Lalka Bulgaria

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Use of Fines

All fines collected for failure to comply with compulsory education are added to the school funds of the respective parishes. This ensures that the penalties directly support local education, helping to improve facilities and resources for all pupils.

Supplementary Instruction

To expand the knowledge gained in primary schools, the authorities organize evening and holiday classes. These classes are offered for free, with the voluntary cooperation of primary school teachers.

In recent years, the Ministry of Public Instruction has started giving awards to outstanding teachers, ranging from 20 to 150 francs, as recognition for their dedication Istanbul City Tour.

The curriculum in these supplementary classes goes beyond standard subjects and includes practical skills:

Agriculture

Viticulture (grape growing)

Sericulture (silk production)

Apiculture (beekeeping)

Fructiculture (fruit cultivation)

For girls, additional subjects include:

Dress-making

Childcare

Singing

Housework

This training helps pupils acquire practical skills alongside academic knowledge.

Qualifications of Teachers

To become a primary school teacher, candidates must meet the following requirements:

Must be Bulgarian citizens.

Must have graduated from a pedagogical school.

Must be at least 17 years old.

Must be of good character and physically fit.

Must have passed the State examination for teachers.

Article 62 allows graduates of gymnasia or other secondary schools to compete for teaching positions if they meet the other requirements. This exception was necessary due to the shortage of trained pedagogical graduates, caused by the growth of schools and the retirement of older teachers.

State Examination

The State examination includes:

A written test, consisting of two themes: one on general pedagogy and the other on educational methods. Special attention is given to the clarity and style of the written work.

An oral examination, both theoretical and practical, in which candidates teach two lessons to pupils in a special pedagogical school division.

Candidates must pass the written test before taking the oral exam. This system ensures that teachers are well-prepared academically and practically, providing high-quality education to the children of Bulgaria.

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Fundamental Principles of Government

According to the Bulgarian Constitution, the government and administrative organisation of the Principality are based on several fundamental principles:

Separation of Powers – Public authorities are divided into legislative, executive, and judiciary branches to ensure a balanced government.

Equality of Citizens – All citizens enjoy equal civil and political rights, without distinction of class or wealth.

Inviolability – The person, residence, property, and private correspondence of every individual are protected by law.

Freedom and Liberty – Citizens have the right to freedom of conscience, freedom of the press, freedom of public meetings, and the liberty to form associations.

Universal Suffrage – Members of the National Assembly, as well as departmental and municipal councils, are elected by direct and secret universal suffrage.

Local Self-Government – Communities have the right to manage local affairs independently, within the limits of the law Istanbul Day Tour.

The Principal Public Authorities

The Principality of Bulgaria is a constitutional and hereditary monarchy with a system of national representation. The legislative and executive authorities exercise national sovereignty in the name of the people, according to the limits set by the Constitution.

Legislative Power

Legislative authority is shared between the Prince and the National Assembly, which act jointly to make laws.

Executive Power

The Prince holds the executive power and oversees the administration of the state. His main responsibilities include:

Administrative Prerogative – All administrative organs act in the Prince’s name and under his control. He appoints and dismisses ministers, who in turn manage civil and military officials.

Military Authority – The Prince is the supreme chief of the armed forces in peace, and commander-in-chief in war.

Representation of the Nation – He represents Bulgaria in international relations and during national ceremonies.

Treaties and Agreements – All treaties with foreign states are concluded in the name of the Prince and require the approval of the National Assembly.

The principles of the Bulgarian government reflect a balance between monarchy and democracy, ensuring the protection of citizens’ rights while maintaining a strong executive authority. Through the separation of powers, universal suffrage, and local self-government, the Constitution aimed to create a modern and stable political system in the newly independent Principality of Bulgaria.

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Agriculture and Crops

Major Crops

Bulgaria produces a variety of high-quality agricultural products. Tobacco of excellent quality is grown at the foot of the Rhodopes and in the Strouma valley. Cotton is mainly cultivated in the southeastern districts, while hemp and flax are abundant in the southwestern regions.

Other crops include aniseed, sesame, and poppies in the south and southwest, and colza in the north. Roses, especially in Kazanlik and Karlovo, are cultivated extensively for their oil. Since the introduction of the sugar industry, the cultivation of beetroot has expanded rapidly City Tours Istanbul.

Vegetables and salads grow in market gardens near towns and villages. Important fruit trees include hazel, walnut, almond, apple, pear, quince, plum, peach, and apricot. In southern Bulgaria, figs and pomegranates are also grown. The plains of Kustendil and Gabrovo are especially rich in fruit trees and provide valuable material for export.

