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Examination for District Inspectors

The examination for district school inspectors consists of two parts: oral and written.

The oral test includes questions about teaching methods, education principles, and educational administration.

The written test focuses on pedagogical science, teaching methods, the subjects taught in primary schools, school inspections, the application of the Law of Public Instruction, school regulations, and relevant educational literature.

These tests ensure that inspectors are fully prepared to supervise schools and support teachers effectively.

Classes and Salaries of District Inspectors

District inspectors are divided into three classes based on seniority:

First class: 2,620 francs per year

Second class: 2,400 francs per year

Third class: 2,136 francs per year

All inspectors also receive 480 francs annually for travel expenses.

Duties and Supervision

Departmental inspectors supervise the district inspectors and all elementary schools in the department. They also oversee the progymnasia (secondary preparatory schools) Customized Tours Istanbul.

District inspectors are responsible for primary schools in their district, except for the main school in the town or village where the district inspectorate is located. These main schools are supervised directly by departmental inspectors.

The departmental inspectors communicate directly with the Ministry of Public Instruction and other administrative bodies, while district inspectors focus on school-level inspections and local administration.

At least three times a year, all inspectors in a department meet under the departmental inspector to discuss educational and disciplinary issues.

Departmental Educational Councils

Each administrative department has a departmental educational council to manage and coordinate education. The council includes:

The prefect, as president

Directors of gymnasia or secondary schools in the chief town

The president or vice-president of the district court

School inspectors of the department

Headmasters of primary schools in the chief town

Two secondary school teachers, elected by teachers in the chief town

The president and secretary of the departmental council

The mayor of the chief town

The council meets monthly in regular sessions and can meet at other times if necessary. It ensures coordination, supervision, and quality control across all schools in the department.

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Powers of the Ordinary National Assembly

The ordinary National Assembly of Bulgaria has clearly defined powers according to the Constitution. These powers are divided into administrative and legislative functions.

Administrative Powers

The National Assembly manages its own internal affairs. It elects its officers, including a president, two vice-presidents, secretaries, and questors. These officers are responsible for overseeing the proper functioning of the Assembly.

The Assembly also sets its internal regulations and the order of its work. Debates and votes in the Assembly are usually public, ensuring transparency and accountability. However, if a sufficient number of deputies request it, the Assembly may sit behind closed doors to discuss sensitive matters privately.

Legislative Powers

The National Assembly shares legislative authority with the Prince. This means that both the Assembly and the Crown can initiate new laws.

Deputies’ Rights: Every deputy has the right to make propositions and introduce bills, provided they are supported by one-fourth of the members present Istanbul Day Tours.

Amendments: The Assembly may amend bills and propositions introduced by the Government.

Interpellations: Deputies can question individual ministers or the entire Government about their actions or policies. This process, called interpellation, allows the Assembly to hold the executive accountable.

Oversight and Inquiries

The Assembly has the power to appoint commissions of inquiry to investigate the conduct of the Government. It can also submit special addresses to the Prince, usually in response to the Throne Speech, which outlines the state of the country and the Government’s plans.

Through these addresses, deputies can express their opinions and concerns regarding proposed bills, government measures, or the general conduct of the administration. This ensures that the National Assembly plays an active role in guiding public policy and safeguarding the interests of the Bulgarian people.

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The Emancipation of the Bulgarian Church

The emancipation of the Bulgarian Church came before the political liberation of the country. While the political freedom of Bulgaria was influenced by foreign powers, the liberation of the national Church from the Greek patriarchate was entirely the work of dedicated Bulgarians. Their persistent efforts succeeded in 1870, when the Bulgarian Exarchate was officially established in Constantinople. This was a major step in preserving the Bulgarian language, culture, and national identity.

The Rise of a New Generation

While older and more conservative Bulgarians sought safety in religious independence, a new generation demanded more. Young Bulgarians, inspired by the hope of full freedom, began emigrating to neighboring countries, especially Romania. There, they formed organizations and prepared rebellions against Ottoman rule. These efforts were part of a wider movement in the Balkans, where Greeks, Romanians, and Serbians had already regained independence.

Rebellion and European Intervention

By 1875–1876, events in the Balkans attracted the attention of European powers. An uprising in Herzegovina coincided with the assassination of French and German consuls at Salonica by Muslim fanatics. At the same time, a revolt in the Bulgarian Sandjak of Philippopolis was brutally suppressed by Ottoman forces, resulting in widespread massacres. The horrors were reported across Europe, with British politician Gladstone voicing the outrage of the continent. Serbia, seeing an opportunity to secure its independence, sent its army across the Ottoman frontier City Tours Istanbul.

