Modern History of Bulgaria 1877–1946

1877–1878 Liberation from the Ottoman Empire

The Russo-Turkish War of 1877–1878 ended with Bulgaria’s liberation from nearly 500 years of Ottoman rule. Russian troops helped the Bulgarians win their freedom, with major battles taking place across the country.

March 1878 The Treaty of San Stefano

After the war, the Treaty of San Stefano was signed between Russia and the Ottoman Empire. It created a large Bulgarian state that included most of Macedonia and Thrace. However, Britain and France believed this new Bulgaria would be controlled by Russia. Because of this, they refused to support the treaty.

July 1878 The Congress of Berlin

Soon after, the Congress of Berlin changed the agreement. Bulgaria was split into three parts:

The Principality of Bulgaria, with its capital in Sofia, became mostly independent Customized Tour Bulgaria.

Eastern Rumelia, a separate province, remained under Ottoman control but had its own local government.

Macedonia was returned to direct Ottoman rule.

1879–1908 Building a New State

In 1879, a German aristocrat named Alexander of Battenberg became the first prince of the new Bulgarian state. In 1885, the people of Eastern Rumelia declared a union with Bulgaria, strengthening the country. Two years later, in 1887, Prince Ferdinand of Saxe-Coburg-Gotha replaced Alexander after a coup.

In 1908, Ferdinand declared full independence from the Ottoman Empire. He also proclaimed Bulgaria a kingdom and took the title Tsar (King).

1912–1913 The Balkan Wars

Bulgaria joined Serbia and Greece to fight the Ottoman Empire during the First Balkan War. Together, they defeated the Ottomans and pushed them out of Macedonia and Thrace. But soon after, the former allies turned against Bulgaria in the Second Balkan War, seizing land Bulgaria had hoped to keep. Bulgaria lost large parts of Macedonia to Serbia and Greece.

1915–1918 World War I

During World War I, Bulgaria sided with Germany and Austria-Hungary. It hoped to regain lost territories. However, a Serbian, French, and British attack in Macedonia led to Bulgaria’s defeat. In 1918, Tsar Ferdinand abdicated, and his son, Boris III, became king.

1919–1930s Political Turmoil

In 1919, the Peasant Party, led by Aleksandar Stamboliyski, won elections and promised big changes. But in 1923, he was murdered by far-right forces. After that, Bulgaria was ruled by several authoritarian governments with little public support.

1941–1944 World War II and Soviet Invasion

In 1941, Bulgaria joined Nazi Germany in World War II. In 1943, Tsar Boris III died, and his son Simeon II, only six years old, became king. In September 1944, the Soviet Red Army invaded Bulgaria, and the Fatherland Front, supported by the USSR, took power.

1946 End of the Monarchy

In September 1946, Bulgaria was declared a People’s Republic. The monarchy was abolished, and Communist rule began. In October 1946, Georgi Dimitrov, a long-time communist leader, became Prime Minister. He introduced major economic changes and started the oppression of political opponents, marking the start of communist rule in Bulgaria.

A Brief History of Bulgaria

1000–200 BC The Thracian Tribes

During this time, the region that is now Bulgaria was inhabited by a group of tribes called the Thracians. They were skilled in metalwork and left behind beautiful tombs and treasures, including gold and silver jewelry, ornaments, and weapons. These remains show that Thracian culture was both rich and advanced.

150 BC – 50 AD Roman Rule Begins

Starting around 150 BC, the Romans slowly took control of the Thracians and made the area a province of the Roman Empire. They built roads, cities, and fortresses. The city of Sofia was fortified and named Serdica, becoming an important Roman center.

7th Century The Arrival of the Slavs

In the 600s, the Slavs migrated peacefully into the region and became the dominant ethnic group. Their influence continues to shape Bulgarian culture and language today Customized Tour Bulgaria.

681 AD The Birth of Bulgaria

In 681, Khan Asparuh, leader of the Bulgars (a Turkic nomadic tribe from Central Asia), entered the region. He defeated the Byzantines and united with the local Slavs, founding the First Bulgarian Kingdom. This year is officially considered the beginning of the Bulgarian state.

