Bulgaria

State Control Over Salt Matches and Cigarette Paper

The most important part of this law is that the State has taken exclusive control over importing, making, and wholesaling salt, matches, and cigarette paper. The government hopes to increase its income from these products by managing them itself.

Change in Tobacco Duty Payment

The law also states that in the future, the tax on tobacco and Mourouril must be paid in gold instead of silver. This change will help the State hold more gold and reduce expenses that the State Treasury used to have because of the difference in value between gold and silver Istanbul Daily Tours.

Law on Compulsory Labor and Road Taxes

A law about compulsory labor and taxes for State and local roads was approved by a royal decree on January 12, 1904, and published on January 20, 1904. This law changes the previous rule by requiring that the tax must now be paid in cash. It also includes new rules that make it easier to collect money from those who previously avoided paying this tax.

Law on Military Tax

There is also a new law about military tax. Under the old law, people who did not serve in the army paid between ten and five hundred francs. The new law divides this tax into fifteen categories, with amounts from ten to one thousand francs. This means that the tax is now more detailed and can vary more based on different cases.

Increased State Revenue

Languages Spoken in Bulgaria

Variety of Languages

At the beginning of the 20th century, Bulgaria was not only a land of ethnic diversity but also of many different languages. The census records show that the majority of the people spoke Bulgarian, but many other languages were used in daily life. This reflected both the history of the Balkans and the presence of minority groups who had lived in the region for centuries.

For example, there were:

German speakers – about 5,000 people (2,339 men and 2,682 women).

French speakers – around 643 people.

Italian speakers – over 800 people.

Romanian speakers – more than 83,000 people.

Tzigan (Roma) speakers – about 95,000 people.

Albanian speakers – around 1,300 people.

Hungarian speakers – nearly 900 people.

English speakers – just over 100 people.

Arab and Persian speakers, and a small number of people using other non-Slavic languages.

This wide range of vernacular languages shows how connected Bulgaria was to neighboring states and to the wider world.

Religions in the Principality

Orthodox Majority

Religion also played a central role in Bulgarian society. The census showed that the great majority of the population were Eastern Orthodox Christians. Most of the people who spoke Bulgarian, Russian, Serbian, or Greek belonged to this confession Istanbul Tour Guides.

Catholics and Protestants

Alongside the Orthodox, there were smaller communities of Catholics and Protestants. Many of these were linked with foreign settlers, such as Germans, Hungarians, and Italians. For example, the census recorded more than 1,200 German Catholics and a significant number of German Protestants. French and Italian settlers also contributed to the Catholic minority.

Jews, Armenians, and Muslims

Bulgaria was also home to other religious groups.

The Jewish community spoke their own dialects and mainly lived in towns.

The Armenians had both Orthodox and Catholic members.

Muslims, including Turkish and Tatar speakers, formed another important group, especially in some regions of the country.

A Diverse but United Nation

The data shows that although Bulgarians formed the majority, the Principality had many small communities with their own languages and religions. Each group contributed to the culture, economy, and traditions of the land.

Bulgaria’s Determination to Progress

The Principality of Bulgaria is firmly determined to continue along the path of progress it has chosen for itself. The young nation is always ready to take advantage of opportunities to show Europe its commitment to development and modern civilization. Despite limited resources, Bulgaria has taken part in international projects designed to promote the progress of the world.

One example is its participation in the International Exhibitions held in Liège and Milan. At these events, visitors from all over Europe could see the real progress Bulgaria had made in different areas of its national economy, such as agriculture, crafts, and industry. These exhibitions allowed Bulgaria to present itself not only as a country recovering from centuries of hardship but also as a nation eager to contribute to global progress.

Purpose of This Work

The present volume was prepared by its authors to give readers a clearer picture of Bulgaria. It is meant to supplement the knowledge of those who visit the Bulgarian Section of the Balkan Exhibition currently held in London. However, the book is not only useful for visitors. It can also be read with interest and profit by anyone who wishes to learn more about the country, its history, geography, and people Turkey Sightseeing.