The Constantinople Conference

These disturbances forced the Great Powers to convene a conference in Constantinople from December 11–23, 1876. This conference was a historic moment for Bulgaria. For the first time, the name “Bulgaria” appeared in official international diplomacy. The conference also outlined the preliminary organization of the future Principality, laying the foundation for Bulgaria’s eventual political independence.

The period between the emancipation of the Church and the political liberation shows how Bulgarians combined spiritual leadership, national consciousness, and revolutionary energy to prepare for freedom. The Church acted as a beacon of national identity, while young patriots abroad organized and inspired the movement that would lead to the creation of modern Bulgaria.

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Inscriptions Honoring Theophilus and Michael

Inscriptions near Top Kapoussi

According to the research of Aristarki Bey and Canon Curtis, two additional inscriptions dedicated to Emperor Theophilus and his son, Michael III, were once found on towers near Top Kapoussi (the Gate of St. Barbara). These inscriptions, along with many others, show the large scale of restoration work carried out under Theophilus.

The last three inscriptions in this group are especially important, as they provide an approximate date for part of the construction. Since Michael III served as co-emperor with his father from 839 to 842, we know that some of the repairs to the city walls must have been completed during those years.

The Golden Horn Fortifications

Along the fortifications of the Golden Horn, around twenty inscriptions honoring Theophilus have been recorded. They were very similar to those found on the Marmara Sea walls, bearing the emperor’s name and titles. Unfortunately, most of these inscriptions have since disappeared due to repeated demolitions of the walls, which were carried out during later city improvements.

The most memorable of these were the inscriptions that contained two names together: Theophilus and Michael. This pairing is of great historical interest because it shows the continuity of imperial authority Private Bulgaria Tours Yachting.

The Names of Michael and Theophilus

The inscriptions reveal two patterns:

In two cases, Michael’s name appeared before Theophilus’s name.

In five cases, Theophilus’s name came first, followed by Michael’s.

The only reasonable explanation for this variation is that the two names referred to different emperors named Michael. When Michael’s name came first, it referred to Michael II, the father of Theophilus. When Theophilus’s name came first, the Michael mentioned was Michael III, his son.

From this evidence, historians conclude that the restoration of Constantinople’s seaward walls began during the reign of Michael II, around 825, soon after he appointed his son Theophilus as co-emperor. The work then continued under Theophilus and was later completed under Michael III.

The Inscriptions near Indjili Kiosk

To the north of the ruins of Indjili Kiosk, by the Sea of Marmara, three marble slabs with inscriptions were once built into the city wall. Though badly damaged and partly illegible, the text appeared to commemorate the restoration of a section of the wall during the reign of Michael III.

What makes this inscription particularly interesting is its mention of Bardas, the emperor’s maternal uncle. Bardas was a powerful figure in Byzantine politics and served as commander of the elite imperial guard known as the Scholai. His name in the inscription confirms his role in overseeing the restoration of the walls and protecting the imperial capital.

Legacy of the Inscriptions

The surviving inscriptions of Theophilus and Michael II–III are more than decorative carvings. They are historical evidence of the empire’s efforts to strengthen its defenses during the ninth century. They also demonstrate how emperors used such inscriptions to connect their names with acts of piety, strength, and continuity.

Though many have been lost through centuries of rebuilding and destruction, the few that remain still tell the story of a dynasty that saw itself as both defenders of the faith and protectors of Constantinople.

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The Church of St. Luke in Jajce

In Jajce, there is one of the most famous religious sites, the Church of St. Luke. This church is highly respected by Catholics, Greek Orthodox Christians, and even Muslims. The reason for this is that it is believed to be the early burial place of the apostle St. Luke. According to local legend, when the church was in danger of being destroyed by the Turks during the Middle Ages, an army of angels miraculously moved the church from one side of the river to the other to save it.

The people of Jajce and the surrounding areas believe the story to be true. They will show you the spot where the church used to stand, on the east bank of the river, and they would consider you a skeptic if you doubted that the church was lifted by invisible hands and moved across the river to a new foundation, hundreds of yards away. Thousands of pilgrims, especially those who are crippled or sick, visit this shrine, and many believe that miracles have taken place there.