865 AD Conversion to Christianity

Under Khan Boris I, Bulgaria officially adopted Christianity as the state religion. Over the next century, the Bulgar nobility adopted the Slavic language and customs, blending cultures to form a unified national identity.

1014 Defeat by the Byzantines

In 1014, the Byzantine Emperor Basil II, known as the “Bulgar Slayer”, defeated the Bulgarian army at Strumitsa. This led to 170 years of Byzantine rule over Bulgaria.

1185 Second Bulgarian Kingdom

In 1185, two Bulgarian nobles, Peter and Asen, led a successful revolt against the Byzantines, creating the Second Bulgarian Empire with its capital at Veliko Tarnovo.

1197–1230 A Golden Era

Under the rule of Tsars Kaloyan and Ivan Asen II, Bulgaria defeated many enemies and became the strongest power in the Balkans. This was a time of military success and cultural growth.

1240s Mongol Invasions

The Mongol invasions in the 1240s caused widespread destruction and led to a long period of political and cultural decline.

1393 Ottoman Conquest

In 1393, the Ottoman Turks captured Veliko Tarnovo, ending Bulgarian independence. The Ottoman Empire ruled Bulgaria for nearly 500 years.

15th–18th Centuries Survival Under Ottoman Rule

During Ottoman rule, Bulgarian culture was kept alive in churches and monasteries. Religion and traditions played an important role in preserving national identity.

19th Century The Road to Independence

As trade and business grew, a Bulgarian middle class emerged. They began to open Bulgarian-language schools and spread ideas of freedom. A new generation of patriotic leaders started pushing for independence.

1876 The April Uprising

In 1876, Bulgarian revolutionaries launched the April Uprising in the town of Koprivshtitsa. The revolt was quickly crushed, and over 30,000 Bulgarians were killed by Ottoman forces. The brutality shocked Europe, and soon after, Russia prepared to take military action against the Ottoman Empire to support Bulgaria.

Understanding Body Language in Bulgaria

One of the first things a visitor to Bulgaria should learn is that body language here is different from most other countries. In Bulgaria:

Shaking your head means “yes”

Nodding your head means “no”

This can be very confusing for foreigners. It’s a unique tradition that has survived through centuries of Bulgarian culture and history. Many visitors find this reversed gesture system strange, but it’s something locals use daily.

To avoid misunderstandings, it’s a good idea to practice these gestures in front of a mirror before heading out. With a bit of effort, you’ll get used to it—and it might even impress the locals!

National Tourist Information Centre

If you’re in Sofia and need help as a tourist, visit the National Tourist Information Centre, located at:

Address: pl. Sveta Nedelya 1

Phone: +359 2 987 97 78

Website: www.bulgariatravel.org

This center recently received a full makeover and now offers a modern and welcoming environment. The staff are friendly and speak good English. They offer:

Free city maps

Local travel advice

Help with public transport and sightseeing tips

You’ll find stylish stools where you can sit while the staff answer your questions or look up information in their database. However, please note: the staff cannot book hotels for you. They do, however, offer helpful locally published guides—like this one Customized Tour Bulgaria!

Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 09:00 to 17:00

Closed: Saturday and Sunday

Facts About Bulgaria

Here are some quick facts to help you understand the country better:

Population (July 2006 estimates):
Bulgaria: 7,385,367 people

Sofia (capital): 1,377,531 people

Ethnic Groups

Bulgarian: 83.9%

Turkish: 9.4%

Roma (Gypsies): 4.7%

Religion

Bulgarian Orthodox: 82.6%

Muslim: 12.2%

Roman Catholic: 0.6%

Protestant: 0.5%

Geography and Borders

Total area: 110,550 square kilometers

Neighboring countries: Turkey, Greece, North Macedonia, Serbia, Romania

Eastern border: The Black Sea, with a 354 km-long coastline

Highest mountain: Musala (2,925 meters), located in the Rila Mountains, south of Sofia

Time Zone

Bulgaria is in the Eastern European Time Zone (EET):

GMT +2

When it is 12:00 (noon) in Sofia:

It is 11:00 in Berlin

10:00 in London

05:00 in New York

Bulgaria What You Should Know Before You Go

Alcohol in Bulgaria

The most traditional alcoholic drink in Bulgaria is rakia (also spelled rakiya), a strong fruit brandy. The most common types are grape rakia (grozdova) and plum rakia (slivova). Rakia is usually served in small 50g or 100g shots and is almost always consumed with food—especially a shopska salad or some kind of appetizer.

