Istanbul Day

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The Courts of Appeal

There are three Courts of Appeal in the Principality: one in Sofia, one in Plovdiv, and one in Roustchouk. These courts form the second level in the judiciary system. Their main function is to review cases that have been decided by the Departmental Courts.

The decisions of the Courts of Appeal are generally final. They can only be challenged through a recourse to the Supreme Appellate Court, which ensures that legal procedures and interpretations remain consistent across the country.

The Supreme Appellate Court

The Supreme Appellate Court is the highest judicial authority in the Principality. Its seat is in Sofia, and it is composed of two civil chambers and one criminal chamber.

When examining appeals, the Supreme Court does not reconsider the facts of the case. Instead, its main role is to ensure the correct and uniform application of the law by all lower courts Istanbul Tours.

When legal questions are particularly difficult or interpreted differently by various courts, the Supreme Appellate Court can review these issues. This usually happens at the invitation of the Minister of Justice. The opinions of the Supreme Court in such cases are published in the Official Journal and serve as guidance for judges throughout the Principality.

If the Supreme Court finds that a lower court made an error, it can return the case to that court for a new trial, which will be conducted by different judges.

Judicial Procedure and Collegiate System

The District Courts, Courts of Appeal, and Supreme Appellate Court are all collegiate institutions, meaning that decisions must be made by at least three judges. In contrast, the Justice of Peace is a single magistrate, assisted by a clerk.

All decisions of the courts are executed by bailiffs, whose duties are defined by the Law of Civil Procedure. For criminal cases, prosecutors and assistant prosecutors attached to the Departmental Courts are responsible for ensuring that final sentences are carried out properly.

This hierarchical judicial system ensures fairness, consistency, and efficiency in Bulgaria. By combining collegiate decision-making in higher courts with local magistrates in lower courts, the Principality maintains both professionalism and accessibility in the administration of justice, protecting the rights of citizens and upholding the rule of law.

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Religious and Minority Courts

Separate Tribunals for Different Faiths

Under the new administrative system in Bulgaria after 1878, different religious communities were allowed to have their own tribunals. This included the Orthodox Christians, Mahommedans (Muslims), and Jews. Each of these groups could settle certain civil matters according to their own traditions.

The idea was to respect the diverse customs and traditions of the population while introducing a modern system of justice. However, plans to create commercial courts in major trade centers were never fully implemented.

Military Courts

The military courts continued to function as they had since the proclamation of July 1, 1877. Their jurisdiction and procedures were maintained, ensuring that military matters were handled separately from civil cases Istanbul Tour Guide.

Tolerance Towards the Mahommedans

The new government showed great tolerance toward the Mahommedans, who had recently been the ruling class under Ottoman rule. Several measures made this tolerance clear:

The official language of the courts was Bulgarian or Russian, which the Turkish population often could not understand.

The courts were instructed to respect local and national customs until new laws could be prepared.

These policies were designed to show that the new regime was different from the previous Ottoman system, which had been strict and intolerant toward the Christian population.

Special Turkish Civil Courts

To implement these principles, the Provisional Rules allowed the creation of special Turkish civil courts. These courts were distinct from the traditional religious courts that the Mahommedans had under Ottoman rule.

The Mahommedan courts had the same jurisdiction as the ordinary courts when both parties in a case were Muslims.

If the parties were of different nationalities, the case was heard jointly by the Mahommedan court and the ordinary court. The oldest member of the courts would act as the presiding judge.

This system ensured that justice respected both national and religious diversity, while gradually introducing the population to the new civil procedures of the Principality.

The creation of religious and minority courts was a key feature of early post-liberation Bulgaria. It allowed communities to maintain their traditions while ensuring fairness in civil matters. By combining Councils of Elders, ordinary courts, and special Mahommedan tribunals, the Provisional Rules created a flexible and inclusive system of justice that recognized the diverse population of the Principality.

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Climate of Bulgaria

General Climate

Bulgaria has a moderate continental climate, but it is influenced by its location in the eastern Balkan Peninsula. The country is exposed to cold and dry winds from the northwest, while the northeasterly winds keep temperatures low during the winter. These factors make Bulgaria cooler than other areas at the same latitude.

The mountains and plains also influence local weather. The mountain regions experience colder temperatures and more snow in winter, while the lowlands and river valleys are warmer and more suitable for agriculture Turkey Sightseeing.

