Bulgaria celebrates independence with festivities across the country

published on 9/22/24 2:13 PM

Photo: BTA

The Independence Day celebrations in Veliko Tarnovo began in the Church of the Forty Martyrs, where on 22 September 1908 Prince Ferdinand I read the manifesto declaring the Principality of Bulgaria an independent kingdom. "We know that with joined hands, we can achieve much more than with elbowing and fist-waving. We know that a common goal is achieved through unity. Independence is not a gift, it is a heritage. Independence must be defended every day. These were the words of Raya Nazaryan, President of the National Assembly, who attended the celebrations in Bulgaria's ancient capital and reflected on the lessons of the historic event of 1908.

In Sofia, a ceremony was held in front of the "Independence of Bulgaria" monument on Knyaz Alexander I Square. "Independence Day has had a strange fate - celebrated until 1944, banned and then restored in 1998," said Professor Veselin Yanchev of Sofia's St Kliment Ohridski University in his speech. The Sofia Brass Band, the Sveta Sofia Choir and the Gusla Male Choir performed at the celebrations in Sofia.

Bulgaria's independence was celebrated in Varna with a military ritual, a prayer and a horo dance. The celebration ended with performances by the "Varna" folklore ensemble. At the end, the citizens and guests of the celebrations also joined in a city-wide festive horo.

The 116th anniversary of Bulgarian Independence was also marked in Yambol. For the third time, a 10-kilometre bicycle ride was organised to the ancient city of Kabile, reports BNR correspondent Daniela Kostova.

Anniversary celebrations continue across the country.

Photos: BTA, BGNES, Yambol Municipality

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