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The 1891 Education Law

The first major attempt to organize the entire education system of Bulgaria was the law introduced in 1891 by Minister of Public Instruction Georges Jivkoff. This law was passed by the Sixth Ordinary National Assembly and repealed all previous educational laws and regulations. Remarkably, it remains in force to this day, forming the foundation of the Bulgarian school system.

The law confirmed that the Ministry of Public Instruction would have the supreme control and direction of all schools, as well as institutions aimed at the intellectual and moral development of the country. This centralization ensured that the education system would be uniform and well-coordinated Istanbul City Tour.

Organization of the Ministry

The Ministry of Public Instruction is staffed with professionals responsible for different areas of education:

Chief of Secondary, Special, and Higher Instruction

Chief of Elementary Instruction

Two general inspectors for secondary and special schools

Medical inspector

Six assistant chiefs

Accountant and two assistant accountants

This team ensures the administration, supervision, and financial management of the education system.

Types of Schools

According to the 1891 law, schools are divided into national and private schools:

National schools: Funded by the State, departments, districts, or parishes and teach in Bulgarian.

Private schools: Supported by religious communities, associations, or private individuals.

National schools are further divided into:

Primary schools

Secondary schools

Professional schools

High schools

Primary Education

Primary instruction is provided in primary schools and infant schools.

Infant schools prepare children for primary education.

Children aged 3–5 years join the lower divisions, and those aged 5–6 years join the higher division.

The curriculum focuses on games, songs, drawing, manual work, and simple arithmetic, combining play with early learning to prepare children for formal schooling.

The 1891 law laid the foundation of modern Bulgarian education, creating a clear structure for schools and centralizing control under the Ministry of Public Instruction. By dividing schools into national and private categories and organizing different levels of education, the law helped ensure that every child in Bulgaria could receive a well-structured and consistent education.

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The Person of the Prince

The Prince of Bulgaria holds a position that is sacred and inviolable. He carries the title of Royal Highness, and his person is fully protected under the Constitution. The law treats the Prince with the utmost respect, reflecting both the dignity of the Crown and the stability of the state.

Legislative Prerogative

Convocation of the National Assembly

The Prince has the power to convene the National Assembly. Every year, from October 15th to December 15th, he calls the Assembly for its ordinary session. He may also summon it for extraordinary sessions whenever urgent State matters require immediate attention Istanbul Day Tour.

The Prince opens the session either personally or through a delegate. During the throne speech, he presents a detailed statement on the general condition of the country and specifies the bills and proposals that the Government plans to submit to the Assembly for approval.

At the end of the session, the closure follows the same ceremonial formalities as the opening.

Prorogation and Dissolution

The Prince may prorogue the Assembly, but the prorogation cannot exceed two months and may occur only once per session. In exceptionally serious cases, when conflicts arise between the legislature and the Prince or Government, the Prince may dissolve the Assembly and call new elections, leaving the resolution of the conflict to the nation itself.

Legislative Authority of the Prince

The direct influence of the Crown over the legislative process is significant:

The Prince, through his ministers, can initiate bills and propositions.

All laws passed by the Assembly are promulgated in the name of the Prince and take effect only after publication in the Official Journal.

Royal approval of laws must be granted during the session in which they are passed.

Additionally, the Prince may issue regulations and take emergency measures with the force of law whenever the State faces immediate internal or external threats. This ensures that the executive power can act swiftly in times of crisis while remaining under constitutional limits.

The legislative prerogative of the Prince balances monarchical authority with parliamentary representation. While the Crown retains significant powers, especially in emergencies, the Constitution ensures that laws and governance involve the National Assembly, reflecting the principles of modern constitutional monarchy in Bulgaria.

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The Bulgars and Slavs

The Formation of the Bulgarian Nation

When the Slavs arrived in the Balkan Peninsula, they found other tribes living there. The Slavs had a stronger character, and they imposed their language and customs on the local populations. Later, the Bulgars, who came from the Volga region, also mixed with the Slavs. Over time, the Bulgars adopted the Slavic language and some of their customs.

