On March 3rd, Bulgaria celebrates its National Day – the day the country was resurrected as a free state after five centuries of Ottoman rule. On this date in 1878, the Treaty of San Stefano was signed, marking the end of the Russo-Turkish War (1877–1878) and outlining the borders of the reborn Bulgarian state.
What do we commemorate on March 3rd?
Bulgaria’s National Day is more than just a historical date – it is a symbol of the Bulgarian will for freedom and independence. For centuries, the Bulgarian people preserved their spirit, language, and culture, despite foreign domination. The National Revival, the April Uprising of 1876, and the heroism of the Bulgarian volunteers during the Battle of Shipka Pass are just some of the events that paved the way to Bulgaria’s liberation.
The signing of the Treaty of San Stefano on March 3rd, 1878, marked the end of military actions and laid the foundation for Bulgarian independence. Although the treaty was revised a few months later at the Berlin Congress, March 3rd remains a powerful symbol of our national revival.
Where and how is the holiday celebrated?
March 3rd is a day when all of Bulgaria remembers the sacrifice of thousands of soldiers and volunteers who gave their lives for freedom. Across the country, solemn ceremonies, wreath-laying, and military parades are held in their honor.
🔹 Shipka Peak – Every year, thousands of Bulgarians climb to the Monument of Freedom to pay tribute to the fallen volunteers and Russian soldiers. This is where some of the most heroic battles of the war took place.
🔹 Sofia – In the capital, the celebrations include the raising of the national flag in front of the Monument to the Unknown Soldier, a military parade, and a solemn torch-lit ceremony and inspection.
🔹 Stara Zagora – This city holds a special place in Bulgaria’s historical memory. It is home to the Monument to the Defenders of Stara Zagora, which commemorates the bravery of the Bulgarian volunteers and Russian soldiers who defended the city in July 1877.
🔹 The Samara Flag – the sacred symbol of the struggle
One of the strongest symbols of Bulgarian freedom is the Samara Flag – the flag of the Bulgarian Volunteer Corps, now preserved in the National Museum of Military History. A gift from the people of the Russian city Samara, it became the banner of the Bulgarian volunteers and was carried into the fiercest battles. Under its colors, thousands of Bulgarians swore to fight for their homeland’s freedom.
Why is March 3rd still important today?
Today, more than a century and a half after liberation, March 3rd remains a celebration of unity, national pride, and reverence for our ancestors. It is a day to remember that freedom is not a given, but a victory – achieved through blood, determination, and sacrifice.
Let us never forget the heroism of those who fought, and always carry Bulgaria in our hearts!
Happy March 3rd! 🇧🇬
