145 Years of the Gendarmerie: A Symbol of Statehood and Respect for Tradition

145 years of history and dignity

Minister of Interior Ivan Demerdzhiev congratulated the employees of the General Directorate "Gendarmerie, Special Operations and Counter-Terrorism" on the occasion of its 145th anniversary. "Your structure has always been a symbol of the state's strength – a strength that protects citizens and guarantees the rule of law," the minister emphasized.

"The black uniform symbolizes dignity and honor. Do not allow yourselves to cross the line, and our line is the law," Demerdzhiev added.

The Director of the GDGSOCT, Chief Commissioner Petar Antiev, added that despite the numerous transformations over the years, the gendarmerie remains faithful to its mission of serving society and the state, evolving into a modern and high-tech structure.

Spirituality and community

Part of the festive July 26th was the consecration of a new chapel in the courtyard of the directorate, dedicated to the patron saint of the Ministry of Interior – St. Archangel Michael. The temple was built entirely through donations from employees and was consecrated personally by the Bulgarian Patriarch Daniil.

Open Door Day

• Demonstrations of police equipment and tactical skills.
• Interactive corners for children and adolescents.
• Air gun shooting tournament for visitors.

The Gendarmerie was established by a decree of Prince Alexander I Battenberg in 1881 and today continues to be a key pillar in Bulgaria's national security system.