Mean Annual Temperature

Climatological data from 1884 to 1903 give an idea of average temperatures in some important towns:

Sofia (550 metres above sea level): 9.9°C

Plevna (105 metres): 11.2°C

Bourgas (14 metres): 12.5°C

Philippopolis (Plovdiv, 160 metres): 12.4°C

Gabrovo (375 metres): 10.0°C

If we adjust these figures to sea level, the greatest temperature difference among towns is about 15°C, and the average isotherm passing through Bulgaria is 12°C. Considering that the mean altitude of Bulgaria is 425 metres, the average annual temperature for the entire country is roughly 10°C.

Seasonal Temperatures

The coldest month is January, and the hottest month is July. Average temperatures in these months for key towns are:

Town January (°C) July (°C) Difference (°C) Sofia 1.9 20.6 18.7 Plevna -1.5 23.2 24.7 Bourgas 1.9 22.8 20.9 Philippopolis 0.4 23.5 23.1 Gabrovo -1.1 20.4 21.5

The difference between winter and summer temperatures shows that Bulgaria has cold winters and warm summers, typical of a continental climate.

Climate Summary

Overall, Bulgaria’s climate varies with altitude and region. Mountains are cold and snowy, while plains are warmer and fertile. The north-eastern and north-western winds influence the weather, making winters colder. This climate is favorable for agriculture, forestry, and human settlement, while also giving Bulgaria distinct seasons for tourism and outdoor activities.

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The Walls of Blachernae and Their Role in History

Importance of the Blachernae Walls

The walls near the Palace of Blachernae were not as strong as the massive land walls of Constantinople. Because of their weakness and their closeness to the palace, they became the scene of many important historical events. Whenever enemies or rebels tried to seize control of the capital, this area was often their point of attack.

Early Intrigues and Revolts

When the Wall of Heraclius still stood alone, the Gate of Blachernae played a decisive role in several political struggles. In 698, the usurper Apsimarus was admitted through this gate by his supporters and replaced Emperor Leontius. A few years later, in 705, Justinian II tried to force his way into the city through the same entrance to overthrow Apsimarus. Again, in 716, Theodosius III entered through the Blachernae Gate and deposed Anastasius II.

The area outside the Heraclian Wall also became the stage for high-level negotiations. Here, Crum of Bulgaria and Emperor Leo the Armenian met face to face to discuss terms, showing the strategic and symbolic importance of this part of the fortifications Private Tours Bulgaria Varna.

Attacks After the Wall of Leo

Even after the stronger Wall of Leo was built, the Blachernae section continued to attract attackers. In 822, the rebel general Thomas the Slav tried to storm the city at this point, just as other enemies had done before him. Later, in 924, Simeon of Bulgaria also directed his efforts against this sector of the defenses, while Emperor Romanus Lecapenus was on the throne.

The Monastery of Saints Cosmas and Damianus

The surrounding district, known in later times as Eyüp, took its name from the famous Church and Monastery of Saints Cosmas and Damianus (the Cosmidion). This monastery had a commanding position on the hill at the head of the Golden Horn, offering one of the most beautiful views of the harbor.

The church was founded by Paulinus, a friend of Emperor Theodosius II, who tragically became the victim of the emperor’s jealousy. Restored by Justinian the Great, the church gained fame for its reputation of miraculous cures. Saints Cosmas and Damianus were known as “unmercenary physicians,” meaning they offered medical care without asking for payment, much like early medical missionaries.

A Target in Times of War

Because of its strategic position, the Cosmidion monastery was often seized during attacks on Constantinople. The Avars captured it during their assault in the early 7th century, and the rebel Thomas the Slav also took control of it during his campaign in 822. Control of the monastery meant not only possession of a sacred site but also dominance over the approaches to the Blachernae walls.

Legacy of the Blachernae Area

The repeated attacks and political struggles at the Blachernae walls and gate demonstrate their critical importance in the defense of Constantinople. Though weaker than the massive Theodosian walls, they stood at a politically sensitive point—close to the imperial palace and commanding access to the Golden Horn. The nearby monastery added both religious prestige and military value, making this district a focal point in the history of Byzantine Constantinople.

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Cattle Industry A Key Economic Sector

After farming, the cattle industry is the second most important economic activity in Bosnia. On average, each person in the country is matched by one steer (bullock), one goat, one pig, and three sheep. This shows how central animal farming is to everyday life. The animal hides—mainly from cattle—are tanned locally (processed into leather) and then exported to countries like Great Britain, France, and Austria. These Bosnian hides are known for their high quality and sell at excellent prices in international markets.