However, the Bulgars gave their name to the new, mixed nation. Thanks to their energy, discipline, and organizational skills, they assumed political control. This led to the establishment of the Bulgarian kingdom, which quickly expanded its territory. The Bulgars were known for their warlike abilities, patriotism, and strong leadership City Tours Istanbul.

Bulgarian Power and Influence

Under their kings, the Bulgarians became a powerful military force. They threatened Constantinople, the capital of the Byzantine Empire, and even forced the Greek Emperor to seek friendship and pay tribute. The kingdom reached its greatest extent during the reign of King Kroum, who strengthened both the army and the state.

Introduction of Christianity

One of the most important events in Bulgarian history was the introduction of Christianity. This happened during the reign of King Boris I at the end of the 9th century. Boris became the first Christian king of Bulgaria, marking the start of Bulgaria’s transformation into a civilized and organized country.

Cultural and Literary Development

At the same time, the great apostles Cyril and Methodius created the Cyrillic alphabet, which would later be used by all Slavic peoples, including Russia. This invention laid the foundation for Bulgarian national culture. With the new script and Christian teachings, a literary movement began in Bulgaria, helping the country develop education, literature, and religious texts in its own language.

Through these events, Bulgaria became not only a military power but also a cultural and spiritual center in the Balkans, shaping the identity of the Bulgarian nation for centuries to come.

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The Postern of Kallinicus and Its Connection to the Xylo Porta

Location and Function

The Postern of Kallinicus was a small but important gate near the Church of Blachernae, just like the Xylo Porta. This postern served as a passageway connecting the Blachernae district to the Church of SS. Cosmas and Damianus in the Cosmidion area. It also provided access to the bridge at the head of the Golden Horn, making it a strategic point for both defense and travel.

The close similarity of location and function suggests that the Postern of Kallinicus may have been part of the same network of walls and gates as the Xylo Porta. The bridge that the road from the Xylo Porta led to was often called the Bridge of St. Kallinicus, named after a nearby church dedicated to the saint, further confirming the connection.

The Golden Horn Bridge

The earliest mention of a bridge across the Golden Horn comes from the Notitia, which records a wooden bridge, similar to the pontem sublicium of Rome. This bridge was located in the Fourteenth Region of Constantinople and served as a vital crossing for pedestrians and vehicles.

In 528, Justinian the Great replaced the wooden structure with a stone bridge. According to the Paschal Chronicle, the bridge allowed travelers “to pass from the opposite side to the all-happy city,” showing its importance in linking Constantinople’s districts Jeep Safari Bulgaria.

Names and Significance

Over time, the bridge became known by several names, reflecting its history and surroundings:

Bridge of Justinian: Named after the emperor who built it.

Bridge of St. Kallinicus: After a nearby church at its southern end.

Bridge of St. Panteleemon: After a church at its northern end.

Bridge of Camels: Likely because caravans of camels carrying charcoal and goods frequently crossed it.

Bridge of Blachernae: Named for the district in which it stood.

The bridge served not only as a practical crossing but also as a cultural and religious landmark, linking churches and districts, and facilitating trade and communication.

Uncertainty About Other Bridges

There is some uncertainty about whether this bridge is the same as the twelve-arched bridge near St. Mamas mentioned by some historical sources. The problem is that multiple churches dedicated to St. Mamas existed outside the city walls, and it is not always clear which one is being referenced. This makes it difficult to identify every historical record with absolute certainty.

The Postern of Kallinicus and the Golden Horn Bridge were key parts of Constantinople’s city structure. They connected the Blachernae district to other areas, provided access to important churches, and supported trade and travel. The variety of names for the bridge reflects its central role in both the city’s defense and daily life. Together with gates like the Xylo Porta, they show how Constantinople’s fortifications were closely tied to the city’s roads, religious sites, and commercial activity.

