Sofia Marks 147th Anniversary of Liberation from Ottoman Rule
This January 4th marks a meaningful date in Bulgarian history: the 147th anniversary of Sofia’s liberation from Ottoman rule.The city is commemorating this pivotal moment with a series of events honoring the bravery adn sacrifice of those who fought for freedom.
The Sofia Municipality is leading the commemorations, beginning with wreath-laying ceremonies at several key monuments. At 10:00 a.m., officials will lay flowers at the “Bulgarian Soldier” monument, a poignant tribute to the fallen.
Further events are planned throughout the day. A ancient reenactment, organized by the “Nadezhda” region, Association “National Union ‘Edinenie’,” and Association “United Balkans,” will take place at noon in Severen Park (accessible from Narodni Buditeli Street, near the Svoboda residential complex). This promises to be a captivating experience, bringing to life the events of that momentous day.
Adding a spiritual dimension to the commemorations, His Holiness Metropolitan of Sofia and Bulgarian Patriarch Daniil will lead a prayer of thanksgiving at the “Holy Sunday” metropolitan church. This service will honor the memory of the soldiers who perished in the fight for liberation.
The Regional History Museum-Sofia is also participating, offering online resources detailing the historical events surrounding the liberation. Their website provides a valuable resource for those seeking a deeper understanding of this important chapter in Bulgarian history.
A Look Back: January 4,1878
On January 4,1878,the first Russian troops,part of the Western Detachment of the Russian Army under the command of General Gurko,entered Sofia.They were greeted by the citizens of Sofia at Koru-Ceshme square (now St. Nedelya Square). “The teacher Mihail Bubotinov welcomed him on behalf of the people of Sofia with a special speech,” according to historical accounts. A thanksgiving prayer service was held at the St. Nedelya Cathedral in honor of the Russian soldiers, attended by Lieutenant-General Yosif Gurko and Major-General Otto Rauch.
The liberation of Sofia marked a turning point, not onyl for Bulgaria but also for the broader geopolitical landscape of the time. The events of 1878 resonate even today, serving as a reminder of the importance of freedom and the sacrifices made to achieve it. This anniversary provides an opportunity for reflection and a renewed appreciation for the historical importance of this event.
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