Fauna

Wild Animals

Bulgaria’s wildlife reflects that of southern and central Europe. Because the population is still sparse and there are many uninhabited areas, wild animals have not disappeared. However, carnivorous animals and birds of prey still pose a threat to domestic animals and poultry.

Notable species include:

Bear (Ursus arctos) – lives in the mountain forests

Wolf (Canis lupus) – found throughout the country

Jackal – mainly in the Stara-Planina, though numbers are decreasing

Fox – widespread

Wild boar – common in forests and hills

Wild cat, polecat, and others

Game Animals

Hunting is important in Bulgaria, and several species of game are still present:

Stag (Cervus elaphus) – now mainly in large forests

Chamois (Capra rupicapra) – found on the steep rocks of the Rilo and Stara-Planina mountains

Roebuck (Cervus capreolus) – found in all mountain areas

Hare – widespread across plains and hills

Bulgaria’s natural wealth in crops, fruits, and wildlife shows the country’s diversity of agriculture and ecology, combining fertile plains with mountainous forests that support both human and animal life.

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The Bridge over the Barbyses

Location and Early Importance

The bridge crossed the Barbyses (modern Kiaht-haneh Sou), a small stream that flows into the Golden Horn in the Cosmidion district (modern Eyoub). When the scholar Gyllius visited Constantinople, the stone piers of an ancient bridge could still be seen in summer, when the water level was low. These remnants stood between the northern end of the city’s land walls and Aivan Serai, indicating the bridge’s strategic position.

This bridge was a key point of access to the city and served both military and civilian purposes. During the 627 siege, Slavonian allies of the Avars moored a flotilla of log-boats behind the bridge, waiting for a chance to enter the Golden Horn and attack the northern side of Constantinople.

Heraclius’ Triumphal Entry

The bridge also played a role in one of the most famous events of Byzantine history. After returning from the Persian War, Emperor Heraclius entered the city triumphantly, crossing the bridge over the Barbyses. His journey from the Palace of Hiereia on the Bay of Moda to the Golden Horn was unusually indirect. Although the shortest route would have been by boat across the Sea of Marmora to the Golden Gate, Heraclius had an extreme fear of water Jeep Safari Bulgaria.

To overcome this, his advisers built a temporary bridge of boats across the Bosporus, covering the sides with branches and foliage so the emperor would not see the water. Once safely on the European shore, Heraclius avoided the water again and took an inland route through the valley at the head of the Golden Horn, finally crossing the Barbyses to reach the city.

Role in the Crusades

The bridge continued to be important in later centuries. In 1096, Crusaders under Godfrey de Bouillon camped near it. During the Second Crusade in 1147, Emperor Conrad crossed the bridge to attack the suburbs on the northern side of the harbor.

During the Fourth Crusade in 1203, the army marched from Galata to Constantinople. The Greeks had cut down the bridge, so the Crusaders repaired it, allowing their troops to cross and encamp near the Palace of Blachernae. As Villehardouin describes, the soldiers worked day and night to reconstruct the bridge, enabling the army to move in battle formation toward the city.

Later Military Use

Even in the 14th century, the bridge remained strategically significant. In 1328 and 1345, John Cantacuzene camped his troops in the meadows beside the bridge while negotiating with city defenders at the Gate of Gyrolimne, showing its continued role in controlling access to the city.

The bridge over the Barbyses connected key districts, allowed safe entry into the city, and was repeatedly used in sieges and military campaigns. From the triumph of Heraclius to the Crusades and civil wars of the 14th century, it remained a vital link between the northern suburbs and the heart of Constantinople.

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Religious Buildings in Sarajevo

Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia, is home to several impressive religious buildings. The Roman Catholic Church is a beautiful Gothic-style structure with two tall spires. It was built by the Austrian government, with financial help from Catholics in Vienna and other Austrian cities.

The Orthodox Greek Church is also a large and elegant building, and many of Sarajevo’s wealthy citizens belong to the Orthodox faith. There is also a notable Jewish synagogue, which stands out as an important place of worship. However, there is no Protestant church in the city.

Religious Oppression Under Turkish Rule

During the time of Turkish rule, only Muslims were allowed to worship in public. Other religions, such as Christianity and Judaism, were forced to worship in private. Christians were known as “rayahs”, a word that means “ransomed”. This term referred to non-Muslims who were allowed to live only because they paid taxes or “tribute.” The idea was that they had earned death for not believing in Islam, but were allowed to live by paying money.

Westerners today often do not realize the bravery of the Christian peasants in Bosnia, Bulgaria, Macedonia, and other parts of the Balkans. These people lived under constant fear. In those days, Muslims were taught that killing a Christian was not a crime. Yet, many Christians stayed strong in their faith, even though they could have easily gained safety, wealth, and higher status by converting to Islam. The same kind of bravery was shown by the Jews, who also refused to give up their religion.