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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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The Search for a New King

Recognizing that the European public would not approve of an empty throne in Bulgaria, Stambouloff sent a group to find a suitable king. They approached several members of royal families but found it difficult to select a candidate who wouldn’t cause jealousy among the great European Powers.

The story goes that the delegation was returning to Bulgaria when they met someone they knew in a beer garden in Vienna. After learning their purpose, the man suggested, “That young officer sitting at the table is the one you need. He is Ferdinand of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha, grandson of Louis Philippe of France, and a cousin of every crowned head in Europe. He is a favorite of both the Emperor of Austria and the Emperor of Russia, and he’s also very wealthy.”

At that time, Ferdinand was an officer in the Austrian army, stationed in Vienna. The committee immediately accepted the suggestion, met with the Austrian prime minister the following morning, and contacted Stambouloff in Sofia by telegraph. Within 48 hours, they offered Ferdinand the throne of Bulgaria, even though he was only 23 years old Ephesus Daily Tour.

Ferdinand Becomes King

The selection of Ferdinand was approved by most European powers, except for Russia. Czar Alexander III had no personal objection to Ferdinand, but his policy was to isolate Bulgaria as long as Stambouloff and the Liberal party (who were in power) continued to oppose Russia.

The regents resigned, and Ferdinand became king of Bulgaria. He immediately appointed Stambouloff as prime minister, a position he held continuously until May 1894. During this period, Stambouloff controlled the government’s policy and had significant influence over the king.

For the first few years, Stambouloff and Ferdinand worked well together. Ferdinand followed his minister’s advice and played the role of a loyal supporter. However, as time went on, particularly after his marriage in 1893, Ferdinand began to grow restless. He wanted to gain recognition from Russia, which had ignored him up until then. This desire for recognition likely came from his new wife, who had her own ambitions.

Growing Tension Between Stambouloff and Ferdinand

Stambouloff could have remained in power if he had shown more tact with the young king and respected his wife’s influence. However, Stambouloff did not try to hide that he was the true power behind the throne, and when Ferdinand started to show signs of independence, Stambouloff took control even more tightly.

The Princess Marie Louise of Bourbon, the daughter of the Duke of Parma, whom Ferdinand married in 1893, played a major role in encouraging her husband’s pride and independence. Over time, she gained enough influence over Ferdinand to convince him to resist Stambouloff’s control.

Stambouloff’s relationship with King Ferdinand deteriorated as the king sought more independence, influenced by both his marriage and his desire for recognition from Russia. Stambouloff’s rigid approach and refusal to respect the king’s growing sense of self led to a clash that ultimately resulted in the end of Stambouloff’s long rule over Bulgaria.

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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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Top Hotels in Sofia – Where to Stay in Style

Sofia offers a wide range of hotel choices, from world-famous chains to boutique gems with personality. Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, these high-quality hotels offer comfort, style, and great service.

Holiday Inn Sofia

Location: H-8, Blvd. Aleksandar Malinov 111 Contact: Tel. [phone]

The Holiday Inn Sofia delivers dependable five-star quality. Located near the Mladost Business Park, it’s a favorite for business travelers, and only about 20 minutes by taxi from the city center.

Rooms: Equipped with flat-screen TVs, Wi-Fi, and bathrooms with both a bathtub and separate shower.

Dining: You can enjoy international food at the all-day Brasserie and InCanto restaurant Bulgaria Vacations.

Wellness: There’s a fully equipped gym and a 19-meter swimming pool for guests to relax or stay fit.

Events: With a wide range of conference facilities, it’s a top spot for business meetings.

Radisson SAS Grand Hotel

Location: B-4, Narodno Sabranie Square 4 Contact: Tel. [phone]

Located right across from the Bulgarian Parliament and the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the Radisson SAS offers luxury and a great view of Sofia’s historical center.

Style: The hotel offers elegant comfort—calm colors, comfortable mattresses, and classy marble bathrooms with bathtubs and showers.