The Country and the People

The Rocks of Belogradchik

Among Bulgaria’s most remarkable natural sights are the Rocks of Belogradchik. These massive stone formations are unique in shape and beauty. They rise dramatically above the surrounding land, inspiring legends and attracting the admiration of travelers. Today, they are considered one of Bulgaria’s greatest natural wonders.

Geography of Bulgaria

Mountains

From a geographical perspective, Bulgaria enjoys a fortunate combination of mountain ranges and fertile plains. High mountains form protective chains, while broad valleys stretch across the land. Many mountain peaks rise to more than 2,000 meters above sea level, creating a striking contrast with the valleys, which lie at an average height of 200 meters.

This landscape gives Bulgaria both natural beauty and economic advantages. The mountains provide forests, pastureland, and natural resources, while the plains are ideal for farming. This balance between mountains and fertile valleys has shaped not only the country’s physical character but also the lives of its people.

Michael Anemas and His Family

A Story of Loyalty, Betrayal, and Mercy

The Conversion of Anemas

After the capture of Crete and the relocation of his family to Constantinople, one of the emir’s sons, Anemas, made an important choice. He accepted Christianity and entered the service of the Byzantine Empire. His loyalty to his new homeland was proven during the reign of Emperor John I Tzimiskes. Anemas fought bravely in the war against the Russians, showing great courage in battle. His bravery was recognized when he faced the Russian king, Sviatoslav, in single combat. Though he fought with honor, Anemas was killed in that encounter, leaving behind a reputation of courage and sacrifice.

The Martial Spirit of the Anemas Family

The warrior spirit did not die with him. Later generations of the family continued to serve in the imperial army. During the reign of Emperor Alexios I Komnenos, Michael Anemas and his three brothers became prominent figures. Like their ancestors, they were soldiers, known for their strength and courage. However, their loyalty faltered when they became involved in a conspiracy against Alexios.

When the plot was discovered, the brothers were arrested. Their punishment was to be both severe and humiliating: imprisonment and the loss of their eyes. In Byzantine tradition, blinding was a common method to ensure that political opponents could never rule or pose a threat again Private Balkan Tours.

Public Humiliation and Punishment

The Byzantines often added public humiliation to punishment in order to discourage future conspiracies. Michael Anemas and his brothers were dressed in rough sacks. Their beards were plucked, their heads were shaved, and grotesque crowns made from animal horns and intestines were placed on them. Forced to ride sideways on oxen, they were paraded first through the courtyard of the Great Palace and then along the Mese, the main street of Constantinople, packed with curious and excited citizens.

But instead of laughing, the crowd reacted with pity. The pain and despair of Michael, who begged to be executed rather than blinded, moved the people deeply.

The Intervention of Anna Komnene and the Empress

Among the witnesses was Anna Komnene, the emperor’s daughter and famous historian. Though she had reasons to despise the conspirators, she was so touched by Michael’s suffering that she appealed to her mother, the empress, for help. Together, they pleaded with Emperor Alexios to show mercy.

At first, it seemed too late. The prisoners were on their way to the Amastrianon, a place in the city associated with final judgment. Tradition held that once a criminal passed this point, imperial mercy could no longer save them. But just before the men reached it, a messenger arrived with the emperor’s pardon.

Imprisonment in the Tower of Anemas

The punishment of blinding was lifted, but Michael Anemas was still sent to prison. He was confined in the tower that would later carry his name—the Tower of Anemas. There he spent many years until he was eventually pardoned and released.

Austrian Officers and Local Sentiments

In Sarajevo, Austrian officers in uniform are seen often and appear to be well-liked by many. People from all walks of life seem generally grateful to have been freed from the rule of the “unspeakable Turk,” a term that reflects the painful memories of the Ottoman Empire’s harsh rule.