The Truth Behind St. Luke’s Burial

According to local belief, St. Luke lived and died in Jajce and was buried in this church. However, the priest in charge of the church says this is not true. He has no evidence that St. Luke ever lived in Jajce, and he believes that St. Luke died in Syria. According to historical records, the remains of St. Luke were brought to Rogus, a town on the Adriatic coast, in the 13th century from Constantinople. In 1436, King George Brankovic of Serbia bought the remains from the Turkish governor of that region Sightseeing Sofia.

The Story of the Stolen Relics

The story behind the remains of St. Luke is quite interesting. The Turkish governor, fearing a riot if the relics were taken from Constantinople, spread a rumor that the Sultan had ordered a census for taxation and military service. He told the Christian population that they needed to leave the town for a few days, so they wouldn’t be counted by the census takers.

During their absence, the holy relics were secretly taken from the church. The remains were placed aboard a ship and transported away. For several months, no one noticed the relics were missing. It wasn’t until rumors began to spread from Serbia that the relics were safe in that country that the theft was discovered.

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Prince Ferdinand’s Time Away from the Capital

Prince Ferdinand of Bulgaria does not spend much time in the capital, Sofia. There is not much there to interest him. The business of the state is well-managed by Mr. Bakhmeteff, the Russian representative, and the ministers. There are also few social or intellectual activities to engage his attention. The prince prefers to spend his time at Varna, where he has a country palace on the shores of the Black Sea.

His Hobby as a Naturalist

Prince Ferdinand is an accomplished naturalist. He enjoys hunting and classifying insects, plants, and other parts of nature. He has cataloged almost all the flora (plants) and fauna (animals) of Bulgaria. In Sofia, he has even established a zoological garden, which he funded himself.

His Physical Appearance and Personality

Although Prince Ferdinand is a grandson of Louis Philippe, he is said to resemble Louis Napoleon, the last emperor of France, especially in his disposition (character) and appearance. He has a distinctive nose, which has become a source of humor for caricaturists. His nose is so unique that it is easily recognizable, and the caricaturists often use it as a trademark to make clever drawings about him Private Tour Guide Ephesus.

Prince Ferdinand is a clever and accomplished gentleman, and a skilled politician. He is known for having a flexible conscience and can handle difficult situations better than most princes in Europe. He inherited the manners of his French ancestors, and like them, he is often seen as insincere. He is skilled at getting out of tricky situations in a way that makes him look good.

Differences from His Predecessor, Alexander of Battenberg

Prince Ferdinand is very different from his predecessor, Alexander of Battenberg. While Alexander was a Lutheran and supported Protestant missionary work, Ferdinand does not mind the missionary activity because the constitution of Bulgaria guarantees freedom of worship, and the police protect Protestants if there are any disturbances.

Marriage and Family Life

Prince Ferdinand had a short but happy marriage with Marie Louise. They were married for about six years before she passed away. During their marriage, they had four children:

Boris (born January 30, 1894), Cyril (born November 17, 1895), Eudoxie (born January 17, 1898), Madeja (born January 30, 1899)

Sadly, Queen Marie Louise died the day after giving birth to their youngest child, Madeja. The children are all intelligent and are being raised with careful attention, following European methods of education.

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The Exokionion and the Seventh Hill

The district on the Seventh Hill, located to the west of Avret Bazaar (the Forum of Arcadius) and next to the Cistern of Mokius, still carries the name Exokionion today, though in a Turkish form. The district is known as Alti Mermer, meaning “The Six Columns”. This is a Turkish adaptation of the Byzantine name Hexakionion, which was a common name for the Exokionion. Therefore, it’s clear that the Exokionion was situated on the Seventh Hill. The Wall of Constantine passed through this hill, just east of the Alti Mermer area.

The Ancient Gate of the Forerunner

The next important landmark in identifying the location of Constantine’s wall is the Ancient Gate of the Forerunner (also called the Ancient Gate). This gate provided a key reference for the position of the wall. It was part of the original fortifications of the city and outlasted many other structures, similar to how Temple Bar survived after the wall of London was gone. The gate became known as the Ancient Gate because of its great age Sofia Guided Tours.

The name Ancient Gate of the Forerunner comes from the fact that a church dedicated to John the Baptist (the Forerunner) was built next to the gate. The church was called the Church of the Forerunner at the Ancient Gate.

Description of the Ancient Gate

The Ancient Gate was described by Manuel Chrysolaras as one of the most impressive monuments in the city. It was located to the west of the Forum of Arcadius. The gate was so wide and tall that a tower or even a full-rigged ship could pass through its entrance. This highlights the grandeur of the gate and its importance in the city’s history.