The Jews of Sarajevo History and Present

Despite years of persecution, the Jewish population in Bosnia actually grew. Many Jews moved to Bosnia from Romania, where they were treated even worse by Christians than they were by the Turks in Bosnia Private Sofia Tour.

After the Austrians took over, many Jewish merchants came to Bosnia for business opportunities. However, the older Jewish families, who had lived in Bosnia for centuries, refused to associate with these newcomers.

These older families are descendants of Jews expelled from Spain in 1574. The Sultan of Turkey allowed them to settle in Bosnia and Serbia. Today, there are about 7,000 Jews in Bosnia, and 3,000 live in Sarajevo. They still speak Spanish among themselves and maintain many of their old customs.

One fascinating place is their cemetery on Mount Trebevic, near Sarajevo. The tombstones are rough, uncut stones, a tradition that began when the community was too poor to afford carved stones.

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Russia's Influence on Prince Ferdinand

After Stambouloff’s dismissal, Russia took advantage of the situation to support Prince Ferdinand’s independence. Seven years after the initial boycott, Czar Nicholas of Russia officially recognized Ferdinand as Bulgaria’s ruler. A Russian diplomat was sent to Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, and gradually began to influence Ferdinand and gain control over the government. By this time, Ferdinand’s authority was nearly absolute, and he could have been considered the governor of a Russian province.

The Fall of Ferdinand’s Reputation

While Ferdinand finally achieved the recognition from Russia that he had always desired, he lost the respect of Europe and the trust of other world powers because of certain events that took place in Sofia. In July 1895, just a little over a year after Stambouloff’s retirement, the former prime minister was assassinated. Stambouloff was attacked while walking home from his club, and the crime was shocking to the people of Bulgaria Ephesus Daily Tour.

The Assassination of Stambouloff

Three men were involved in the murder, and one of the assassins was easily identified by Stambouloff, his friend, and even a servant who had been following them. The leader of the group was a man named Michael Stavreff, also known as Michael Malieu. Stavreff had ties to the Russian party in Sofia and had previously worked on secret missions for the Russian minister.

From the beginning, many of Stambouloff’s friends and the anti-Russian group in Bulgaria believed that Stavreff had been hired to kill Stambouloff. The fact that he was never arrested or punished only fueled the belief that the government supported the crime. The lack of action from Prince Ferdinand led to widespread criticism, and many people in Europe viewed his response as an indication of his sympathy for the killers.

Stavreff’s Freedom and Public Notoriety

After the murder, Stavreff continued to live freely in Sofia. He was often seen around the city, especially in cafes, and was known as the man who had assassinated Stambouloff. Despite never admitting to the crime, Stavreff seemed to take pride in his notoriety. He was well-known and frequently pointed out to visitors as the murderer.

People in Sofia were curious about how Stavreff earned his living, and it was widely believed that he was receiving money from the government or from someone in power. This mystery added to his reputation as a figure with connections to influential people, and it only deepened the suspicions about the government’s role in the crime.

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Where Did the Wall Reach the Sea

The exact spot where the city wall met the Sea of Marmora, directly across from Chrysopolis (modern-day Üsküdar), is not clearly stated in ancient sources. However, it was likely very close to the present-day Seraglio Lighthouse. This area offers the easiest downward path from the Temple of Aphrodite to the shore, because of a natural break in the steep slope of the First Hill.

This suggests that the wall built by Emperor Septimius Severus mostly followed the same path as the older wall that he had destroyed. This idea is supported by comparing the landscape outside the wall built by Severus—the valley of the Grand Bazaar—with the description of the land beyond the earlier fortifications. That area was described as smooth and sloping gradually to the water, just like the current landscape.

A Landscape Suited for Defense

An ancient writer described the ground like this:

“The first space beyond the city walls was a smooth plain, gently sloping down to the sea, keeping the city from being an island.”

This description matches the valley of the Grand Bazaar, showing that the wall Severus rebuilt likely stood on the same line as the earlier one.

Inside Byzantium After Severus’ Restoration

After Severus restored Byzantium, the city began to grow and change. It became more structured and featured many new public buildings. These included places for entertainment, bathing, and gathering.

One of the most important constructions was the Hippodrome, a massive stadium for chariot races and public events. Although Severus began building it, he had to leave for the West before finishing the project. Later, Constantine the Great would complete and expand it.

The Tetrastoon and the Baths of Zeuxippus

Between the northern end of the Hippodrome and the future location of Hagia Sophia was an open square called the Tetrastoon. This was a public plaza, surrounded on all four sides by covered walkways (porticoes). On the southern edge of the Tetrastoon stood the Thermae of Zeuxippus, or the Baths of Zeuxippus, one of the most famous bathing complexes in the city.