If you order rakia without food, restaurant staff may find it unusual. In Bulgaria, drinking spirits without at least a small snack is not typical and might get you a few puzzled looks.

When it comes to beer, Bulgaria produces several decent local lagers. Some of the most popular brands are:

Zagorka

Shumensko

Kamenitsa

These are widely available and considered reliable, although not particularly unique Customized Tour Bulgaria.

Bulgarian wine, on the other hand, is gaining international attention—especially the dry red varieties. Here are some standout wines to look for:

Cabernet Sauvignon from Svishtov and Oryahovitsa

Merlot from Stambolovo

Gumza from Novo Selo

Mavrud from Asenovgrad

Melnik from the Melnik region

For white wine lovers, Chardonnay and Traminer from Veliki Preslav are among the best in the country.

Customs and Travel Regulations

If you’re traveling within the European Union (EU), you can legally bring the following from Bulgaria:

10 liters of spirits

90 liters of wine

110 liters of beer

However, many countries limit cigarette imports to just 200 cigarettes from Bulgaria.

You are not allowed to export antiques, artworks, coins, or items of historical value without a special permit from the Ministry of Culture.

Due to concerns about child trafficking, travelers accompanied by young children may be asked to provide documents proving their parental relationship (e.g. birth certificates or legal guardianship papers) before being allowed to leave the country.

Electricity in Bulgaria

Bulgaria uses a 220-volt electrical system, the same as most of Europe. The standard plugs are two-round-pin European style.

Visitors from the UK will need an adapter.

Visitors from the US will need both an adapter and a voltage transformer for devices that cannot handle 220 volts (like some hairdryers or chargers).

Smoking in Public Places

By law, cafés, bars, and restaurants must provide non-smoking areas. However, in reality, these areas are often small and not clearly separated. You might find yourself sitting next to smokers, even in the so-called “non-smoking” section.

If you are sensitive to smoke or strongly prefer smoke-free environments, it’s a good idea to check in advance or choose outdoor seating where available.

Arriving in Sofia by Train or Bus

Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, is connected to the rest of Europe and the country through a variety of transport options. Whether you arrive by train or by bus, here’s what to expect and how to find your way into the city center.

By Train Sofia Central Railway Station

Sofia’s Central Railway Station (Tsentralna Gara) is open daily from 05:00 to 24:00. The building is a large, grey concrete structure located about 20 minutes on foot north of the city center. Although not the most welcoming place, it has the basic facilities most travelers need.

Facilities

Left luggage options: You can store bags in coin-operated lockers in the basement (2 leva for 24 hours), or in a left luggage office (garderob) located just off the east side of the main ticket hall (open 06:00–23:00; 2 leva per item).

ATMs, money exchange kiosks, fast food outlets, and small bars are also available Customized Tour Bulgaria.

Caution: Be careful of pickpockets, especially in the nearby underpass and waiting areas.

Getting to the City Center

The cheapest way to reach central Sofia is by tram. Tram No. 1 or 7 stops opposite the station forecourt. Walk through the underground underpass to reach the tram platform. Tickets cost 0.70 leva and can be bought at kiosks or from the driver.

Get off at Ploshtad Sveta Nedelya, close to many central hotels and attractions. You’ll know you’re there when you see the Balkan Sheraton Hotel on your left.

If you prefer a taxi, be careful. Many drivers outside the station may overcharge or refuse to use the meter. It’s safer to walk 200 meters east to the nearby bus station, where taxi services are more reliable.

