular during national celebrations.