A historic moment: Sofia marks its freedom from five centuries of oppression

18.07.2025 | Historical dates

The capital solemnly celebrates its 142nd anniversary of liberation, recalling the key historical processes that led to the end of Ottoman rule and the beginning of modern Bulgarian statehood.

Снимка от Elanoraga, Wikimedia Commons, под CC BY 4.0

The memorable date of July 18, 2025 marks another anniversary of the turning point in national history – the final liberation of Sofia from foreign control. The historical events of 1883 were the result of a large-scale military conflict between the Russian and Ottoman Empires, which concluded with the Treaty of San Stefano.

This pivotal period means more than geographical liberation – it symbolizes the revival of the Bulgarian national spirit and the beginning of state-building. The transformation of Sofia from a provincial Ottoman city to a modern European capital became a reality during these fateful years.

Today's celebrations, organized by the National Historical Museum and the Sofia Municipality, include large-scale reenactments, academic exhibitions, and public discussions. They aim to preserve the memory of this exceptional moment that forever changes the course of Bulgarian history.