By Bus Sofia Central Bus Station

Most international and domestic buses arrive at the Central Bus Station (Tsentralna Avtogara), located about 200 meters east of the train station. Unlike the train station, this terminal is modern, clean, and well-organized.

Facilities

Toilets, shops, cafes, a pharmacy, and an ATM.

A 24-hour left luggage office (garderob) is located in the main hall. Prices range from 1 to 3 leva, depending on the size of your bag.

Getting to the City Center

You can either:

Walk 15–20 minutes south along Maria Luiza Boulevard, or

Walk 200 meters west to the railway station and catch tram No. 1 or 7 into the center.

There is also a taxi booking office next to the main exit, where you can arrange a reliable ride.

Other Bus Stops Trafik Market Terminal

Some international buses arrive at the Trafik Market terminal, which is located between the central bus and train stations. This is basically a parking lot with a few ticket offices and small cafes—there are no major facilities here.

If you arrive at Trafik Market, you will need to walk to either the train station or bus station nearby for access to transport, taxis, and traveler services.

Final Tips for a Smooth Arrival

Always buy public transport tickets before boarding, and don’t forget to get a separate ticket for large luggage.

Avoid unlicensed taxis—use official taxi stands or booking offices.

Exchange only a small amount of money at the station for immediate needs, as rates are better in the city.

Bulgaria’s Top Winter Ski Resort

While Mount Vitosha near Sofia offers enjoyable and low-cost skiing for beginners and casual skiers, it doesn’t match the full experience available at Bansko, Bulgaria’s number one winter resort. Located 150 km southeast of Sofia, Bansko is easy to reach and offers a wide range of both on-piste (ski slope) and off-piste (freestyle and backcountry) activities.

Bansko is well developed and welcoming to tourists, with modern ski facilities, cozy hotels, traditional restaurants, and a lively après-ski scene. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced skier, the resort has something for everyone—including snowboarding, snowshoeing, spa visits, and cultural tours in the old town Coastal Bulgaria Holidays.

If you’re planning a trip, don’t miss the “Bansko In Your Pocket” guide. It provides detailed local information, including where to stay, eat, and what to see. To access it, visit www.inyourpocket.com and click on “Bansko.”

Arriving in Sofia First Impressions

Your first few minutes in Sofia, Bulgaria’s capital, might feel a bit overwhelming—especially if you don’t read Cyrillic (the local alphabet) and if airport staff aren’t too eager to speak English. But don’t worry! A little patience and a good sense of humor will go a long way in helping you settle in smoothly.

Getting to Sofia by Plane

Sofia International Airport is located about 10 km east of the city center. The airport has two terminals:

Terminal 1: Older and used mainly by low-cost carriers.

Terminal 2: Modern and more frequently used by national and international airlines.

Both terminals have cafés, car rental desks, ATMs, and currency exchange booths. However, exchange rates at the airport are usually poor, so only exchange enough money for basic needs like transport.

Getting to the City Center

Avoid taxi scams by skipping the people who approach you inside the airport. Instead, go directly to the official yellow taxi rank outside the terminal. A trip to the city center should cost no more than 10 Bulgarian leva (around €5).

Another option is to take the public bus:

Bus 84 from Terminal 1

Bus 284 from Terminal 2

Both buses go to Orlov Most near the city center and run every 10 to 15 minutes from 05:00 to 23:00. Tickets cost 0.70 leva if bought from the kiosk by the stop, or 0.80 leva from the driver. If you have large luggage, you must buy an extra ticket per bag, or you may face a fine if checked by inspectors.

Final Tips

Sofia may seem unfamiliar at first, but it’s a welcoming city full of history, culture, and charm. Whether you’re passing through on your way to Bansko or staying for a few days, you’ll find plenty to discover in Bulgaria’s growing travel scene.

Bansko Bulgaria’s Top Winter Resort

While Sofia’s Mount Vitosha offers fun and affordable skiing for a day trip, it doesn’t match the variety and excitement found in Bansko, Bulgaria’s leading winter resort. Located about 150 km southeast of Sofia, Bansko is easy to reach and well worth the trip.