These public places became the heart of the restored city, where people gathered to socialize, relax, and enjoy the cultural life of Byzantium Sofia Sightseeing.

In conclusion, Severus’ wall closely followed the path of the earlier fortifications, and the geography supports this. After rebuilding the city, Severus added important public buildings like the Hippodrome and the Baths of Zeuxippus, laying the groundwork for what would soon become Constantinople, one of the greatest cities in history.

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Luxury Hotels in Sofia

Sofia has no shortage of top-tier accommodation. Among the best are internationally recognized names like Hilton and Sheraton, which offer outstanding service, elegant decor, and central locations. Here’s a closer look at two of the city’s finest five-star hotels.

Hilton Sofia

Location: D-2, Blvd. Bulgaria 1 Contact: Tel. [phone]

The Hilton Sofia is a popular choice, especially for business travelers. It has a convenient central location and offers the high-quality service expected from the Hilton brand.

Interior Design: Rooms are decorated in calm tones of blue, yellow, and green, creating a peaceful atmosphere.

Bathrooms: Each room includes both a bathtub and a shower cabin—great for relaxing after a long day.

Facilities: Guests can enjoy free access to the indoor pool and gym.

Extras: All rooms come with tea and coffee-making facilities, a nice touch for those who like their morning brew Bulgaria Vacations.

Amenities Available:

Air conditioning

Credit cards accepted

Fitness center

Wi-Fi and internet

Guarded parking

Sauna

Swimming pool

Animal friendly

Facilities for disabled guests

Child friendly

Non-smoking rooms

Restaurant

Nearest metro station nearby

Sheraton Sofia Hotel Balkan

Location: B-3, Sveta Nedelya Square 5 Contact: Tel. [phone]

The Sheraton Sofia Hotel Balkan is one of the oldest luxury hotels in the city. Part of the prestigious Luxury Collection (by Marriott), it is located in the very heart of Sofia.

Architecture: The building is a fine example of 1950s architecture, with grand staircases, spacious corridors, and crystal chandeliers.

Room Styles

Classic rooms feature modern interiors with blue and orange themes and elegant bathrooms.

Executive rooms include antique-style furniture, flat-screen TVs, and tea/coffee facilities.

Public Areas: The hotel has a stylish lobby and a café restaurant that serves gourmet meals.

Amenities Available:

Air conditioning

Credit cards accepted

Non-smoking rooms

Internet and Wi-Fi

Fitness facilities

Swimming pool

Guarded parking

On-site restaurant

Accessible facilities

Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, both the Hilton Sofia and Sheraton Hotel Balkan provide luxurious comfort and top-quality service. Their central locations also make it easy to explore the capital’s cultural landmarks, restaurants, and nightlife.

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Attacks on Schools

The Carnegie Commission describes how the Greek and Serbian armies took control of Bulgarian schools. These schools were important centers of Bulgarian culture and education. According to the report:

When the Greek and Serbian forces arrived in a town, their first action was to close the schools and use them as places for the soldiers to stay.

The teachers were gathered together and told that if they didn’t agree to teach in Greek or Serbian, they would no longer be needed. Those who refused to teach in those languages and continued to declare themselves as Bulgarians faced persecution.

The severity of the persecution varied, but in many cases, if the teachers refused to cooperate, they were either allowed to leave for Bulgaria or sent to prison in Salonica or Uskub Turkey Sightseeing.

Persecution of Priests and Bishops

Next, the priests and bishops were targeted. The Carnegie Commission explains:

The priests were first pressured to change the language used in their church services. They were also forced to accept Serbian or Greek religious authorities.

The priests were ordered to mention the names of these new authorities in the church liturgy.

If a priest resisted, their Exarchate (the Bulgarian Church) was taken away from them and given to the Greek Patriarchate. They were also forbidden from communicating with their congregation. Any small act of disobedience led to accusations of political propaganda or treason.

Persecution of Bishops

The bishops faced even harsher treatment. For example:

Bishop Neophyte of Keles and Bishop Cosmas of Debra were both expelled.

Archimandrite Methodius, the bishop of Uskub, faced even worse treatment. According to the Carnegie Commission:

Methodius was forced out of his house and locked in a room. He was beaten by four soldiers until he lost consciousness.

After being thrown into the street, he managed to escape and find shelter in a nearby house owned by a Frenchman. This man helped him by informing the French Consul in Uskub about what happened.

Under the Consul’s protection, Methodius left for Salonica, where he was examined by foreign doctors. The doctors confirmed his story and found his injuries were serious.