Rooms: All rooms have electric kettles. Standard rooms are good, but Business Class rooms and Junior Suites on the north side come with amazing views.

Nearby: You’ll find bars and nightlife just steps away, including Flannagans Pub and London Casino.

Unique and Artistic Hotels If you’re looking for something with more character and local flair, these hotels are perfect for a stylish and cozy stay.

Hotel Anel

Location: B-2, Blvd. Todor Aleksandrov 14 Contact: Tel. [phone]

Hotel Anel is a modern hotel just outside the downtown area. What sets it apart is its rich collection of Bulgarian art—you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a contemporary gallery.

Rooms: Designed in bold blue and brown tones, comfortable and spacious.

Spa: A relaxing spa area with a café surrounded by water and accessible via a charming bridge.

Art’Otel

Location: C-2, ul. Gladston 44 Contact: Tel. [phone]

A collaboration between Bulgarian and Spanish designers, Art’Otel is set in a beautifully renovated 1930s apartment building. It’s located just off Vitosha Boulevard, the city’s main shopping and walking street.

Design: Features leather furniture, fireplaces, unique textures, and modern art.

Views: Some top-floor rooms offer fantastic views of the Sofia skyline.

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Serbia's Breach of the Treaty with Bulgaria

The Broken Treaty

Before the second war started, Serbia had already broken the treaty made with Bulgaria. This treaty had been agreed upon before the war with Turkey. Serbia broke the treaty both in spirit and in practice.

If Great Britain was right to declare war on Germany for breaking the Belgian neutrality treaty, then Bulgaria was even more justified in going to war with Serbia. This is because Bulgaria had already sacrificed 1,228 officers and 82,261 soldiers in the war against Turkey.

Serbia’s losses in the same war were 23,000, but there was no breakdown between officers and soldiers.

Greece’s losses during the war against Turkey were not given to the Carnegie Commission.

The Role of Russia and Austria

It is hard to understand why Russia allowed Bulgaria to be treated so unfairly, especially with the Treaty of Bucharest. This treaty was based on two broken treaties. The only explanation for Russia’s actions is its policy at that time, described by Russia’s minister in Belgrade, Monsieur Hartwegg: “Serbia must be strong Turkey Sightseeing.”

Russia’s policy seemed to involve weakening Bulgaria. This explains why Russia allowed the Treaty of London to be broken by Turkey as well.

As for Austria, it did not protest against the Treaty of Bucharest. This was because Austria did not want to offend Roumania and knew that Russia’s actions would upset Bulgaria. Serbia would also be weakened by its temporary control over Macedonia, as well as by the bitter hostility of the Bulgarian race.

The betrayal of Bulgaria by Serbia and the support of Russia and Austria for the Treaty of Bucharest all show how Bulgaria was treated unfairly. This made Bulgaria even more justified in going to war, as the country had already sacrificed so much for the cause.

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The Growing Resistance Movement in Bulgaria

The June Uprising in Berlin

In 1953, during the June Uprising in Berlin, Bulgarian State Security reports showed that the resistance movement in Bulgaria was becoming more organized. The uprising in Berlin, where workers protested against harsh conditions, sparked a wave of resistance across Eastern Europe, including in Bulgaria. By this time, the resistance was no longer just a few individuals but had evolved into group activities. Reports from the authorities indicated that 75% of all events classified as “hostile and counter-revolutionary” in Bulgaria were the work of groups, while only 25% involved individual actions Istanbul Day Trips.

Workers’ Resistance in Bulgaria

One of the most significant instances of resistance came from workers. In the 1940s, in Plovdiv, the cigarette-making factory became a hotbed of resistance activities. The factory’s workers took part in various forms of protest, including strikes and clandestine actions against the regime. The events in Berlin and other parts of Eastern Europe helped inspire the workers in Bulgaria to take a more active stance against the communist government.