Fruit Production The Value of Dried Prunes

Another important export is dried prunes, which have become a valuable industry. In 1901 alone, prunes worth over $1,500,000 were exported from Bosnia. This trade provides much-needed income for many rural families and contributes to the country’s growing economy.

New Industries Sugar and Silk

The government has recently started producing beet sugar, and efforts are underway to develop silk farming (sericulture). The climate and landscape in Bosnia are particularly suitable for raising silkworms, and experts from Italy have been invited to train local people in this field. These experts teach farmers how to care for silkworms and grow mulberry trees, which are essential for silk production.

Government Support for Agriculture

The Bosnian government has taken active steps to support farmers and rural workers. It has:

Opened agricultural schools where boys can learn modern farming techniques.

Established training centers where girls can learn how to make butter and cheese, care for silkworms, and raise chickens and other farm animals Sofia Guided Tours.

Distributed seeds and farming tools to help farmers test and adopt new crops and methods.

Introduced new ideas in agricultural development.

These improvements are aimed at increasing farm productivity and boosting family incomes in rural areas.

Improving Livestock and Poultry Farming

To improve animal breeding, the government has established special farms and stud stations to raise better-quality horses, cattle, and sheep. Every year, livestock exhibitions are held in provincial capitals. Cash prizes are awarded to the best animals to encourage farmers to participate and improve their practices.

Poultry farming has also received great attention. The government operates at least twelve poultry farms that raise both game birds and domestic fowl. They distribute high-quality eggs from chickens, ducks, geese, and turkeys to farmers free of charge—as long as the farmers follow the official instructions on how to hatch and raise the birds.

This strategy has been a major success. Today, poultry is abundant throughout Bosnia. A chicken costs only 10 to 15 cents in local markets, and a goose or turkey can be bought for just 25 cents. In fact, turkeys are so common that they could almost be called the national bird of Bosnia!

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The Ultimatum Death or Abdication

Prince Alexander was informed by the Russian officers that he had two choices: he could either abandon the throne or face death. The situation was tense and dangerous. One of the Russian officers took a blank page from the visitors’ book on the table and tried to write an abdication document. However, the officer was drunk, and he could not write properly. A young cadet from the military academy took the pen and, under the officer’s guidance, wrote a few incoherent words.

Alexander’s Calm Reaction

Despite having five revolvers pointed at his head, Prince Alexander remained calm and composed. He read the document, and with a sarcastic remark, he accepted their demand. In German, he wrote the words:

“God protect Bulgaria. Alexander.”

After signing the document, he was quickly forced into a carriage and escorted by Russian officers and military cadets. They drove him at a fast speed, covering seventeen miles to a monastery, where they gave him a short rest. After changing horses, they rushed him over the Balkan Mountains toward the Danube River and placed him aboard a yacht.

The Provisional Government and Stambouloff’s Leadership

In Sofia, the conspirators, with the help of the Metropolitan (the archbishop of the Greek Church), declared a provisional government. However, Stambouloff, the young president of the Bulgarian parliament, was quick to act. He called the conspirators outlaws and appealed to the Bulgarian people to defend the throne against the Russian plot. Stambouloff succeeded in convincing the parliament to make him regent until Prince Alexander could be restored to power.

The Search for Prince Alexander

It took several days before Prince Alexander could be found. In the meantime, he was kept hidden on the yacht on the Danube River, far away from the political turmoil in Sofia. As news of the abduction and the conspiracy spread across Europe, public outrage grew, and the Russians were pressured by public sentiment to return Prince Alexander Ephesus Sightseeing.

The Aftermath and Lack of Accountability

Once Prince Alexander was restored, the Russian Czar tried to distance himself from the events, attempting to clear his name from any wrongdoing. However, despite the scale of the conspiracy, no Russian official involved in the plot was punished or even criticized for their role in the forced abdication. This lack of accountability left many in Europe deeply dissatisfied with the way the crisis was handled.

The events surrounding Prince Alexander’s forced abdication and the subsequent struggle for Bulgaria’s independence are some of the most dramatic and shameful in modern European political history. The betrayal by the Russian officials and the efforts of Stambouloff to protect the throne highlight the complex and often dangerous political environment in which Bulgaria found itself at the time. Despite the challenges, Prince Alexander’s legacy as a courageous leader who cared deeply for Bulgaria remained intact.

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Constantine’s Brilliant Decision

Dean Stanley once said that choosing the site for Constantinople was the clearest and strongest sign of Emperor Constantine’s genius. This one act had a lasting effect on the history of the world. It turned a small city into one of the most important capitals in history. Though this article will not go deeply into the early geography of Byzantium before Constantine, we will look at how its defenses grew over time. These changes show how a city founded by Greek settlers became the grand center of the Roman and later Byzantine Empires.