In summary, the Exokionion was located on the Seventh Hill, and the Wall of Constantine passed through this area. The Ancient Gate of the Forerunner provided an important landmark that helped determine the position of the wall. This gate, along with the church dedicated to John the Baptist, played a significant role in the history of Constantinople.

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Great Hotels to Stay in Sofia

Sofia has a wide variety of hotels that offer comfort, convenience, and style for all types of travelers. From luxury to boutique hotels, here are some great options worth considering.

Barcelo Festa Sofia

Location: G-7, Blvd. Bulgaria 83 Contact: Tel: [phone]

Located a few kilometers from the city center on busy Bulgaria Boulevard, the Barcelo Festa Sofia is an impressive modern hotel. While the reception area is a bit flashy, the rooms are calm and stylish Bulgaria Trips.

Rooms: Designed in coffee and cream tones, with minimalist, modern bathrooms and full-size bathtubs.

Luxury Category: These rooms are larger, with lounge-style furniture and flat-screen TVs.

Views: South-facing rooms overlook Mount Vitosha, while north-facing ones offer a city view.

Facilities: Wi-Fi, restaurant, spa, gym, conference room, parking

Best Western Hotel City

Location: B-4, ul. Stara Planina 6 Contact: Tel: [phone]

This modern four-star hotel is near Sofia’s historic city center, making it ideal for tourists. Rooms are spacious, clean, and well-maintained. The helpful staff add to the positive experience.

Facilities: Wi-Fi, restaurant, fitness center, air conditioning, business services

Casa Boyana Boutique Hotel

Location: G-6, ul. Ivanitsa Danchev 23, Boyana Contact: Tel: [phone]

A small and stylish boutique hotel in the peaceful Boyana neighborhood near the National History Museum. The hotel features Italian furniture, bold interior colors, and luxury bathrooms.

Views: Excellent city views from the restaurant windows.

Service: The staff are especially welcoming and attentive.

Facilities: Restaurant, Wi-Fi, parking, quiet location, personal service

Central Park Hotel

Location: C-2, Blvd. Vitosha 106 Contact: Tel: [phone]

The Central Park Hotel enjoys a prime city-center location right in front of the National Palace of Culture. It’s close to Sofia’s best shopping, dining, and nightlife spots.

Rooms: Comfortable and well-equipped, many offering great views of the nearby park or Mount Vitosha.

Dining: The hotel restaurant serves modern European dishes with a good wine selection.

Business Services: Offers full office support and secretarial services for business travelers.

Facilities: Wi-Fi, restaurant, business center, air conditioning, conference services

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The Bulgarian Border and Cooperation with the GDR

Information Sharing and Surveillance

During the communist era, the Bulgarian government closely monitored not only the movement of people across the border but also their daily lives. Citizens were under constant surveillance, and authorities gathered extensive information about their activities, interests, and even their personal purchases. This surveillance was part of the larger effort to maintain control over the population and prevent any acts of resistance or defection.

Tragic Incident Schoolchildren Shot at the Border

On 29 April 1948, a tragic incident occurred when seven schoolchildren were shot dead while attempting to cross the Bulgarian border into Greece. This event was reported in a newspaper as part of a parliamentary debate on crimes committed in the frontier zones. The harsh measures used to control the borders and prevent escapes were part of the regime’s strategy to eliminate any form of resistance or escape attempts Personal Istanbul Tours.

The authorities did not hesitate to use force, even against innocent civilians, to protect the borders and stop people from fleeing the oppressive regime. The tragic deaths of these schoolchildren highlight the severe measures taken by the communist government to maintain its hold on power, and the lack of compassion or regard for human life in the pursuit of political control.

Surveillance of the Border Zone

The Bulgarian border zone was heavily guarded and controlled. A signboard displayed in the DDR (German Democratic Republic) part of Berlin prohibited passage in certain areas, marking the frontier as a place of strict control and surveillance. These border regions were clearly marked with signs that warned people not to enter, reinforcing the idea that crossing these borders was a dangerous and forbidden act.

The Rabotnitchesko Delo daily newspaper, published in August 1963, even printed a map showing Berlin’s division, with West Berlin divided into three occupation zones: French, British, and American. This map was a part of the broader context of the Cold War, showing how countries were divided and the security measures put in place by both the East and West.