This persecution of religious leaders and educators was part of a wider effort to suppress Bulgarian identity in the territories controlled by Serbia and Greece after the war. The Carnegie Commission’s report highlights the harsh treatment of the Bulgarian people and the efforts to erase their cultural and religious heritage.

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The Lovech Labour Camp The Camp of Death

The Establishment and Conditions at Lovech Labour Camp

The Lovech Labour Camp, often referred to as “The Camp of Death,” was established in 1959 in Bulgaria. It became notorious for its brutal conditions. The first group of 166 prisoners was transferred from the Belene Labour Camp to Lovech, where they were forced to work at a nearby stone quarry. The prisoners, including intellectuals and artists, were subjected to inhumane working conditions. They were forced to meet impossible labour quotas, and many were beaten to death in sadistic ways. Others died from torture, exhaustion, or systematic thrashing.

The camp became infamous for its harsh and cruel treatment of prisoners. The prisoners’ suffering was so intense that Lovech earned its reputation as a “death camp.” It was not just a place of forced labour, but a place where people faced constant fear of brutality and death Istanbul Day Trips.

The Role of General Mircho Spassov

In 1990, after the fall of the communist regime, General Mircho Spassov, who was once involved in the creation of the Lovech Labour Camp, confessed to the Prosecutor in the Labour Camps’ Case No. 4. He stated:

“We, members of the Politburo of the Central Committee and our Ministry, vigorously copied the Soviet comrades’ methods and drew from their experience. In 1959, I was the youngest Deputy Minister of the Ministry of the Interior and was assigned to set up the camp in Lovech.”

His admission showed that the Lovech Labour Camp was not an isolated incident but part of a larger system of repression inspired by the Soviet regime.

The Skravena Labour Camp

In the summer of 1961, a group of 300 women from the Lovech Labour Camp were transferred to another camp in Skravena, a town in the Botevgrad region. The women were subjected to the same harsh conditions as the men in Lovech. This move further illustrated the widespread nature of Bulgaria’s forced labour system during the communist era.

The Legacy of Political Prisoners in Communist Bulgaria

Alongside the labour camps, there were 22 jails across Bulgaria that also held political prisoners until the fall of the communist regime in 1989. These jails, much like the labour camps, were places of punishment for anyone who opposed the communist government.

Despite the suffering of these prisoners, no one was held accountable for the deaths, torture, and abuses that occurred in these camps. After the fall of the communist regime, those responsible for the camps were never punished.

The Case of Nadia Dunkin

One of the key witnesses of the labour camps’ atrocities was actress Nadia Dunkin, who had herself been a prisoner in one of the camps. Just before she was scheduled to testify in court about the horrors she had witnessed, she was found dead in her home. Her death remained suspicious, and the case was eventually closed in 2002 due to limitations.

Statistics of Prisoners Sentenced for Counter-Revolutionary Activities By July 1956, there were thousands of people imprisoned for counter-revolutionary activities. The following table shows the breakdown of prisoners by social status:

Social Status Number of People % of All Sentenced Poor and middle-class peasants 1,168 42.58% Tradesmen 370 13.49% Workers 357 13.01% State employees 349 12.72% Freelancers 175 6.38% Kulaks 120 3.37% Members of Collective Farms 100 3.65% Students 67 2.44% Unemployed 37 1.35% Total 2,743 100% These statistics show the widespread nature of political repression and the diverse social backgrounds of those who were imprisoned for their opposition to the government.

Political Prisoners with the Longest Sentences Some of the political prisoners who served the longest sentences include:

Vasil Uzunov – 28 years

Ilija Minev – 27 years

Vasil Zlatarov – 20 years

These individuals were among the many who endured harsh treatment in the prisons and labour camps.

The Lovech Labour Camp and the broader system of political repression in communist Bulgaria were part of a widespread effort by the regime to silence and punish anyone who opposed its rule. The brutality faced by prisoners in these camps, including forced labour, torture, and execution, is a dark chapter in Bulgaria’s history. Unfortunately, many of those responsible for these crimes were never held accountable. The legacy of these camps continues to haunt the memories of the survivors and their families.

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The Role of Individual Women in Changing Traditions

It’s important to remember the extraordinary women whose lives and work helped change traditional views and prejudices about women’s roles and abilities. While they weren’t necessarily part of the feminist movement, women like Anastasia Golovina and Fani Popova-Mutafova made significant contributions to society. Their professional achievements served as examples and inspirations for other women pursuing careers in their fields.