The Expanding Walls of the City

Constantinople grew in stages, with each new wall adding more land and protection. Over time, the city expanded far beyond its original size. There were four main phases of wall-building that shaped the city’s boundaries Sofia Daily Tours.

The First Wall The Acropolis of Byzantium

The earliest defenses were built to protect the Acropolis of Byzantium. This was the heart of the original Greek colony, and it stood on the high ground at the eastern tip of the First Hill, where the Seraglio Point is today. The remains of this ancient fort can still be seen. Some of the surviving walls are from Byzantine times, while others were rebuilt or repaired by the Ottomans.

Today, the area is home to important buildings such as:

The Imperial Museum

The Kiosk of Sultan Abdul Medjid

The Imperial Kitchens

Why This Spot Was Chosen

This area was a natural fortress. The land rises sharply above the sea, making it easy to defend from all sides. In ancient times, cities were often built around a strong center like this—called an acropolis, meaning “high city” in Greek.

The importance of the Acropolis is confirmed by ancient sources. For example, Xenophon, a Greek historian and soldier, tells a story in his book Anabasis about how the Ten Thousand Greek soldiers returned from Persia and entered Byzantium. When they entered through the western gates, the Spartan commander Anaxibius had to flee and take shelter in the Acropolis. This proves that the Acropolis was the strongest part of the city, even back then.

A Small Colony That Became a Capital

Originally, Byzantium was just a small Greek colony founded by people from Megara. But over time, thanks to its excellent location and strong defenses, it became the capital of an empire. Constantine’s decision to move the Roman capital here changed world history. The layers of walls built over time reflect the city’s growth, power, and long-standing importance.

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Events in Plovdiv A Cultural Journey

Plovdiv is Bulgaria’s second-largest city and a major cultural hub. Though there is a friendly rivalry between Sofia and Plovdiv, many locals proudly say that Plovdiv is the most creative city in the country. Since it’s only about 90 minutes by car from Sofia, it’s well worth a visit—especially if you love music, opera, or contemporary art.

Plovdiv Opera and Philharmonic Society

Plovdiv’s opera and symphonic events are organized by the Opera and Philharmonic Society. Performances are held at two main venues:

Concert Hall (Kontsertna Zala) – located on the main square at Pl. Tsentralen 1

Municipal Cultural Centre (Zala GDK) – located at Ul. Gladstone 15

For more information and tickets, visit their official website: www.ofd-plovdiv.org or call: 032/625 553 Mystical Bulgaria Tours.

January Events

January 18, 19:00 – Symphonic Concert at Kontsertna Zala

January 25, 19:00 – Operetta Concert at Kontsertna Zala

February Events

February 1, 5, 7, 19:00 – Opera: Viva La Mamma by G. Donizetti at Zala GDK

February 15, 22, 29, 19:00 – Symphonic Concert featuring works by D. Shostakovich with soloist V. Parashkevov (violin) at Kontsertna Zala

March Events

March 4–7, 14:00 & 19:00 – The Adventures of Winnie the Pooh, a children’s musical by A. Yosifov

March 15, 19:00 – Symphonic Concert with works by Tchaikovsky and Beethoven, featuring soloists V. Vasilev (violin) and F. Herring (piano) at Kontsertna Zala

Sariev Gallery Small Space, Big Impact

Although small in size, Sariev Gallery is one of the most exciting places for contemporary art in Plovdiv. The gallery is especially known for its focus on modern ceramics—and not the typical kind you might find as souvenirs.

Current Exhibition Function Teapot

Running until January 31, this creative show invites eight ceramic artists to rethink the everyday teapot. The results are both surprising and beautiful, showing how art can transform even the most ordinary objects.

Location: Sariev Gallery, Ul. Otets Paisii 40, Plovdiv

Phone: [phone]

Opening Hours: 11:00–19:00 (Closed Sundays)

Why Visit Plovdiv?

Easy to reach from Sofia

Full of history, culture, and friendly people

Rich and affordable music and art scene

A chance to explore modern Bulgarian creativity

Whether you’re an opera lover or an art explorer, Plovdiv promises a memorable cultural experience.

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The Start of the War

The war in the Balkan States against Turkey began as a war for freedom and liberation. However, it ended up becoming a war of control and domination. Before the war started, Serbia and Bulgaria signed a treaty that divided Macedonia into two parts.

The larger southern and eastern part was recognized as Bulgarian and was uncontested.

