Title: 147 Years Ago: The Liberation of Sofia in 1878
The city of Sofia marks a significant anniversary today, January 4th, as it commemorates 147 years since its liberation from Ottoman rule in 1878. The capital pays tribute to this historic event with a series of ceremonies and tributes.
Monuments Honored
The city’s municipal council will place wreaths at three prominent monuments: the "Bulgarian Opitchenets" monument, the "Tsar Liberator" statue, and the monument dedicated to General Gourko. This act of remembrance underscores the gratitude Bulgarians feel towards the Russian forces who played a crucial role in their liberation.
Ceremonies and Events
- A solemn ceremony will commence at 10:00 AM at the "Bulgarian Opitchenets" monument, where the city council will lay flowers in honor of the occasion.
- From 12:00 PM onwards, an historical reenactment will take place in the North Park, organized by the "Naдежда" district, National Union "Eдинение" association, and United Balkans association.
- His Holiness Patriarch Neofit will lead a thanksgiving service at the St. Nedelya Cathedral to honor the fallen soldiers.
Historical Significance
On January 4, 1878, units from General Gourko’s Western Detachment of the Russian Army entered Sofia, met by cheering citizens at the then Koru-Cheshme Square (present-day St. Nedelya Square). Teacher Mikhail Bubotynov delivered a welcoming speech on behalf of the Sofia residents. A grateful Mass was held at the St. Nedelya Cathedral in the presence of General-Governor Yosif Gourko and General Oton Ruauh.
The Regional Historical Museum – Sofia has prepared materials to remember these historical events on its website.
Sources: Nova.bg, Sophia Gospodinova, BTA