Bulgarian Women’s Movement and its International Connections

The women’s movement in Bulgaria was part of the larger international women’s movement. It drew inspiration, strategies, and ideas from international feminist events and gatherings. These international connections helped build the first women’s networks and created a sense of unity among women worldwide. Bulgarian women, like others, shared the vision of the “new woman” and embraced the ideas of feminism Adventure Balkan Tours.

The Importance of Learning from Feminist History

As Karen Offen suggests, understanding the history of feminism can help challenge existing prejudices and misconceptions about women’s rights. In regions like Eastern Europe, where the history of feminism is often overlooked or ignored, learning about the past can help correct misunderstandings and promote a more positive view of women’s achievements. Knowing this history can also foster greater tolerance and encourage better collaboration between women’s movements in different countries today.

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The Ducks of Elbasan

In most Turkish towns, dogs clean the streets by eating scraps of food. But in Elbasan, ducks do the job. There are hundreds, even thousands, of ducks wandering around the streets. They don’t belong to anyone but eat the trash that is thrown into the alleyways. This is because drainage systems are expensive, and the Albanians manage without them. The smells in the Eastern bazaars, which are often described as exotic, are not as charming in the hot weather as people might think.

The shops in the bazaar don’t have windows; instead, the shops are just open spaces with no glass. The shop owners sit in the middle, hammering copper pots or sharpening daggers. Every man carries a dagger—usually two. The women wear black cloaks and keep their heads down. If a man dares to look at one of these women, her family will kill him. If she looks back with a soft gaze, both of them will be killed. I didn’t try this myself, but I was told that Elbasan is the most dangerous place in Europe to try flirting Istanbul Tour Guide.

The Silk of Elbasan

But the people of Elbasan don’t just quarrel. Some of the finest silk in Europe is made here. The fields around the town are full of mulberry trees, where silkworms are raised. The silk isn’t produced in big factories. Instead, the women in the homes weave the silk by hand. The weaving is done by passing the shuttle from one hand to the other. The silk isn’t as tightly woven as the silk made by modern machines in France, and it’s usually no wider than 36 inches.

But Albanian silk has a special quality and feel that you can’t find in more modern silks. I don’t know how much it would sell for in a European market, but in Elbasan, I bought the finest silk for about two shillings a yard, and I suspect I paid twice as much as an Albanian would have paid. The trade in silk with other countries is broken up into many steps. A merchant might take a load of silk to sell in Monastir or Durazzo. After a series of traders make their profit—first in Monastir, then Trieste, then Vienna—the price of the silk increases greatly. In the end, a lady who wants a dress made from Albanian silk will pay a lot more than I did in Elbasan.

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The Consulate’s Modest Setting

The Consulate is a dull and gloomy building, probably located on a narrow street filled with strange smells and the loud calls of street vendors. Above the door is a large, yellowish, cheap enamel sign showing the royal arms. It looks worn out and is clearly mass-produced. If there’s a garden, a flagpole stands with ropes that slap the side of the building. If there is no garden, the flagpole is attached to a small balcony above the door. On the King’s birthday and every Sunday, a wrinkled Union Jack flag is hung to flap in the wind.

The Bare Entrance Hall

The entrance hall is empty and bare. The sound of heavy boots on the wooden floor echoes through the empty space, making it sound hollow. The walls are painted with a rough blue color and are undecorated, except for a notice about registering the birth of British citizens’ children at the Consulate for a two-shilling fee. Through a partially open door, you can see a small, sad room with a bed in the corner, which is where the kavass (messenger) sleeps. Another door leads to the “chancery,” the office area of the Consulate. Inside, there is a cheap table with old pens, a worn-out blotting pad, a cupboard, and an iron safe for storing papers. There is also a pile of dusty London, Paris, and Constantinople newspapers in one corner and a map of the Balkan Peninsula on the wall. Here, you will find the dragoman, a sharp-witted Armenian wearing a fez and European clothes. He learned English at Robert College in Istanbul and works for the British Consulate in exchange for the protection of living under the British flag.

The Vice-Consul’s Room

Then there is the Vice-Consul’s own room. Full Consuls and Consuls-General, especially if they have families, try to make their homes abroad feel like an English home. But the young Vice-Consul, usually a bachelor with only a few years in the Levant Service, lives simply. His duties are to go where he is needed, sometimes for just a couple of months or up to two years. His needs are basic, and he does not have many belongings to move around from one place to another in Turkey.

Future Improvements for the Consulate

In the future, if the British government allows more funding, the Consulate may be better furnished. The home government might spend around £100 to provide basic items like carpets, chairs, tables, pots, pans, an iron bed, a wardrobe, and a bath.

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The Monastery of the Transfiguration

A Peaceful Welcome

For a moment, I forgot I was at a monastery. If young women in short skirts and long hair had appeared, singing and dancing, I would have believed it was some kind of celebration. But instead, a kind monk in a long robe came forward and greeted me with a handshake.