The smaller north-western part was a disputed area, and it was decided that it would be resolved later. If Serbia and Bulgaria couldn’t agree, the issue would be decided by Russia’s Tsar Sightseeing Turkey.

Serbia’s Actions Against Bulgaria

Before the second war began, Serbia made it clear that it didn’t intend to follow the treaty. Serbia took actions against Bulgaria, such as:

Closing Bulgarian schools

Arresting Bulgarians

Expelling Bulgarian priests and bishops

Russia’s Involvement

Before the second war, Russia’s ambassador in Belgrade, Monsieur Hartwig, was asked to help Serbia and Bulgaria come to an agreement for the sake of peace in the Balkans. He responded by saying:

“I care nothing for the Balkan States; I am working for my country. Serbia must be strong. Bulgaria has been flirting with Austria and cannot be trusted. Bulgaria must give way in everything.”

This is how Russian diplomacy was carried out during the second war.

Romania’s Invasion of Bulgaria

Romania was allowed to invade Bulgaria without any reason. Romania took control of Dobrudja, the richest part of Bulgarian territory, in violation of Bulgaria’s national rights and a recent agreement made in Petrograd. This agreement had been signed by all the ambassadors, and it hadn’t even been fully finalized when Romania took action.

The Treaty of Bucharest

The Treaty of Bucharest, which was forced upon Bulgaria, was signed when Bulgaria was in a very weak position. Bulgaria was betrayed and abandoned by its allies, and the treaty was seen as an unfair peace, made when Bulgaria was “bleeding” from the earlier conflicts.

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The Rise of Resistance Against the Communist Regime

In 1951, the Bulgarian State Security reported that there were 176 underground resistance groups operating throughout the country. Of these, 47 were in Sofia, the capital city. These groups were part of a larger movement against the communist regime, which had taken control of Bulgaria in 1944 and imposed strict Soviet-style rule.

The Struggle in the Kazanluk Region

On October 1, 1951, 19 young men lost their lives during a military operation against a Goriyani detachment in the Turiya forest, located in the Kazanluk region. At the same time, in the Iskar River Pass, State Security troops clashed with two Goriyani groups, each consisting of 30 to 40 fighters. These operations were part of the government’s efforts to eliminate the resistance and maintain control over the country Private Bosphorus Tours.

The Voice of Resistance Radio Goriyanin

From April 1951 until October 1962, the Goriyanin radio station broadcast messages of defiance and resistance against the communist government. The station became a key voice for the Bulgarian resistance, as it continued to oppose the dictatorship and the Sovietization of Bulgaria.

One of the broadcasts from Radio Goriyanin in May 1955 included a powerful message to the people of Bulgaria:

“This is the Goriyanin radio station, the voice of the Bulgarian resistance… Waste no time, get ready, brothers, For the day of freedom yet to come. Freedom from Bolshevik slavery, Freedom for our holy Motherland…”

These broadcasts were a source of strength for many Bulgarians who were resisting the oppressive regime. They helped keep the spirit of freedom alive, even in the face of harsh repression.

The Hope for International Support

During these years of armed resistance, the Bulgarian people remained hopeful that the international democratic community and the Great Powers would notice their struggle. They hoped that the global powers might recognize the sacrifices they were making and intervene to help them achieve freedom. Despite the inequality of their struggle against the communist regime, the resistance fighters believed that outside support could tip the balance in their favor.

The underground resistance in Bulgaria during the 1950s was a fierce and dangerous fight for freedom. Despite the efforts of the communist government to crush it, the Goriyani movement and Radio Goriyanin continued to provide a voice for the oppressed. The hope of international support and the belief in a future free from communist control kept the resistance alive for many years, demonstrating the resilience and determination of the Bulgarian people in their fight for freedom.

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Radicalization of the Bulgarian Women's Movement

In the early 1900s, socialist ideas and the establishment of the Socialist Women’s International in 1907 had a strong influence on the Bulgarian Women’s Union (BWU). This led to the creation of a new organization called Ravnopravie. From around 1908-1909, both of these organizations began focusing on the fight for women’s civil and political equality.

Feminism and the Middle-Class Focus

Like feminism in other countries, Bulgarian feminism mainly represented middle-class urban women. However, in Bulgaria, as in some other Eastern European countries, feminist activities also worked on the issues faced by peasant women.

