Ruse marked the 118th anniversary of the declaration of Bulgaria's independence.

Tuesday, 22 September 2026

An official ceremony at the Freedom Monument in Ruse marked the 118th anniversary of the proclamation of Bulgaria's Independence. Representatives of state and local authorities, institutions, civic organizations, and members of the public took part in the commemoration.

Encho Enchev, Deputy Mayor of Ruse Municipality, delivered an address for the occasion. "On September 22, we recall a moment in Bulgarian history when our state clearly declared its readiness to determine its own path. Independence is a lesson in statehood that remains relevant today. 118 years later, it continues to be a daily responsibility—to develop our city with confidence, to rely on our own knowledge and capabilities, and to safeguard the freedom of our spirit. Let us build Ruse with the self-assurance of people who know where they come from and possess a clear vision for the future," Enchev stated.

Regional Governor Prof. Dr. Lyubomir Vladimirov also addressed the attendees. In his speech, he emphasized the importance of the national interest as a guiding principle in the state's development and a responsibility that should unite society. He noted that Independence Day serves as a reminder not only of the historic achievements of our ancestors but also of the moral duty of every generation to uphold what has been achieved and pass it on to those who follow. Among the distinguished guests were Deputy Mayors Zlatomira Stefanova and Dimitar Nedev; the Chairman of the Municipal Council, Academician Hristo Beloev; the Vice-Rector of Angel Kanchev University of Ruse, Prof. Dr. Teodor Iliev; Members of Parliament; municipal councilors; representatives of state and municipal institutions; and public figures.

The solemn ceremony began with a guard of honor provided by Military Unit 32420 – Ruse and the 13th Youth Guard Detachment of the International Youth Center. To the sounds of ceremonial marches performed by the Municipal Brass Band under the direction of Maestro Dimcho Rubchev, the attendees paid tribute to the cause of Bulgarian Independence. In memory of those who perished for Bulgaria's freedom and independence, His Grace Makariy—Vicar to the Metropolitan of Ruse, Naum—along with priests from the Ruse Metropolis, officiated a memorial service.

The program also featured performances by Radost Hristova from the "Slantse" (Sun) Children's Vocal Group at the Municipal Children's Center for Culture and Art (led by Dr. Natalia Konstantinova) and a chamber vocal group from the Prof. Veselin Stoyanov National School of Arts (instructed by Veronika Damyanova).

As a mark of respect, representatives of institutions, political parties, organizations, and members of the public laid wreaths and flowers at the Monument of Freedom. The ceremony was hosted by Ivaylo Spasimirov, an actor from the Sava Ognyanov Drama Theatre. Independence Day celebrations also feature the exhibition "Ruse’s Sparks in the April Uprising," organized by the "Tradition" Society (Ruse branch) and located behind the Monument of Liberty. The exposition showcases the residents of Ruse who took a direct part in the April Uprising and traces manifestations of the city's freedom-loving and independent spirit in the decades leading up to the declaration of Bulgaria's independence. The exhibition is part of the "Ruse’s Sparks in the April Uprising" project, implemented under the Ruse Municipality’s "Culture" program.

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