However, even though Austria has brought order and improvements, older generations—fathers and mothers—still find it difficult to fully trust their new rulers. Their suspicion and fear come from centuries of past oppression, cruelty, and corruption. These emotions are deeply rooted in the culture and passed down through generations, making it hard for people to adjust to new leadership.

The Beautiful Setting of Sarajevo

Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia, is located in a beautiful valley surrounded by scenic mountains. The city is divided into two parts by the Miljacka River, a fast-flowing stream filled with white-water rapids that rush over a rocky riverbed.

The river is crossed by nine or ten artistic bridges, some of which are very old and covered with lichens—small plant-like growths that show the passage of time. These bridges connect to wide, tree-lined streets that climb gently up the surrounding mountains, providing both easy access and good drainage for the city.

A City of Color and Character

From a distance, Sarajevo appears as if it were built in layers or terraces. The green lines of trees planted along the streets contrast beautifully with the red roofs of the buildings, creating a striking pattern of natural and human-made colors.

In many parts of the city, you’ll find lush private gardens, often hidden from public view. These gardens are reached through arched entrances built in the Oriental architectural style, showing the city’s cultural blend of East and West.

Clean Water and Public Beauty

Sarajevo has an excellent supply of fresh, clean water that comes from the surrounding mountains. This water is used for everyday needs and also flows into the many fountains that decorate the interior courtyards (patios) of homes and gardens, adding beauty and peace to the city’s living spaces Sofia Daily Tours.

A City on the Rise

Although parts of the residential areas are still developing and not completely filled in, Sarajevo is quickly modernizing. In terms of architecture, planning, and overall appearance, the city compares well with other towns of similar size in Europe or America.

Religious Communities (Millets) in Turkey

In Turkey, everyone is expected to belong to a religious group, also called a millet. Each person must be registered under one of these communities, no matter how rich or poor they are. There are many millets in Turkey. Some of the main ones are:

Roman Catholic, Greek Orthodox, Armenian, Jewish, Protestant, Bulgarian, Maronite, Nestorian, Greek Roman Catholic

Each millet has its own religious leaders. In theory, these leaders are responsible for their community’s religion, schools, hospitals, monasteries, and charitable services. They are also supposed to have some legal authority in matters related to their community.

Religious Freedom in Theory, But Not Always in Practice

In theory, every millet is allowed to practice its religion freely. Members also have the right to appeal to their religious leader for help if they are in trouble with the law. On paper, the leader of the millet is the official link between the Turkish government and the members of that community.

But in real life, these rights are often ignored. If someone is accused of a crime, the Turkish police often arrest them immediately. Many times, the person is thrown in jail without a fair trial, and they may not get any help from their millet leader. Most of the time, the only way out of prison is if their family pays money or a foreign diplomat steps in to protect them.

How Embassy Courts Work in Turkey

Foreign citizens in Turkey are usually tried in embassy courts that follow the laws of their home country, not Turkish law. These courts do not follow Turkish procedures. Everything is done just as it would be done back home Guided Tour Ephesus.

For example, in the United States embassy court, there are legal staff just like in the U.S., such as:

A clerk of court, A U.S. marshal, Judges and other legal officers, There is even a U.S. prison to hold people accused of breaking American laws while in Turkey.

Not All Countries Have the Same Level of Activity

The United States court in Turkey does not have much work to do because there are only about 200 Americans living there. Most of them are missionaries, and they rarely get involved in legal problems.

Research at the Pergamon Amphitheater

Research at the Pergamon Amphitheater (2018–2021)

Understanding Ancient Construction and Its Environmental Impact

Between 2018 and 2021, researchers carried out archaeological and historical building studies at the Amphitheater of Pergamon. One of the most important results was the discovery of different construction phases of the amphitheater. By carefully studying the building remains, experts could understand how the structure changed over time Sofia City Tour.

This research also helps us learn how the landscape was transformed during and after the construction process. By studying the location and the methods used to extract stone and other resources, researchers can better understand how construction affected the environment.