The factory in Plovdiv, like other industries in Bulgaria, had become a symbol of state control. The workers’ dissatisfaction with poor working conditions and low wages led to increased tensions, which eventually boiled over into organized resistance. Many of the resistance activities in the factory were coordinated through underground networks, and workers used every opportunity to communicate their dissatisfaction, even in the face of constant surveillance.

The Role of the Gorjani Movement

The Gorjani were an important part of the Bulgarian resistance movement. One of their key activities was the distribution of leaflets that condemned the communist regime. In the summer of 1953, they issued a leaflet about the events in Berlin, calling the demonstrations there “another expression of the struggle of mankind against tyranny.” The leaflet spread throughout Bulgaria, fueling anti-communist sentiment. It also highlighted the growing spirit of resistance against communist oppression in East Germany and beyond.

These leaflets emphasized that the people of East Germany were rising against the “People’s Democratic Republic,” showing that resistance was alive and growing in Eastern Europe. This movement was not just about economic hardships but also about political freedom and the desire to live under a government that respected human rights.

Crossing the Border A Dangerous Escape

For many Bulgarians, one of the most dangerous forms of resistance was trying to cross the border into the free world. The Bulgarian borders were heavily guarded, and the communist regime made it clear that anyone trying to escape would face severe punishment. Those who managed to cross were labeled as “traitors of the motherland” and sentenced without trial. Their families would suffer severe consequences, including social and professional restrictions.

On 28 August 1952, the Presidium of the National Assembly passed a decree, Decree No. 359, which allowed border guards to shoot anyone attempting to cross the border. As a result, many tried to escape, only to lose their lives in the process. The bodies of those who died attempting to flee were buried in unmarked graves, as the regime insisted that “enemies of the people” had no right to a proper burial.

In the early years of the communist regime, many opposition members were executed under the pretext of attempting to flee the country illegally. The Southern and Western Bulgarian borders became marked by anonymous graves, representing the tragic end of many lives lost in their desperate fight for freedom.

The years following the rise of the communist regime in Bulgaria were marked by increasing resistance, both organized and individual. The workers’ protests in Plovdiv, the actions of groups like the Gorjani, and the dangerous attempts to escape across the border were all parts of the larger struggle for freedom. Despite the harsh repression and brutal punishments, the spirit of resistance remained strong, inspiring future generations to continue fighting for their rights and freedom.

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Bulgarian Women's Movements and International Connections

The history of women’s movements in pre-communist Bulgaria follows patterns seen in many other countries. It shows that in “liberal democracy,” the social contract, or agreement about rights and responsibilities, was mostly made between men. This meant that modernity and the ideas of citizenship and civil society were often shaped by men’s experiences. As a result, women’s demands for equal rights and their actions were very similar worldwide, and they shared common goals with international women’s organizations.

Bulgarian Women in International Movements

Bulgarian activists participated in many international women’s congresses. While it’s not possible to mention every event, one is especially important for the Bulgarian women’s movement: the Congress of the International Alliance of Women for Suffrage and Equal Citizenship (IAWSEC), held in Istanbul from April 18-25, 1935. This congress was seen as significant because it was held in the east, symbolizing a growing connection between women’s movements in both the West and the East Adventure Balkan Tours.

Recognition for Dimitrana Ivanova

At the congress, Dimitrana Ivanova from the Bulgarian Women’s Union was elected to the Board of the IAWSEC. This was a major recognition for Bulgaria’s women’s movement. Ivanova had been nominated by Mrs. Theodoropoulou, the chairwoman of the Greek League for Women’s Rights, and a member of the IAWSEC board. This election helped the Bulgarian Women’s Union stay connected with the IAWSEC, and they were able to align their efforts with the international women’s movement on issues like political and economic equality, equal morality, and legal gender equality.

Dimitrana Ivanova’s Contributions and Achievements

In 1935 and 1937, Ivanova attended meetings of the IAWSEC Board in Amsterdam and Zurich. At the Amsterdam meeting, the Board decided to send Ivanova to two Balkan congresses about protecting children, held in Athens and Belgrade.