Bulgaria-GDR Cooperation Agreement

In 1988, the Bulgarian Ministry of the Interior and the Ministry of State Security of the German Democratic Republic (GDR) signed a new Agreement on Cooperation and Collaboration. This agreement was a continuation of the Cooperation Agreement that had been signed in 1974 between the two ministries. The new agreement, signed by Bulgarian Interior Minister Stoyanov and his GDR counterpart, Erich Fritz Emil Mielke, was meant to last until 1993.

This cooperation was a reflection of the tight security control shared by Eastern Bloc countries. It included mutual assistance in surveillance, intelligence gathering, and the repression of any anti-government activities. The close relationship between Bulgaria and East Germany exemplified the way in which communist regimes worked together to control their citizens and suppress any efforts to escape or resist the system.

The situation at the Bulgarian border during the communist era was one of strict control and repression. Escape attempts were met with extreme force, and the lives of citizens were closely monitored and restricted. The tragic event of the schoolchildren being shot at the border is just one example of the regime’s brutal tactics. The close cooperation between Bulgaria and the GDR further shows how the Eastern Bloc countries worked together to maintain their authoritarian systems, keeping their citizens under constant surveillance and control.

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Prostitution in Ancient Rome

In Ancient Rome, prostitutes were called meretrix, meaning “earning with the body”. They were divided into different categories based on their status.

The lowest class of prostitutes worked in small, dirty, narrow lodges on the streets. These lodges, called lupanar (meaning “female wolf caves”), were disgusting and smelled bad. The name came from the idea of a wolf (Iupa) hunting and bringing its prey to the lupanar.

Although prostitutes were often treated badly and isolated from society, they were also seen as protectors of families. They helped prevent attacks on married women or young girls by men. However, they were still looked down upon, isolated, and sometimes locked up. They had to appear like respectable wives and were only allowed to serve honorable men. Prostitutes were not allowed to build families or have children. To make them easily recognizable, they had to wear special clothes Coastal Bulgaria Holidays.

Prostitution was important for Roman men because a man’s sexual life was closely connected to ensuring his family’s legacy and passing down his wealth. While women tried various methods to avoid pregnancy, it was essential for a man to have at least two children, one of whom had to be a boy, to continue his family’s fortune. After having children, men often preferred to meet their sexual needs with prostitutes or other men. Therefore, prostitution was a common and widely accepted practice in Ancient Rome.

The Ottoman Sultan’s Love for Arts

The Ottoman Sultan had a deep interest in the beautiful arts like illumination, Islamic calligraphy, music, painting, and wood carving. This passion was so strong that it greatly influenced both the practice and application of these arts.

As a prince, Yavuz Sultan Selim learned the art of jewelry in Trabzon and even carved coins in the name of his father, Sultan Beyazid II. Kanuni Sultan Suleyman also studied jewelry and, according to historian Evliya Çelebi, he was the first to organize a jewelry fair in the Kağıthane district.

Some of the finest examples of Ottoman jewelry, such as the emerald dagger, Kaşıkçı diamond, Kanuni Sultan Suleyman’s ivory mirror, golden cradle, and ceremonial throne, are displayed at the Topkapi Palace.

Today, Turkish jewelry holds an important place in the world, ranking second in exports and leading in production.

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Curiosity of the Innkeeper

The situation became so repetitive that eventually, I had to ask two soldiers to guard the stairs. Despite this, my host’s curiosity could not be stopped. When I decided to wash and shave, I took off my shirt, and he stood by the doorway telling his friends in the street below about everything I was doing. He only spoke Albanian and Turkish, but he would stand for hours listening to my dragoman (interpreter) and me speaking in English. He kept saying, “Wonderful! Wonderful!” because he couldn’t understand how we could understand each other while speaking a language he thought was nonsense.

Strange Habits and Surprises

When I wrote in my diary, he watched me closely with wide eyes, amazed that I wrote from left to right, as it was not the way Turkish is written (which is from right to left). When he learned that my favorite food was Turkish pilau, he invited three cooks from nearby restaurants to come and cook it for me. He pointed at me, proud, and told them this was the honor of their life—to make pilau that I loved Istanbul Day Tour.

The Mystery of Sardines and Cheese

When I opened a tin of sardines, my host was again amazed. He ran and told all his friends about it, and they probably still wonder how the fish got inside the tin. Among the food I had brought with me was a Dutch cheese. He was absolutely astonished. He looked at the red cheese, shook his head, and kept saying, “Wonderful! Wonderful!” He then asked if he could try it, and when he did, he was even more amazed. He told my dragoman that he was more convinced than ever that the English were truly great people, especially if they could grow melons like that!