Interestingly, since the amphitheater was only used as a performance venue and did not go through many later changes, it gives us a rare chance to estimate the total amount of building material used. This makes it a very valuable case study in ancient building economy and engineering.

Rebuilding the Dionysos Temple

Construction Techniques and Social Context By Annika Zeitler

The ancient Dionysos Temple in Pergamon, from the Hellenistic period, shows clear signs of early reuse. It appears that the temple was taken apart and rebuilt in nearly the same way, but possibly with shortened or modified parts.

This process brings up important social and economic questions. What kind of workforce was needed to do this? What were the skills of the craftsmen involved? What kind of planning was required on the building site?

By studying the reused stones and construction techniques, we can gain insight into the organization of ancient construction projects, how resources were managed, and how society worked together to complete complex architectural tasks. It also helps us understand how the ecological system was taken into account during large building efforts.

The “Octagon” of Pergamon

A Monumental Project Outside the City Walls By Seçil Tezer Altay

On the lower slopes of the Pergamon hill, a new monumental building—called the “Octagon”—was planned. It was located outside the old city walls, facing what was then considered the modern part of Pergamon, which was growing toward the Kaikos River plain.

At this time, the ancient hilltop city had already been crowned with a large marble temple, while the new parts of the city were being filled with impressive public buildings. Nearby, on another hilltop, a rich residential area was also developing, with a perfect view of both the ancient city and the green valley below.

Bulgaria’s Top Winter Ski Resort

While Mount Vitosha near Sofia offers enjoyable and low-cost skiing for beginners and casual skiers, it doesn’t match the full experience available at Bansko, Bulgaria’s number one winter resort. Located 150 km southeast of Sofia, Bansko is easy to reach and offers a wide range of both on-piste (ski slope) and off-piste (freestyle and backcountry) activities.

Bansko is well developed and welcoming to tourists, with modern ski facilities, cozy hotels, traditional restaurants, and a lively après-ski scene. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced skier, the resort has something for everyone—including snowboarding, snowshoeing, spa visits, and cultural tours in the old town Coastal Bulgaria Holidays.

If you’re planning a trip, don’t miss the “Bansko In Your Pocket” guide. It provides detailed local information, including where to stay, eat, and what to see. To access it, visit www.inyourpocket.com and click on “Bansko.”

Arriving in Sofia First Impressions

Your first few minutes in Sofia, Bulgaria’s capital, might feel a bit overwhelming—especially if you don’t read Cyrillic (the local alphabet) and if airport staff aren’t too eager to speak English. But don’t worry! A little patience and a good sense of humor will go a long way in helping you settle in smoothly.

Getting to Sofia by Plane

Sofia International Airport is located about 10 km east of the city center. The airport has two terminals:

Terminal 1: Older and used mainly by low-cost carriers.

Terminal 2: Modern and more frequently used by national and international airlines.

Both terminals have cafés, car rental desks, ATMs, and currency exchange booths. However, exchange rates at the airport are usually poor, so only exchange enough money for basic needs like transport.

Getting to the City Center

Avoid taxi scams by skipping the people who approach you inside the airport. Instead, go directly to the official yellow taxi rank outside the terminal. A trip to the city center should cost no more than 10 Bulgarian leva (around €5).

Another option is to take the public bus:

Bus 84 from Terminal 1

Bus 284 from Terminal 2

Both buses go to Orlov Most near the city center and run every 10 to 15 minutes from 05:00 to 23:00. Tickets cost 0.70 leva if bought from the kiosk by the stop, or 0.80 leva from the driver. If you have large luggage, you must buy an extra ticket per bag, or you may face a fine if checked by inspectors.

Final Tips

Moving Beyond Blame

Some time ago, people criticized Bulgaria and questioned her reputation. However, it’s the job of history—not politics—to decide who was truly at fault. Right now, Bulgaria must focus on the present, not the past. There are more urgent and serious issues that need attention.

The Future of the Slavic People

The Slavic nations are at a turning point. The outcome of the great war (World War I) will decide whether they are freed or face worse oppression. Russia, the traditional protector of the Slavs, is now fighting alongside England and France, who have always supported freedom and independence in Europe.