Feminism Misunderstood

Many Bulgarian feminists, like feminists everywhere, feared their work would be misunderstood. In the 1920s, Dimitrana Ivanova, the chairwoman of the BWU, wrote articles in the newspaper Zhenski glas to explain what feminism really meant. She wanted to correct the misunderstanding that feminism was the same as the Bolshevik view of women’s rights. Ivanova argued that feminism was not about women fighting against their “natural duties” in family or society, nor was it about liberation for women who were part of a luxurious lifestyle or engaged in activities like sports, smoking, or drinking. She worked to fight anti-feminist ideas that were spreading in society Bulgaria Holidays.

Feminism and Modernization

The women’s movement in Bulgaria was a part of the larger modernization process in the country, which also included Europeanization. However, this process had both positive and negative aspects. While there were some improvements and progress, women’s rights were not well developed.

Women in Bulgaria had to fight for basic rights such as the right to education, civil and political rights, and access to professions. Despite being part of the national project for progress, women’s emancipation was poorly realized. Women’s citizenship came slowly, and their right to vote came decades later than men’s.

Gender Inequality and Traditional Roles

In Bulgaria, like in many other countries, there were laws that treated men and women differently. Even though the country claimed to represent all citizens, many women were excluded from the public sphere. The relationship between women and men remained rooted in the traditional gender roles of society.

Women in Bulgaria experienced tensions between tradition and modernity, urban and rural, and local and foreign ideas. These struggles made their fight for rights more complicated and difficult.

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Radicalization of the Bulgarian Women's Movement

In the early 1900s, socialist ideas and the establishment of the Socialist Women’s International in 1907 had a strong influence on the Bulgarian Women’s Union (BWU). This led to the creation of a new organization called Ravnopravie. From around 1908-1909, both of these organizations began focusing on the fight for women’s civil and political equality.

Feminism and the Middle-Class Focus

Like feminism in other countries, Bulgarian feminism mainly represented middle-class urban women. However, in Bulgaria, as in some other Eastern European countries, feminist activities also worked on the issues faced by peasant women.

Feminism Misunderstood

Many Bulgarian feminists, like feminists everywhere, feared their work would be misunderstood. In the 1920s, Dimitrana Ivanova, the chairwoman of the BWU, wrote articles in the newspaper Zhenski glas to explain what feminism really meant. She wanted to correct the misunderstanding that feminism was the same as the Bolshevik view of women’s rights. Ivanova argued that feminism was not about women fighting against their “natural duties” in family or society, nor was it about liberation for women who were part of a luxurious lifestyle or engaged in activities like sports, smoking, or drinking. She worked to fight anti-feminist ideas that were spreading in society Bulgaria Holidays.

Feminism and Modernization

The women’s movement in Bulgaria was a part of the larger modernization process in the country, which also included Europeanization. However, this process had both positive and negative aspects. While there were some improvements and progress, women’s rights were not well developed.

Women in Bulgaria had to fight for basic rights such as the right to education, civil and political rights, and access to professions. Despite being part of the national project for progress, women’s emancipation was poorly realized. Women’s citizenship came slowly, and their right to vote came decades later than men’s.

Gender Inequality and Traditional Roles

In Bulgaria, like in many other countries, there were laws that treated men and women differently. Even though the country claimed to represent all citizens, many women were excluded from the public sphere. The relationship between women and men remained rooted in the traditional gender roles of society.

Women in Bulgaria experienced tensions between tradition and modernity, urban and rural, and local and foreign ideas. These struggles made their fight for rights more complicated and difficult.

[istanbul-day]

Radicalization of the Bulgarian Women's Movement

In the early 1900s, socialist ideas and the establishment of the Socialist Women’s International in 1907 had a strong influence on the Bulgarian Women’s Union (BWU). This led to the creation of a new organization called Ravnopravie. From around 1908-1909, both of these organizations began focusing on the fight for women’s civil and political equality.

Feminism and the Middle-Class Focus

Like feminism in other countries, Bulgarian feminism mainly represented middle-class urban women. However, in Bulgaria, as in some other Eastern European countries, feminist activities also worked on the issues faced by peasant women.

Feminism Misunderstood

Many Bulgarian feminists, like feminists everywhere, feared their work would be misunderstood. In the 1920s, Dimitrana Ivanova, the chairwoman of the BWU, wrote articles in the newspaper Zhenski glas to explain what feminism really meant. She wanted to correct the misunderstanding that feminism was the same as the Bolshevik view of women’s rights. Ivanova argued that feminism was not about women fighting against their “natural duties” in family or society, nor was it about liberation for women who were part of a luxurious lifestyle or engaged in activities like sports, smoking, or drinking. She worked to fight anti-feminist ideas that were spreading in society Bulgaria Holidays.