At the Zurich meeting, Ivanova proudly reported that Bulgarian women had won partial voting rights in January 1937. She highlighted that Bulgaria had granted women the vote before France, Yugoslavia, Quebec (Canada), and Switzerland. Ivanova was re-elected to the Board at the Copenhagen Congress of the IAWSEC in 1939. She was also elected president of the International Commission for the Protection of Motherhood, a part of the IAWSEC.

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Clan Feuds and the Fragile Truce

A few years ago, the powerful Beys of Albania came together in Elbasan and made a truce to stop their ongoing clan feuds. They agreed that members of rival clans should not be killed on sight, and for a while, this rule worked. However, you cannot change the way an Albanian behaves just by making an agreement. The truce has since ended, and once again, guerrilla warfare is the norm.

Isolated Valleys and Different Customs

The valleys of Albania are so isolated and disconnected, not just from the outside world but from each other, that in just half a day’s ride, you can notice different styles of clothing. For example, in one valley, the men wore tight, thick felt caps that looked like white smoking caps. In another valley, the men wore tight-fitting linen skull caps. Further on, you could find men with black felt caps Istanbul Tour Guide.

Constant Feuds Between Clans

The Albanian clans are always in conflict, and if they could unite, they could push the Turks out of Albania in one year. However, the feuds don’t just happen between different clans; they even occur within the same clan. Many Albanians don’t die from diseases, but from disagreements.

The Vendetta A Never-Ending Cycle of Revenge

When an Albanian kills someone, they must flee to the mountains because the dead person’s family will hunt them down to get revenge. Sometimes, the person seeking revenge gets killed too. Then, the family of the person who was killed will start a war with the family of the murderer. This is how a vendetta begins, and it can last for years. The fighting doesn’t always happen face-to-face. Often, revenge is carried out with a bullet from behind a rock or a stab in the back during the night.

Murder as a Part of Life

Murder is so common in Albania that it is not seen as something unusual. The Albanians accept it as part of life. They don’t rely on courts or laws to settle disagreements. Their way of thinking is simple and primitive: if someone offends you, you take action by killing them.

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Making Himself Comfortable

The young Englishman, without trying too hard, makes himself comfortable in his new life. He went from public school to university, and then straight into the Levant Consular Service. Along the way, he developed a sense of comfort that he carries with him. In the few years he has spent in Turkey, he has learned about local art, like prayer rugs, tapestries, and embroideries. After bargaining in the bazaars, he has bought valuable pieces that hang on his walls as decoration instead of traditional pictures.

A Comfortable Home with Personal Touches

He has developed a taste for collecting old weapons, like silver-chased flint-lock pistols and Damascus steel sabres, their blades inlaid with gold and handles studded with coral and turquoise. He even taught a Turkish carpenter to build a comfortable lounge and covered it with a Persian rug, making a cozy divan. He bought a couple of well-padded English armchairs from Constantinople, which the Turks find awkward and undignified to sit in. His room is filled with small personal touches: a stack of pipes, his favorite English tobacco, and a table covered with pieces of embroidery. The table holds photographs in little silver frames, not the Turkish kind, but ones from England, bought in busy shops in London or Oxford Street.

Memories from Home

The photographs show his life before he came to Turkey. There are pictures of his family, including his mother and father, and some of him with his friends in their cricketing clothes before he left England. You can tell which pictures are of his family from where they are placed. He also keeps pictures of cheerful English girls—maybe sisters or friends of his sisters—some of whom he might have known well, while others may have forgotten him by now.

Thoughts of Home

The Vice-Consul, sitting alone in his comfortable room, sometimes misses the life he left behind in England. There are no bright restaurants, no theatres, no music halls, or close friends to hang out with. But even though he might feel lonely or homesick at times, it doesn’t make him weak. If he gets frustrated, he will likely swear, whistle, and light another pipe. In the morning, he takes out his horse, goes for a ride, and shakes off any feelings of gloom.

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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.

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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.

[lifestyleturkey]

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.