“Come and rest,” he said.

We went into a quiet, shady balcony that overlooked the hills below. On one side, there was a wide, dry plain. It was cool, with a light breeze, and we watched eagles soaring in the wind Bulgarian Coast.

A Walk Around the Monastery

I took a walk around the monastery. The monks were proud of the vines that grew next to their rooms, and they were especially proud of the wine they made from them. The church was small and white, with frescoes of saints. The saints were probably good people, but their bodies in the pictures were a little strange.

The refectory, where the monks ate, was a long, low room. They ate vegetables in silence, while one monk read aloud a religious text. My host, the kind monk, had pictures of dead friends on the wall in his room. These were photos of people after they had passed away, posed on tables with their relatives standing around them—much like wedding photos, but sadder.

Over the Shipka Pass

The Battle of 1877

In the Shipka Pass, in the first Balkan mountain range, the fiercest fighting took place between the Turks and the Russians in 1877. The pass is a narrow road through black rocks, surrounded by wild and wooded land. If you look closely, you can still find old, overgrown trenches where soldiers once fired at each other. On the slopes of the mountains, there are mounds of earth, like giant molehills—these are the graves of soldiers.

There is one cemetery in the area, but it is in poor condition. The wall around it is broken, and many of the crosses are crooked or fallen. The graves are covered with tall grass, and no flowers grow there. People cried when the officers were buried, but now they are forgotten.

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The Bulgarian Independent Human Rights Association

The Appeal and Declaration

The authors of the Appeal wrote and signed a Declaration to be added to the Memorandum of Dissidents from four Eastern European countries. This was done to commemorate the anniversary of the Hungarian uprising and to acknowledge the events in Berlin, Prague, and Poland. The Declaration was signed by Iliya Minev, Eduard Genov, Grigor Simov, Tseko Krustev, Stefan Savovski, and Bozhidar Statev.

Formation of the Association

On 16 January 1988, these six individuals founded the Bulgarian Independent Human Rights Association. The main goal of the Association is to defend human rights and freedoms that have been severely violated by the communist regime in Bulgaria for over forty years. The group aimed to raise awareness about human rights issues and push for reforms.

Historical Context

The events that inspired the Declaration include the Hungarian uprising of 1956, the Prague Spring of 1968, and the rise of Solidarity in Poland in the early 1980s. Each of these events represented a struggle for freedom against oppressive regimes. The authors recognized that their fight for human rights was part of a larger movement across Eastern Europe Private Tours Bulgaria Varna.

Objectives of the Association

The Bulgarian Independent Human Rights Association sought to bring attention to the many human rights violations occurring in Bulgaria. The founders aimed to create a platform where citizens could express their grievances and seek justice. They wanted to provide a voice for those who had suffered under the communist regime and promote the idea that every person has the right to basic freedoms.

Challenges Ahead

The founding members of the Association faced significant risks. The communist government was known for its harsh treatment of dissidents, including surveillance, imprisonment, and other forms of repression. Despite these dangers, the founders were determined to advocate for change and encourage others to join their cause.

Impact on Society

The establishment of the Bulgarian Independent Human Rights Association marked a significant step in the fight for freedom and human rights in Bulgaria. The group’s efforts inspired many citizens to become more aware of their rights and to stand up against injustices. It was an important moment in the history of Bulgaria, showing that a desire for change was growing among the people.

The actions of Iliya Minev, Eduard Genov, Grigor Simov, Tseko Krustev, Stefan Savovski, and Bozhidar Statev created a foundation for human rights advocacy in Bulgaria. By forming the Bulgarian Independent Human Rights Association, they joined a larger movement across Eastern Europe aimed at challenging oppressive regimes and promoting individual freedoms. Their courage and commitment to human rights continue to inspire future generations in the ongoing fight for justice and equality.

[lalkabulgaria]

The Bulgarian Independent Human Rights Association

The Appeal and Declaration

The authors of the Appeal wrote and signed a Declaration to be added to the Memorandum of Dissidents from four Eastern European countries. This was done to commemorate the anniversary of the Hungarian uprising and to acknowledge the events in Berlin, Prague, and Poland. The Declaration was signed by Iliya Minev, Eduard Genov, Grigor Simov, Tseko Krustev, Stefan Savovski, and Bozhidar Statev.

Formation of the Association

On 16 January 1988, these six individuals founded the Bulgarian Independent Human Rights Association. The main goal of the Association is to defend human rights and freedoms that have been severely violated by the communist regime in Bulgaria for over forty years. The group aimed to raise awareness about human rights issues and push for reforms.

