It has been 137 years since Eastern Rumelia announced its independence from the Ottoman Empire and joined the Principality of Bulgaria. To celebrate freedom, the Bulgarian flag will be solemnly hoisted, military rituals will be carried out, and wreaths will be set in memory of the dead throughout the nation’s major towns.
On September 6, 1885, the Bulgarian people took a stand against the unfairness of the Berlin Treaty’s provisions and moved closer to achieving national unity. On this day, the Union of the Principality of Bulgaria with Eastern Rumelia took place, representing the Bulgarian people’s unity. This event sparked the upward development of the restored state. The National assembly declared the day an official holiday in the country on February 18, 1998.
Celebration in Plovdiv
Plovdiv is called the capital of unification. According to the traditions, the celebration begins with a prayer session at the “Assumption” Cathedral at 10 a.m. Two of the Regional History Museum exhibits were accessible to the public free of cost; the fireworks display started at 8:30 p.m. at Saedinenie Square.
President Rumen Radev also took part in the celebration. He delivered a speech and accepted the rank of honour. Vice President Iliana Yotova also attended the ceremony.
National Security Service (NSS) was given responsibility for the citizens’ security. Plovdiv residents and guests of the city could park in the blue zone for free. The use of drones was prohibited last night in the event area.
Celebrations in other cities
The celebration in Varna began at 9:30 a.m in front of the memorial plaque of Prince Alexander Battenberg at “Nezavisimost” Square.
A flower-laying ritual was conducted on “Georgi Izmirliev” Square in Blagoevgrad in front of the memorial plaque to remember the fallen soldiers who died for the freedom and independence of Bulgaria.