Feminism and Modernization

The women’s movement in Bulgaria was a part of the larger modernization process in the country, which also included Europeanization. However, this process had both positive and negative aspects. While there were some improvements and progress, women’s rights were not well developed.

Women in Bulgaria had to fight for basic rights such as the right to education, civil and political rights, and access to professions. Despite being part of the national project for progress, women’s emancipation was poorly realized. Women’s citizenship came slowly, and their right to vote came decades later than men’s.

Gender Inequality and Traditional Roles

In Bulgaria, like in many other countries, there were laws that treated men and women differently. Even though the country claimed to represent all citizens, many women were excluded from the public sphere. The relationship between women and men remained rooted in the traditional gender roles of society.

Women in Bulgaria experienced tensions between tradition and modernity, urban and rural, and local and foreign ideas. These struggles made their fight for rights more complicated and difficult.

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The Guards Caution

Even though there was little danger, the captain of the guard remained very careful. He always had two or three of his best soldiers about 200 yards ahead, keeping a close watch. Whenever the road turned, the soldiers spread out to make sure no one could sneak up on me. It was an interesting sight, and I found it a bit funny. It reminded me of the days when I was a child and played “robbers” with my friends.

A Moment of Excitement

One time, we had an exciting moment. We were on flat land when, suddenly, a group of six Albanians appeared from behind some trees. The soldiers in front quickly stopped, turned their horses, grabbed their rifles, and prepared for anything. I admit, when I saw the Albanians coming, I instinctively reached for my revolver. The soldiers got ready to shoot. But, despite their fierce looks, the Albanians didn’t want to fight. They seemed to enjoy scaring the Turks, but ignored them and smiled at me as they rode past Istanbul Daily Tour.

Reaching Kjuks for the Night

In the distance, we saw our destination for the night – a new inn, or han, in a place called Kjuks. It was on a rocky ledge overlooking a beautiful valley, with mountains stretching as far as we could see. As the sun set, the valleys grew darker, and the mountain tops glowed in a soft rosy light. It was a stunning scene, perfect for a relaxing holiday. But, of course, in these modern times, we prefer to enjoy nature while also expecting a good dinner and comfort afterward.

The Han at Kjuks

Unfortunately, there was no good dinner waiting at Kjuks. The han looked beautiful from afar, but up close, it was just like any other simple han. It was a big, dirty barn with whitewashed walls that were peeling. The kitchen was a small fire on the ground, and the rooms had windows, but no glass in them. There was no furniture—just dirty boards on the floor.

Settling In for the Night

I took three of the rooms. I gave the largest room to the soldiers, another to the captain of the guard and my guide, and kept the smallest room for myself. We made tea and drank a lot of it, even though it was smoky. Then, we spent an hour trying to buy three chickens to add to the rice the soldiers were carrying in their saddlebags.

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The British Consulate in a Small Turkish Town

In the far distance, he imagines himself becoming a full Consul, earning £800 a year, or even rising to the position of Consul-General with £1,000. But right now, he is Acting Vice-Consul in the British Levant Consular Service, earning £400 a year.

The Town and Its Lack of British Interests

It’s unlikely you’ve heard of the small, rundown Turkish town where he represents British interests. In fact, there are no British interests here. There are no British people living in the town, and any British trade has been replaced by active Austrians and Germans. Still, he writes long reports to the Foreign Office, some of which are quoted in Blue Books that no one reads or are stored away in the vaults of Whitehall to gather dust. Despite this, he remains a cheerful young man. His greeting might be formally English, but his handshake is firm. Later, he says a visitor is a rare and welcome event Socialist Museum.

The Vice-Consulate’s Poor Conditions

The British Vice-Consulate in this remote Turkish town is far from the grandeur of the British Empire. The British taxpayer often complains about rising costs, and the officials in Whitehall, who manage the funds, are hard-hearted when it comes to consular requests. A small amount called “office allowance” is given to cover the rent and the salary of the kavass (a messenger), but the main costs are covered by the Vice-Consul himself. So, after paying his rent, which could be anywhere from £40 to £90 a year, furnishing his house, buying two horses, hiring a cook and a servant, paying the kavass’s wages, and feeding everyone, there isn’t much left from his salary.