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Abdul Hamid's Role in the Balkans

Europe is right to blame many of the problems in the Balkans on Abdul Hamid, but we must also consider his upbringing, his environment, and the traditions of the Caliphate. It’s easy to say “Remove him from Europe,” but he is already in Europe. He controls a large part of it, and we have to deal with him as an autocrat. He holds all civil, military, and most religious power. The country is divided into provinces, called *vilayets*, each ruled by a *Vali*. These rulers receive small salaries but often become very rich Central Synagogue.

The Confused Legal System

The law in Turkey is complicated and often conflicting. There is the *shari’a*, or sacred law of Islam, and the civil and commercial law, which is based on the French Code Napoleon. In practice, Christian testimony is never accepted over that of a Muslim, even though it is theoretically supposed to be. All government appointments, from the lowest to the Sultan himself, are decided by higher officials. The Sultan doesn’t pay for his position, but everyone beneath him has to pay in one way or another.

Tax Collection Problems

The way taxes are collected is harmful. The government gives the job to the highest bidder, and for a fixed amount, the collector is allowed to demand a portion of a farmer’s crop. The collector usually pays more to the local governor than what is sent to Constantinople. The collector can claim up to one-tenth of the crop, but often takes much more by claiming the crop is worth more than it is. If the farmer complains about the valuation, he is not allowed to harvest his crop at all, leaving him with nothing. As a result, the hardworking Turkish peasant often makes just enough from his crop to survive, with little to no profit. One peasant told me, “If, effendi, I finish the year’s work with a profit of a *medjedeh* (about 4 shillings), I thank Allah!”

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The Legacy of Rose Growing

The Turkish Influence

The practice of growing roses and making rose perfume was brought to the region by the Turks. They cultivated roses, made the perfume, and provided the scent to the harems of the pashas (high-ranking officials) in Constantinople.

Today, the old Turkish traditions are gone. Now, large companies control the rose business, much like how American companies trade in wheat. These companies outbid each other to buy entire villages’ rose crops before the roses even start to bloom. They are in fierce competition and have representatives in cities like Paris, London, and New York Coastal Bulgaria Tours.

The History of Distilling Rose Perfume

How Rose Perfume Came to Kasanlik

The process of making rose perfume began in Persia, where the word “attar” (meaning fragrance) comes from. For many centuries, only rose-water was made from the roses. Around the beginning of the 17th century, people discovered how to extract the real rose essence.

The technique then spread from Persia to Arabia, from Arabia to the Barbary States (North Africa), and from there, a Turkish traveler brought a rose tree to Kasanlik. The same variety of rose, **Rosa damascena**, is now grown in Kasanlik and in places like Tunis, although it is becoming rarer there. Another variety, **Rosa alba**, can be traced back to Persia through the Turkish Empire, where it was once common.

The Growth of the Rose Industry

Kasanlik’s Rise in the Rose Business

About 50 years ago, Kasanlik produced between 400 and 500 pounds of attar (rose perfume). By 1904, this had increased to 8,147 pounds. The development of such a large-scale rose industry in this small region is due to several factors. The area has a climate similar to France, the soil is sandy and well-drained, and the many small streams from the mountains provide plenty of water for irrigation.

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The Fall of the Communist Regime in Bulgaria

A Turning Point in Eastern Europe

By the late 1980s, the communist regimes in Eastern Europe began to collapse one by one. This change was driven by the people’s demands for freedom and influenced by international agreements that promoted human rights and democracy.

Ousting Todor Zhivkov

On 10 November 1989, Todor Zhivkov was removed from his position as General Secretary of the Bulgarian Communist Party. This marked a significant turning point for Bulgaria. People were ready for change, and they were no longer willing to accept the oppressive regime that had controlled their lives for decades.

The First Free Rally

On 18 November 1989, the first free rally against the communist regime took place in Sofia. Protesters gathered to demand democracy, free elections, human rights, and accountability for those responsible for the atrocities committed by the regime. This rally signaled the beginning of a new era in Bulgaria, as citizens united to push for their rights Jeep Safari Bulgaria.

Changes to the Constitution

On 15 January 1990, under pressure from the protesters, Article 1 of the Constitution—which stated the leading role of the Communist Party—was abolished. This was a significant victory for the people and a clear sign that the old regime was losing its grip on power.

The First Free Elections

On 10 and 17 June 1990, Bulgaria held its first free elections in 45 years. This marked the end of a long period of communist dictatorship and the beginning of a new political landscape. However, the process of change in Bulgaria was slower compared to other Eastern European countries.