The Allies and Their Mission

The goal of Russia, England, and France is to defeat German militarism, which threatens the peace and independence of small nations all across Europe. If the Allies succeed in breaking this dangerous power, then all Slavic countries, including Bulgaria, will gain—both in territory and in freedom Guided Tours Turkey.

The Risk of Defeat

But if the Allies fail or only partially succeed, then all Slavic nations will suffer—especially Bulgaria. The old enemy of the Slavs, the Ottoman Turks, have joined forces with Germany and Austria in the Pan-Germanic League. If these powers win, the Turks might return to Europe and take back the lands they once controlled—lands they ruled with cruelty and violence for centuries.

Bulgaria’s Difficult Position

Nationalization of Private Businesses in Bulgaria

The Beginning of Nationalization

On 18 December 1947, the Politburo of the Central Committee of the Bulgarian Communist Party approved a draft bill to nationalize all private industrial and mining enterprises. Just five days later, on 23 December 1947, the Grand National Assembly officially passed the bill, making it law.

This law marked the beginning of one of the most dramatic economic transformations in Bulgarian history. It allowed the state to take ownership of businesses in key industries such as:

Metalworking

Mining

Textiles

Construction

Chemicals

Food production, including breweries, dairies, and vegetable oil factories

The law also gave the government control over the financial resources of these businesses, including bank deposits, accounts, and all assets Istanbul Tours Guide.

Secret Preparation and Swift Action Even before the bill was officially passed, preparations were underway in complete secrecy. On 22 December 1947, one day before the law was approved, communist officials began confiscating private businesses.

The process was simple and intimidating. Business owners were suddenly visited by representatives of the Communist Party. These officials demanded:

The keys to the business owner’s office and safe

A signed statement handing over the business to the “people’s government”

After signing, the owner was told to collect his coat and leave. That was the end of his role in the company he had likely spent his life building.

Immediately afterward, factory loudspeakers announced to workers that the Communist Party and state authorities had officially taken over the business. This public declaration was meant to show that the government was now fully in charge.

Loss of Property and Personal Freedom

Nationalization didn’t just affect the businesses. It also took a heavy toll on the lives of business owners. In addition to losing their companies, many had their personal property taken away, including:

Homes

Jewelry

Cars

Bank accounts

They were removed from all leadership roles and positions of influence in industry, banking, and trade. Many families were left with nothing, as both their professional careers and private lives were destroyed.

The Goal of Nationalization

The official reason for nationalization was to create a “people’s economy”—one where all means of production belonged to the state and served the interests of the working class. The Communist Party claimed that this was a necessary step to move from a capitalist to a socialist economy.

However, for many people, it meant the end of personal freedom, the destruction of private enterprise, and the beginning of a life under constant government control and surveillance.

The Role of Women's Organizations in the Suffrage Movement

The two main organizations pushing for women’s right to vote were the Union Ravnopravie (a more left-wing group) and the Bulgarian Women’s Union. These groups became the driving force behind the suffrage movement in Bulgaria.

Laws vs. Traditions: Why Women’s Suffrage Took Time

Even though Bulgarian women were not specifically banned from voting by the country’s constitution and electoral laws, patriarchal customs and traditions treated only men as citizens. While all men, including minority groups, were allowed to vote, women were still excluded because of traditional views about their role in society. Changing traditions was harder than changing laws Holidays Bulgaria.

Women’s Vote Granted in 1937

The demand for women’s suffrage remained unresolved for a long time. It wasn’t until 1937 that women were given the right to vote, but only for local elections and only for married women. Later, women who were married, divorced, or widowed were allowed to vote in parliamentary elections, but single adult women were still excluded. Because of the traditional pattern of early marriage in Bulgaria, most women were able to vote. However, the key issue was that women’s political rights were tied to their relationships with men, not their individual status.