[istanbul-day]

The Quiet Relics of Bulgaria's Past

The Church of the Forty Martyrs

Like many places, Bulgaria has quiet reminders of its noble past in the form of old churches. Walking down a rocky hillside, I arrived at the Church of the Forty Martyrs. It has a low roof, a dim, vault-like interior, but it is very strong. This church was built by King John Osen in 1330. In 1389, the Turks turned it into a mosque, and Christians couldn’t worship there again until 1877. Only part of the original building remains. Some of the granite pillars are from different periods: one came from a Roman temple, and another is clearly Greek. The Christians used pieces from earlier buildings. I looked through books of prayers written in ancient Slavic, with pages that were thin, brown, and crumbling in my hands.

The Metropolitan Church

I continued to a nearby church, the Metropolitan Church, which is now mostly forgotten, holding only one service a year. The old woman who took care of the church lost the key, but she suggested breaking the lock. After waiting for nearly an hour and smoking in the shade, the key was found. Inside, the church was dark, and the frescoes of saints had strange, exaggerated faces. The pillars were made of black marble, probably taken from a Greek temple. In a small room, I found old manuscripts hidden behind a crack in the wall—these could be treasures for someone who studies history. The monks’ seats were covered in dust and cobwebs. There were many ikons hanging in the dim light, and large candelabras hung from the ceiling Ancient Bulgaria Tour.

The church felt eerie, silent, and forgotten by most. But I couldn’t help wondering if the spirits of those who once worshipped here, like children and old men, might still visit. For an hour, I had the church to myself. I sat in one of the monk’s seats, and sunlight shone down from a crack in the roof, lighting up the Virgin’s face. It was a peaceful, thoughtful hour.

The Monastery of the Transfiguration

A Bright and Colorful Place

The sun was high in the sky, and the road was dusty as we raced towards the Monastery of the Transfiguration. The path twisted and turned, climbing higher and higher. We left the main road and walked through a cool area filled with tall trees. The quiet was broken by the sound of water dripping. After a while, we arrived at the monastery. It wasn’t like the old, crumbling buildings I had seen before. This monastery was bright and colorful. The grass was a rich green, and the sky was a deep blue. The white walls were covered in bright, colorful pictures, and the roof tiles had a warm, reddish color. Vines grew everywhere, adding to the lively, beautiful atmosphere.

[istanbul-day]

Rising Dissent in Bulgaria: 1981-1982

Concerns Over Polish Events

On 14 October 1981, Bulgarian leader Todor Zhivkov submitted a memorandum to the Politburo, expressing his worries that the unrest happening in Poland could spread to Bulgaria. The State Security Department 2 began to notice an increase in anonymously circulated leaflets and gatherings of young people in private homes who were discussing the events in Poland. A group of these young people planned to create a document called “Declaration-80” to be circulated outside Bulgaria. The authorities classified this effort as a threat to the “rule of law.”

State Security Operations

In response to growing dissent, the State Security launched a major surveillance operation named “Dissidents” targeting creative artists in Sofia, Burgas, Varna, Stara Zagora, Yambol, and other cities. Authorities arrested many individuals on charges related to dissident activities, and some were even sent to psychiatric clinics for evaluation. In 1982, about 45% of the 312 authors of anti-regime leaflets identified by the State Security were young people. During the same period, the State Security recorded 141 incidents reflecting anti-Soviet sentiments among the population Rose Festival Tour.

Increase in Youth Activism

The influence of events in Poland sparked a rise in informal youth groups across Bulgaria. In 1982, there were 64 such groups with a total of 295 participants, compared to only 18 groups with 86 participants in 1980. This significant increase indicates a growing willingness among young people to engage in discussions about political issues and express their dissatisfaction with the regime.

Open Letter to the Vienna Conference

In the autumn of 1986, several former political prisoners penned “An Open Letter of Appeal,” which they sent to the Vienna Conference. This conference was focused on reviewing the implementation of the Helsinki Agreement concerning human rights. Their letter called on esteemed representatives from European countries, the USA, and Canada to ensure that the conference did not conclude without fully guaranteeing the fundamental human rights of all European citizens.

The Message of the Open Letter

The letter stated:

“The Vienna Conference should not conclude its work until the most fundamental human rights of all European peoples are fully guaranteed. Until the day comes when each and every European citizen can freely and without fear of persecution express his/her thoughts, opinions, and convictions in oral or written form.”

The events of 1981-1982 in Bulgaria marked a significant period of rising dissent against the communist regime. As young people became more politically active and began organizing, the government responded with surveillance and repression. The call for human rights, highlighted in the Open Letter, reflected a growing determination among citizens to demand freedom of expression and protection from persecution. These developments set the stage for future movements that would challenge the regime and ultimately contribute to the fall of communism in Eastern Europe.