A Slow Transition

The transition in Bulgaria was complicated by the fact that many structures of the former communist regime remained in place for a long time. The destruction of a significant number of State Security records, along with delayed access to existing records, hindered the truth about the regime’s past from coming to light.

Additionally, the purging of archives that contained evidence of the regime’s political and economic crimes contributed to a prolonged and painful transition period. Many former party officials and members of repressive institutions were able to retain their power and influence, often without facing any consequences for their actions.

The changes in Bulgaria were a mix of hope and challenge. While the removal of Todor Zhivkov and the subsequent protests signaled a strong desire for democracy, the lingering structures of the old regime complicated the transition. As Bulgaria moved forward, it had to confront its past while building a new future. This struggle would shape the country’s path for many years to come.

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The Fall of the Communist Regime in Bulgaria

A Turning Point in Eastern Europe

By the late 1980s, the communist regimes in Eastern Europe began to collapse one by one. This change was driven by the people’s demands for freedom and influenced by international agreements that promoted human rights and democracy.

Ousting Todor Zhivkov

On 10 November 1989, Todor Zhivkov was removed from his position as General Secretary of the Bulgarian Communist Party. This marked a significant turning point for Bulgaria. People were ready for change, and they were no longer willing to accept the oppressive regime that had controlled their lives for decades.

The First Free Rally

On 18 November 1989, the first free rally against the communist regime took place in Sofia. Protesters gathered to demand democracy, free elections, human rights, and accountability for those responsible for the atrocities committed by the regime. This rally signaled the beginning of a new era in Bulgaria, as citizens united to push for their rights Jeep Safari Bulgaria.

Changes to the Constitution

On 15 January 1990, under pressure from the protesters, Article 1 of the Constitution—which stated the leading role of the Communist Party—was abolished. This was a significant victory for the people and a clear sign that the old regime was losing its grip on power.

The First Free Elections

On 10 and 17 June 1990, Bulgaria held its first free elections in 45 years. This marked the end of a long period of communist dictatorship and the beginning of a new political landscape. However, the process of change in Bulgaria was slower compared to other Eastern European countries.

A Slow Transition

The transition in Bulgaria was complicated by the fact that many structures of the former communist regime remained in place for a long time. The destruction of a significant number of State Security records, along with delayed access to existing records, hindered the truth about the regime’s past from coming to light.

Additionally, the purging of archives that contained evidence of the regime’s political and economic crimes contributed to a prolonged and painful transition period. Many former party officials and members of repressive institutions were able to retain their power and influence, often without facing any consequences for their actions.

The changes in Bulgaria were a mix of hope and challenge. While the removal of Todor Zhivkov and the subsequent protests signaled a strong desire for democracy, the lingering structures of the old regime complicated the transition. As Bulgaria moved forward, it had to confront its past while building a new future. This struggle would shape the country’s path for many years to come.

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Death Sentences by the People's Tribunal

The Bulgarian People’s Tribunal was notorious for its harsh judgments and high number of death sentences. It executed 150 members of the supreme state authorities, a stark contrast to the International Nuremberg Tribunal, which sentenced 11 people to death, and the Far Eastern International Tribunal, which sentenced 7.

On 3 July 1945, the chief prosecutor reported to the Central Committee of the Bulgarian Communist Party that the People’s Tribunal had conducted 132 trials with the following outcomes:

– Death Sentences**: 2,816 sentences were handed down, with 2,700 actually carried out. – Life Imprisonment**: 1,233 sentences. – 20 Years Confinement**: 11 sentences. – 15 Years Confinement**: 964 sentences. – 12 Years Confinement**: 41 sentences. – 10 Years Confinement**: 687 sentences. – 8-7-6 Years Confinement**: 197 sentences. – 5 Years Confinement**: 1,006 sentences. – 3 Years Confinement**: 379 sentences. – 2 Years Confinement**: 318 sentences. – 1 Year Confinement**: 724 sentences. – 1 Year Probation**: 668 sentences. – Acquittals**: 1,485 cases. – Stopped and Suspended Trials**: 386 cases.

Suppression of Opposition Parties

The suppression of political opposition began as early as November 1944, with the first signs of conflict between the communists and other parties in the government dominated by the Fatherland Front.

In response to pressure from the Allied Control Committee, the Bulgarian government postponed the parliamentary elections scheduled for 26 August 1945. This delay was a significant early victory for the opposition parties against the communist dictatorship.