If you’re planning a visit, make sure to check out the brand new “Bansko In Your Pocket” guide. It has all the essential info you’ll need for your trip. You can also visit www.inyourpocket.com and click on “Bansko” to learn more.

Sofia in Winter A City Break That’s Gaining Popularity

When people think of a winter vacation, they usually imagine visiting galleries, browsing museums, and doing some seasonal shopping. Sofia might not be the first city that comes to mind, but that’s starting to change Coastal Bulgaria Holidays.

The Bulgarian capital is quickly becoming a great off-season destination. Each month, more attractions in the city are gaining “must-see” status, making Sofia an exciting option for winter travelers.

Revamped Museums Worth Visiting

Sofia’s National Archaeological Museum has transformed from a dull place full of old artifacts into one of Europe’s best historical collections. Visitors can now enjoy beautifully arranged rooms filled with stunning treasures from Bulgaria’s long past.

Even better, the Military History Museum had a major upgrade in 2007. It is now a modern, tourist-friendly museum that takes visitors on a journey through over 150 years of Bulgarian military history. It’s a top spot for history lovers.

Shopping in Sofia Unique and Unexpected

Sofia is experiencing a retail transformation. While it’s not packed with high-end international fashion chains, it offers something different: quirky, unusual, and sometimes bizarre Bulgarian-made products.

If you’re interested in local crafts and one-of-a-kind items you won’t find anywhere else, our Shopping Guide on page 56 is a great place to start. It’s not about fashion trends—it’s about discovering something unique.

Ice Skating A Seasonal Highlight

Winter fun in Sofia doesn’t stop indoors. A popular outdoor activity during the cold months is ice skating. Temporary ice rinks appear around the city, adding a festive spirit to the downtown area.

One of the most visited rinks is right in front of the National Theatre, offering a magical atmosphere surrounded by beautiful buildings. Another favorite is the new rink at Lake Ariana, located in the northeast corner of Borisova Gradina Park. Both are perfect for enjoying the winter charm of Sofia.

City or Slopes – Bulgaria Has It All

Whether you’re drawn to the snowy slopes of Bansko or the cultural charm of Sofia, Bulgaria offers great value and variety for winter travelers. From skiing and skating to museums and shopping, there’s something for everyone this season.

Sofia A Surprising Winter City Break

When people think of a typical winter holiday, they imagine visiting art galleries, exploring museums, and shopping in cozy local stores. Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, might not be the first city that comes to mind. But that’s starting to change.

In recent years, Sofia has been growing into a stronger and more attractive city break destination—even during the off-season. Month by month, more tourists are discovering the city’s rich history, culture, and unique shopping experiences.

A Museum Makeover From Boring to Brilliant

One of the biggest improvements in Sofia is its museums. The National Archaeological Museum, once considered dull and dusty, has completely transformed. It’s now home to one of the most fascinating collections in Europe. Visitors can enjoy a room-by-room journey through centuries of beautiful and rare historical treasures Coastal Bulgaria Holidays.

Another great success story is the Military History Museum, which was completely renovated in 2007. It used to feel old-fashioned, but now it offers a modern, well-organized look at 150 years of Bulgarian history. With displays of uniforms, weapons, and military equipment, it’s both educational and engaging for tourists.

Shopping Quirky, Unique, and Ever-Changing

Sofia is also going through a retail revolution. While it may not yet be a fashion capital, it’s quickly becoming a great place for unusual shopping. If you’re looking for big international fashion brands, Sofia might not be your top choice. However, if you enjoy finding unique, strange, or handmade Bulgarian items, this is the place to explore.

Sofia’s small shops are filled with one-of-a-kind products, local crafts, and surprising finds you’re unlikely to see anywhere else. Our shopping guide (see page 56) offers a list of places where you can discover something truly different.

Winter Fun Ice Skating in the City

Winter in Sofia isn’t just about indoor activities. One of the most enjoyable things to do outdoors is ice skating. Temporary ice rinks pop up all around the city during the colder months, bringing seasonal fun to locals and tourists alike.