Dependence on Men for Voting Rights

The new law made women voters, but only as long as they were linked to a man (either their husband, former husband, or deceased husband). This meant women were not seen as individual citizens but as dependents of men. Family life was seen as proof of whether a woman could be trusted with political rights. Additionally, the new law gave women the right to vote, but not to stand for election (so they had only active voting rights).

The Situation in Bulgaria Compared to Other Countries

Climbing the Mountain

The horses and riders were tired, struggling slowly up the mountain in the intense midday heat. Eventually, we reached a patch of woodland. The trees were old, bent, and twisted from years of strong winds. As we tried to ride through, the branches seemed to grab at us, trying to pull us off our horses. We crouched down, keeping close to the necks of our horses to avoid the branches. But some soldiers weren’t so lucky, and Turkish curses were heard when a branch caught them.

Walking Through the Heat

For a long time, we walked instead of riding. After that, we reached a bare, treeless highland. The ground was dry and hot, burning to the touch. We made a pact to not stop until we reached the top. The horses moved slowly but steadily, dripping with sweat from the effort. There was no wind to cool us down. Our water was warm and unpleasant, and when it ran out, our mouths felt dry and sticky. All I could think about was finding cold, fresh water. Luckily, one of the soldiers knew there was water ahead, so we kept moving with patience Customized Daily Istanbul Tours.

The Summit

An Unexpected Situation

There were moments when I was shocked, but I tried to act as dignified as possible. However, inside, I wanted to laugh uncontrollably. Around me was a circle of people with dark faces, all wearing red fezzes. The band played loudly, playing “God Save the King.” The Governor stood in a special area, surrounded by red ropes, on a blue carpet. In the center were two fancy red and gold chairs that looked like stage props.

A Royal Reception

We exchanged greetings in a formal way, bowing to each other repeatedly. When “God Save the King” finished, I was politely invited to sit in the crimson and gold chair next to the Governor. At that moment, I felt like I was the official representative of Great Britain. In fact, I almost felt like I was the Viceroy or a representative of the King himself. But at the same time, I felt like an imposter. I wanted to stand up, explain that I was just a curious traveler! Later, my dragoman told me that the audience thought I was a member of King Edward’s personal staff! That was quite embarrassing. Still, I kept a serious face. If I ever meet His Majesty, I’ll tell him that the most uncomfortable half hour of my life was when I unknowingly became the representative of Great Britain at a circus in Kirk Kilise Dragalevtsi Monastery.

The Circus Performance

There were cigarettes to smoke and coffee to drink. An older woman in blue tights jumped through hoops. A trapeze artist performed, and a clown entertained the crowd. The audience, mostly men wearing fezzes and a few dark-eyed Greek women, seemed to watch in a very calm way, almost as if they weren’t fully enjoying themselves.

The Governor’s Busy Work

Throughout the performance, the Governor was still working. He frowned and looked serious. A soldier quickly brought him a telegram form, and he wrote a message. Officers stood behind him, and with just a small signal, one of them would step forward to attend to him. The Governor’s secretary, a small, tired-looking man, came in, bowed, and handed him more telegrams. By the end of the evening, I must have seen at least a dozen telegrams delivered.

The People’s Respect

Sofia A City with a Western Charm

Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, has a unique character that feels like a western American city. Just 25 years ago, it was a poor and rundown Turkish town, full of dirt and disorder. However, things have changed a lot since then. The old, dilapidated houses and narrow, dirty streets have disappeared, almost as if a fire had swept through them. Now, Sofia boasts wide streets, large squares, and beautiful public buildings. The boulevards are lined with trees, and the cafes have outdoor seating where people enjoy their time, spilling onto the sidewalks.

A Modern Transformation

Sofia has been transformed into a city that resembles a smaller version of Brussels. It has grown rapidly, and many people believe that, one day, it may even rival other European cities like Budapest. Twenty-five years ago, Sofia had only about 11,000 residents. Today, its population has grown to over 70,000, a clear sign of the city’s growth and modernization Adventure Bulgaria Tour.