Political Parties in Legal Opposition

Several political parties were legally active during this period:

– Bulgarian Agrarian People’s Union**: Led by Nikola Petkov, with the party newspaper “People’s Agrarian Banner.” – Bulgarian Social Democratic Party**: Headed by Kosta Lulchev, with the party newspaper “Free Nation.” – Democratic Party**: Chaired by Nikola Moushanov and Alexander Ghirghinov, with the party newspaper “Zname” (Banner). – Radical Party**: Included in the broader opposition. – Independent Intellectuals’ Opposition Group**: Led by Professor Petko Stainov Istanbul Tour Guide.

Crackdown on Opposition

In early June 1946, leaders of the Bulgarian Communist Party visited Moscow and received directives to intensify the communization of Bulgaria and eliminate political opposition.

The Bulgarian Social Democratic Party was one of the first targets. On 26 June 1946, Krustyo Pastuhov, the leader of the party, was arrested, sentenced to 5 years in prison, and subsequently killed by strangulation while in custody. Tzvetan Ivanov, the editor of the Social Democratic Party’s newspaper “Free Nation,” was also arrested during this crackdown.

The actions of the People’s Tribunal and the suppression of opposition parties highlight the intense and often brutal measures taken by the Bulgarian Communist Party to consolidate power and eliminate any threats to their control. The high number of death sentences and the systematic dismantling of political opposition are emblematic of the repressive tactics used to enforce the new regime’s authority and suppress dissent.

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Death Sentences by the People's Tribunal

The Bulgarian People’s Tribunal was notorious for its harsh judgments and high number of death sentences. It executed 150 members of the supreme state authorities, a stark contrast to the International Nuremberg Tribunal, which sentenced 11 people to death, and the Far Eastern International Tribunal, which sentenced 7.

On 3 July 1945, the chief prosecutor reported to the Central Committee of the Bulgarian Communist Party that the People’s Tribunal had conducted 132 trials with the following outcomes:

– Death Sentences**: 2,816 sentences were handed down, with 2,700 actually carried out. – Life Imprisonment**: 1,233 sentences. – 20 Years Confinement**: 11 sentences. – 15 Years Confinement**: 964 sentences. – 12 Years Confinement**: 41 sentences. – 10 Years Confinement**: 687 sentences. – 8-7-6 Years Confinement**: 197 sentences. – 5 Years Confinement**: 1,006 sentences. – 3 Years Confinement**: 379 sentences. – 2 Years Confinement**: 318 sentences. – 1 Year Confinement**: 724 sentences. – 1 Year Probation**: 668 sentences. – Acquittals**: 1,485 cases. – Stopped and Suspended Trials**: 386 cases.

Suppression of Opposition Parties

The suppression of political opposition began as early as November 1944, with the first signs of conflict between the communists and other parties in the government dominated by the Fatherland Front.

In response to pressure from the Allied Control Committee, the Bulgarian government postponed the parliamentary elections scheduled for 26 August 1945. This delay was a significant early victory for the opposition parties against the communist dictatorship.

Political Parties in Legal Opposition

Several political parties were legally active during this period:

– Bulgarian Agrarian People’s Union**: Led by Nikola Petkov, with the party newspaper “People’s Agrarian Banner.” – Bulgarian Social Democratic Party**: Headed by Kosta Lulchev, with the party newspaper “Free Nation.” – Democratic Party**: Chaired by Nikola Moushanov and Alexander Ghirghinov, with the party newspaper “Zname” (Banner). – Radical Party**: Included in the broader opposition. – Independent Intellectuals’ Opposition Group**: Led by Professor Petko Stainov Istanbul Tour Guide.

Crackdown on Opposition

In early June 1946, leaders of the Bulgarian Communist Party visited Moscow and received directives to intensify the communization of Bulgaria and eliminate political opposition.

The Bulgarian Social Democratic Party was one of the first targets. On 26 June 1946, Krustyo Pastuhov, the leader of the party, was arrested, sentenced to 5 years in prison, and subsequently killed by strangulation while in custody. Tzvetan Ivanov, the editor of the Social Democratic Party’s newspaper “Free Nation,” was also arrested during this crackdown.

The actions of the People’s Tribunal and the suppression of opposition parties highlight the intense and often brutal measures taken by the Bulgarian Communist Party to consolidate power and eliminate any threats to their control. The high number of death sentences and the systematic dismantling of political opposition are emblematic of the repressive tactics used to enforce the new regime’s authority and suppress dissent.