One of the most popular rinks is right in front of the National Theatre, creating a beautiful setting for skaters of all ages. Another crowd favorite is the brand-new ice rink at Lake Ariana, located in the northeast corner of Borisova Gradina Park. These rinks are a perfect way to enjoy Sofia’s winter atmosphere.

Visit Sofia This Winter

Sofia might not have the fame of other European capitals, but it offers plenty of charm, culture, and fun—especially in winter. With improved museums, exciting shopping, and festive outdoor activities, the Bulgarian capital is quickly becoming a must-visit destination for winter travelers.

Felix Kanitz’s Journey Through Bulgaria

In 1860, Felix Kanitz first came to Bulgaria. A few years later, the country became the main focus of his travels and scientific work. He studied Bulgaria in many ways—archaeologically, historically, geographically, ethnographically, and cartographically. In simple terms, Kanitz explored the country’s past, culture, people, and land.

Sharing the Bulgarian Story with the West

Along with his research, Kanitz wrote many articles for the Western audience. He shared truthful and detailed information about the life of the Bulgarian people, especially during their struggle for national liberation from the Ottoman Empire. His writings helped the rest of Europe learn about Bulgaria’s culture and hopes for freedom Coastal Bulgaria Holidays.

Many Visits and Difficult Travels

Between 1862 and 1874, Kanitz traveled to Bulgaria several times. He crossed the Balkan Mountains 18 times—an impressive achievement, especially considering the hard conditions and lack of modern transport. Despite these challenges, he continued his deep studies and research.

During these travels, he collected information for his most famous work, “Danube Bulgaria and the Balkans”, which was published in 1878 in Leipzig. This book was beautifully illustrated by Kanitz himself and received a lot of attention both in Bulgaria and abroad. The book is still considered one of the most valuable historical and ethnographic studies about 19th-century Bulgaria.

Recognition and Respect

Kanitz’s book showed the creativity, strength, and potential of the Bulgarian people. He believed that they had a bright future ahead. His studies were based on real evidence and observations, which helped many Europeans understand and respect Bulgaria.

Kanitz also created one of the most accurate maps of Bulgaria at that time. This map included all ethnic Bulgarian areas—Moesia, Thrace, and Macedonia—which made it very important and respected among scholars.

A True Friend of Bulgaria

Felix Kanitz supported the Bulgarian national movement and remained a loyal friend of the country even after its liberation from Ottoman rule in 1878. He continued to follow Bulgaria’s development until his death on December 22, 1903.

An Artist as Well as a Scientist

Besides being a scientist, Kanitz was a skilled artist and engraver. He made many pencil sketches and watercolor paintings (called “wateredors”) that showed the natural beauty of Bulgarian cities, mountains, rivers, and villages. These images give us a real sense of what Bulgaria looked like in the 19th century.

His Legacy Lives On

Years later, Kanitz’s nephew, Jacques Kanitz, donated many of his uncle’s original drawings and archives to the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences. Thanks to this donation, many of Felix Kanitz’s artworks have been shared with the Bulgarian public and continue to be admired to this day.

Felix Kanitz – A True Friend of Bulgaria

Felix Kanitz was a Hungarian painter, journalist, and explorer who dedicated his life to studying the people of the Balkans, especially the Bulgarians. He is best known for his important work “Danube Bulgaria and the Balkans”, written in the early 1860s. Through his writings, he showed great admiration and respect for the Bulgarian people.

Breaking Stereotypes About Bulgarians

At the time, many Europeans believed that Bulgarians were lazy and unskilled. However, Kanitz strongly disagreed. He was amazed by the hardworking spirit and skills of the people. He wrote:

“In Europe, they think the Bulgarians are lazy, but to my great surprise, I saw towns and villages full of life and special crafts. In one town, people made only belts and knives. In another, they focused on metalwork, pottery, or woodcarving. Elsewhere, they produced fine linen, rugs, and braids Coastal Bulgaria Holidays.”

Kanitz was so impressed that he predicted Bulgaria would become a strong industrial country in the Balkans one day.