However, Sofia is still in the process of change. The old town, which was left behind by the Turks, is almost gone, but the new town is not fully complete yet. Although the city has improved, it still faces some challenges. The streets are not paved, which makes them bumpy and dusty during the summer. In winter, the streets get dirty and muddy. The houses are built with low-quality bricks, but they are covered with stucco and paint, giving them the appearance of stone buildings. The houses might not be very solid, but they look neat and pleasant, especially with the acacia trees that grow quickly, making the city feel more peaceful and inviting.

Sofia’s Growing Development

In many ways, Sofia is still a work in progress. The city is developing in a way that is similar to the American style of building. Large, impressive houses stand alone, with empty land in front of them. Before reaching these houses, you often pass patches of land filled with old items, like broken pots and discarded furniture. Then, you might see a house under construction, with building materials scattered on the street. After that, you find a completed house, looking attractive and ready for living. This mix of construction, empty spaces, and finished buildings shows how Sofia is growing and evolving.

The Bulgarian Political Emigration and Armed Resistance

The Bulgarian political emigration played a significant role in the armed resistance against the communist regime in Bulgaria. Official records from the State Security show that in 1955, 52 armed groups from abroad entered Bulgaria to join the Goriyani movement. These groups were organized and sent to Bulgaria by the Bulgarian National Committee, which later became known as the Bulgarian Liberation Movement.

Supporting the Resistance Movement

In the early years after the communist regime took power, many Bulgarians illegally crossed the border to join organizations formed by political emigrants. These groups aimed to support the resistance against the oppressive regime. Here are some of the key emigrant organizations that operated in exile:

Bulgarian National Committee “Free and Independent Bulgaria” Bulgarian Liberation Movement “Free Bulgarians” Union Bulgarian Human Rights League Free Bulgarian Centre Bulgarian Hearth Provisional Bulgarian Mission Union of the Bulgarian Anarchists Abroad Bulgarian Organization “Tsar Simeon” Bulgarian National Front “Freedom” Bulgarian National Front “Struggle” The Bulgarian Social Democratic Party in exile Union of the Bulgarian Ex-Military in exile Students’ Organization “Stefan Stambolov” The Bulgarian Orthodox Church in exile And others.

These organizations aimed to unite Bulgarians living abroad and provide support for those resisting the communist government in Bulgaria Bulgaria Private Tours Kazanlak.

Formation of the Bulgarian NATO Company

In 1951, the first Bulgarian company within NATO was established near Zeilsheim, a small town near Frankfurt, Germany. This company was made up entirely of Bulgarian political emigrants. Over its 14 years of existence, around 2,500 Bulgarians joined this unit. The soldiers and officers in this company were individuals who had escaped from Bulgaria and were committed to defending the free world against the threat of communism, particularly from the Warsaw Pact countries. They hoped to contribute to the eventual liberation of Bulgaria from communist rule.

Dissolution of the Bulgarian Company

During the period known as détente, representatives from the Eastern bloc brought up the issue of emigrant companies in NATO during East-West talks. They insisted that these companies be dissolved. As a result, the Bulgarian National Company within NATO was officially dissolved on June 3, 1964.

The dissolution marked a significant moment for Bulgarian political emigration, as it reflected the pressures faced by these groups in the changing political landscape of the time. Despite this, the legacy of their efforts in resisting communism and their hope for a free Bulgaria continued to inspire future generations.

The Bulgarian Political Emigration and Armed Resistance

The Bulgarian political emigration played a significant role in the armed resistance against the communist regime in Bulgaria. Official records from the State Security show that in 1955, 52 armed groups from abroad entered Bulgaria to join the Goriyani movement. These groups were organized and sent to Bulgaria by the Bulgarian National Committee, which later became known as the Bulgarian Liberation Movement.