Historical Context

The events that inspired the Declaration include the Hungarian uprising of 1956, the Prague Spring of 1968, and the rise of Solidarity in Poland in the early 1980s. Each of these events represented a struggle for freedom against oppressive regimes. The authors recognized that their fight for human rights was part of a larger movement across Eastern Europe Private Tours Bulgaria Varna.

Objectives of the Association

The Bulgarian Independent Human Rights Association sought to bring attention to the many human rights violations occurring in Bulgaria. The founders aimed to create a platform where citizens could express their grievances and seek justice. They wanted to provide a voice for those who had suffered under the communist regime and promote the idea that every person has the right to basic freedoms.

Challenges Ahead

The founding members of the Association faced significant risks. The communist government was known for its harsh treatment of dissidents, including surveillance, imprisonment, and other forms of repression. Despite these dangers, the founders were determined to advocate for change and encourage others to join their cause.

Impact on Society

The establishment of the Bulgarian Independent Human Rights Association marked a significant step in the fight for freedom and human rights in Bulgaria. The group’s efforts inspired many citizens to become more aware of their rights and to stand up against injustices. It was an important moment in the history of Bulgaria, showing that a desire for change was growing among the people.

The actions of Iliya Minev, Eduard Genov, Grigor Simov, Tseko Krustev, Stefan Savovski, and Bozhidar Statev created a foundation for human rights advocacy in Bulgaria. By forming the Bulgarian Independent Human Rights Association, they joined a larger movement across Eastern Europe aimed at challenging oppressive regimes and promoting individual freedoms. Their courage and commitment to human rights continue to inspire future generations in the ongoing fight for justice and equality.

[lalkabulgaria]

The Widespread Suppression of Democratic Values in Bulgaria

A Foreign Perspective on Bulgaria’s Democratic Decline

On March 19, 1945, the Swiss newspaper Neue Zürcher Zeitung published a critical commentary on the political situation in Bulgaria. The article highlighted the erosion of democratic values in the country, noting that the right to life seemed to be reserved only for members and supporters of the Fatherland Front coalition. This coalition included communists, left-wing agrarians, socialists, and members of the “Zveno” party, a group of military officers. According to the commentary, these four groups held a monopoly on political power, effectively silencing any form of dissent or opposition in Bulgaria.

The Forced Deportation of Germans from Bulgaria

As part of the Armistice agreement signed by the Bulgarian government, Article 1b imposed an obligation on Bulgaria to deport all German nationals and those from Germany’s allies who were living in the country. The Fatherland Front government was responsible for carrying out these deportations. However, the Soviet Command, which exerted significant influence over Bulgaria at the time, went a step further. They insisted that even Bulgarian citizens of German descent, including those married to Bulgarians, be deported, despite the fact that the Bulgarian Constitution did not permit such actions Istanbul Daily Tour.

This stance by the Soviet Command was in stark contrast to Bulgaria’s actions just two years earlier. In 1943, Bulgaria had successfully saved all its Jewish citizens from being deported to German concentration camps, citing constitutional protections similar to those being ignored in the case of the Germans.

Soviet Orders for Deportation

On December 28, 1944, Soviet Colonel General Sergey Biryuzov issued an order to the Bulgarian Minister for Foreign Affairs. The order mandated the mobilization and deportation of all Germans capable of work, including citizens of Germany, Hungary, Czechoslovakia, Yugoslavia, Romania, and Bulgaria who were currently residing in Bulgaria. Biryuzov’s letter detailed the logistics of the deportation, specifying that the Germans were to be gathered at deportation stations and subsequently transported to Rousse, a city in Bulgaria, by January 1, 1945.

Failure to comply with these orders would result in summary trials within 24 hours. Additionally, Biryuzov warned that any relatives or friends attempting to hide Germans would face severe repressive measures. He also demanded that the Bulgarian government issue a special notice to ensure that all military and civil authorities were fully committed to executing the deportation orders. Finally, Biryuzov required a personal copy of the Bulgarian government’s decision regarding the deportation, underscoring the Soviet Union’s control over Bulgarian domestic affairs during this period.

The events of late 1944 and early 1945 illustrate the extent to which Bulgaria’s sovereignty was compromised under Soviet influence. The erosion of democratic values, as noted by foreign observers, was compounded by the forced deportation of German nationals and Bulgarian citizens of German descent. These actions were carried out in direct violation of Bulgaria’s own constitutional principles, demonstrating the overwhelming power of the Soviet Union in shaping Bulgaria’s policies during this turbulent period. The deportation orders, enforced with ruthless efficiency, marked a dark chapter in Bulgaria’s history, reflecting the broader theme of repression and loss of freedom under communist rule.