Love for Bulgarian Nature and Art

Kanitz was not only a writer but also a talented artist. He created many detailed and beautiful drawings of the Bulgarian countryside, especially in northern Bulgaria. His artwork captures the beauty of nature, as well as daily life and customs of the Bulgarian people in the 19th century.

Early Life and Education

Felix Kanitz was born on August 2, 1829, in the old part of Budapest, Hungary. He came from a large merchant family. As a child, he loved painting and dreamed of becoming an artist. However, his parents wanted him to become a musician because of his natural musical talent. He even studied the violin and was a classmate of the famous Hungarian violinist Joseph Joachim.

Still, his passion for art was stronger. At age 13, in 1842, Kanitz graduated from an art school and became an engraver apprentice for artist Vince Grimm. He worked there for four years and developed his skills as a capable artist.

Life in Vienna and Travels in the Balkans

In 1847, Kanitz moved to Vienna, Austria, where he lived for the rest of his life. He worked as a journalist and illustrator for the German magazine Illustrirte Zeitung in Leipzig. This job allowed him to travel across Europe, especially in the Balkan countries. Among all the places he visited, Bulgaria captured his heart the most.

Kanitz noticed how little Europe knew about the Balkans, so he began to study and share what he learned. He focused on the culture, traditions, and everyday life of the Balkan peoples, making his works valuable for both history and anthropology.

A Lasting Legacy

Felix Kanitz is remembered as one of the first Europeans to truly appreciate and understand the Bulgarian people. His work helped change the way Europe saw Bulgaria. Today, his writings and drawings remain an important record of Bulgarian history and culture in the 19th century.

Greek Army Actions and the Murder of Eulogius

The Bombardment and Surrender

On June 17th, the Greek Army bombarded a house in Salonika where a small Bulgarian force was stationed. By the next day, June 18th, the Bulgarians surrendered.

On June 18th, the Greeks arrested Eulogius, the Vicar of the Bulgarian Archbishop of Salonica. He was put on board a Greek steamer called the “Mariette Ralli”. Later that evening, he was transferred to another ship, the “Catherine”, where he was treated cruelly Guided Turkey Tours .

On June 19th, the ship set sail, but only three hours later, Eulogius was stabbed and thrown into the sea. The official Greek account claimed that he was killed while fighting in the streets of Salonika, but the Carnegie Commission states that this is not true.

Greek Army Actions Begin

The violent actions of the Greek Army began on July 4th with the first conflict in Kukush. On July 7th, further violence occurred in Demir-Hissar.

On July 12th, King Constantine ordered reprisals based on the events in Demir-Hissar. However, the Carnegie Commission notes that the Greek reprisals started several days before the Bulgarian provocation.

Destruction of Kukush

When the Greek Army entered Kukush, the town was still intact. But today, Kukush is nothing but ruins. The Carnegie Commission points out that the Greek Army started the second war by deliberately burning a Bulgarian town—Kukush.

A Call for Reflection

The Commission concludes by highlighting that if the Greeks had remembered the biblical saying, “Let him who is without sin cast the first stone,” they might have hesitated before launching a campaign based on falsehoods and violence that ended up hurting them severely.

Destruction of Bulgarian Villages

The Carnegie Commission summarized the actions of the Greek Army with the following findings:

“Systematically and in cold blood, the Greeks burned one hundred and sixty Bulgarian villages and destroyed at least 16,000 Bulgarian homes.”

The Murder of the Vicar of the Bulgarian Archbishop

Another terrible act was the murder of the Vicar of the Bulgarian Archbishop of Salonica, Archimandrite Eulogius. He was known to be a highly educated man and a patriot with noble and elevated views. His death marked another tragic incident in the conflict Guided Turkey Tours .

The Greek Army’s actions were marked by brutality and destruction against Bulgarian civilians. The letters and reports from the Carnegie Commission provide strong evidence of systematic violence and the killing of non-combatants, including women, children, and prisoners. The destruction of Bulgarian villages and homes was widespread, and even religious figures were not spared from violence.