Supporting the Resistance Movement

In the early years after the communist regime took power, many Bulgarians illegally crossed the border to join organizations formed by political emigrants. These groups aimed to support the resistance against the oppressive regime. Here are some of the key emigrant organizations that operated in exile:

Bulgarian National Committee “Free and Independent Bulgaria” Bulgarian Liberation Movement “Free Bulgarians” Union Bulgarian Human Rights League Free Bulgarian Centre Bulgarian Hearth Provisional Bulgarian Mission Union of the Bulgarian Anarchists Abroad Bulgarian Organization “Tsar Simeon” Bulgarian National Front “Freedom” Bulgarian National Front “Struggle” The Bulgarian Social Democratic Party in exile Union of the Bulgarian Ex-Military in exile Students’ Organization “Stefan Stambolov” The Bulgarian Orthodox Church in exile And others.

These organizations aimed to unite Bulgarians living abroad and provide support for those resisting the communist government in Bulgaria Bulgaria Private Tours Kazanlak.

Formation of the Bulgarian NATO Company

In 1951, the first Bulgarian company within NATO was established near Zeilsheim, a small town near Frankfurt, Germany. This company was made up entirely of Bulgarian political emigrants. Over its 14 years of existence, around 2,500 Bulgarians joined this unit. The soldiers and officers in this company were individuals who had escaped from Bulgaria and were committed to defending the free world against the threat of communism, particularly from the Warsaw Pact countries. They hoped to contribute to the eventual liberation of Bulgaria from communist rule.

Dissolution of the Bulgarian Company

During the period known as détente, representatives from the Eastern bloc brought up the issue of emigrant companies in NATO during East-West talks. They insisted that these companies be dissolved. As a result, the Bulgarian National Company within NATO was officially dissolved on June 3, 1964.

The dissolution marked a significant moment for Bulgarian political emigration, as it reflected the pressures faced by these groups in the changing political landscape of the time. Despite this, the legacy of their efforts in resisting communism and their hope for a free Bulgaria continued to inspire future generations.

Acknowledging European Solidarity and Support

We deeply appreciate the support provided by the Konrad Adenauer Foundation and the Federal Foundation for Research on the Nature of the SED Dictatorship for this important project. Additionally, the active participation of the Berlin Library in Commemoration of the Victims of Communism stands as a significant symbol of European solidarity. Together, these contributions highlight our shared commitment to remembering the past and learning from it.

The Fall of the Berlin Wall: A Symbol of Hope

The fall of the Berlin Wall was more than just the collapse of a physical barrier; it symbolized the downfall of communist regimes across Europe. This monumental event inspired millions of people in Eastern and Central Europe, fueling their desire for a fresh start and a brighter future. The Federal Republic of Germany serves as an exemplary model from which we can learn valuable lessons. It has shown us how to work steadily and unwaveringly towards the unity and stability of a democratic society. By revealing the truth about the past and exposing the true nature of totalitarian regimes, Germany demonstrates that a strong and united future can be built on the foundation of honesty and transparency Guided Tour Istanbul.

Spreading the Message of the Exhibition

I sincerely hope that the powerful message of this exhibition reaches a wide audience across many towns and regions, touching both young and old. I am eager to contribute to this cause and help promote the establishment of a museum in the near future, dedicated to the memory of the victims of the communist regime in our country. Such a museum will serve as a crucial educational resource, helping the youth of Bulgaria, both present and future, to understand the realities of the totalitarian state, its institutions, and its State Security apparatus. It is vital that they learn how these entities functioned and the impact of their decisions on the lives of ordinary people.

Supporting the Cause and Addressing the Youth

I stand with you today to offer my full support for this worthy cause. It is our duty and responsibility to reach out to the young people of Bulgaria, ensuring that they can face the future without any distortion or concealment of the truth about our past. A nation can only have a meaningful future if it respects and understands its history. We must encourage the youth of Bulgaria to avoid being swayed by what is shallow, superficial, or merely convenient. Instead, they should strive to comprehend and address the challenges of today, using the lessons of the past to build a better future.

Building a Future on Truth and Knowledge