Bulgarian Independence: 117 Years of Freedom

On September 22, 1908, Bulgarian history underwent a fundamental change. In a solemn setting in Veliko Tarnovo, Prince Ferdinand declared the independence of Bulgaria through a manifesto, an act that ended centuries of vassalage to the Ottoman Empire.

This was not merely a political act, but a symbol of the long-awaited liberation from foreign rule. The Principality of Bulgaria, with the now-crowned Tsar Ferdinand at its head, finally confidently embarked on its path towards full sovereignty. The recognition of Bulgarian independence by the Sublime Porte, and subsequently by the Great Powers, solidified this pivotal moment in national history.

The significance of this historical act has long been insufficiently appreciated. Today, 117 years later, it is appropriate to emphasize the scale of the event. Bulgaria, one of the oldest countries in Europe, returned to the map after five centuries of slavery, freeing itself from the shackles of Ottoman rule.

The declaration of independence is not just a point in the chronology, but a key moment marking the beginning of a new stage in the development of the Bulgarian state. It marked the end of a period of subordination and opened the doors to the building of an independent and sovereign Bulgaria.

In honor of this significant anniversary, on September 22, 2025 (Monday), the Pomorie Municipality has organized a solemn celebration in front of the memorial plaques of the participants in the struggle for national liberation.

• The celebration will begin at 10:30 am with the raising of the national flag, a symbol of Bulgarian sovereignty, won after so many years of struggle.
• This will be followed by a thanksgiving prayer service, paying tribute to the victims who laid the foundations of Bulgaria"s freedom.
• The program will also include children from the "Veselushko" and "Detelina" kindergartens, as well as students from "Hristo Botev" Primary School and "Ivan Vazov" Secondary School, inspiring the younger generation with the memory of this important moment in Bulgarian history.

The atmosphere will undoubtedly be filled with a sense of national pride and reverence for the heroes who fought for Bulgaria"s independence.

The Pomorie Municipality extends an invitation to all residents and guests of the city, as well as to public organizations and institutions, to participate in the celebration and pay tribute to this memorable day for Bulgaria.