The 22nd September is when Bulgaria celebrates its independence – a national celebration that commemorates the state sovereignty gained back in 1908. This day symbolizes and marks an important moment in time for the country where, after centuries of rule under the Ottoman Empire, the nation achieved state sovereignty and joined a modern European community. To this day, this date symbolizes Bulgaria’s long path towards independence, woth and international acknowledgement.
The history of Bulgaria isn the 19th century is strongly connected to the so-called „Balkan-Problem“ when it comes to international diplomacy. After almost 500 years of Ottoman rule, the Bulgarian people have often tried to revolt. The Russo-Turkish war (1877-78) finally led to crucial changes. The Congress of Berlin in 1878 created a Principality of Bulgaria, which formally remained tributary to the Ottoman Empire but in practice enjoyed considerable autonomy. However, its sovereignty wa limited, as the Great Powers and the Sublime Porte continued to exert influence. On September 22, 1908, Prince Ferdinand of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha declared Bulgaria’s complete independence in the historic city of Tarnovo. The tributary principality became a kingdom, and Ferdinand assumed the title of „Tsar“. The step was not merely a legal formality, but a political signal to Europe: Bulgaria claimes equality with the other sovereign nations. This declaration came at a time when Ottoman power in the Balkans was increasingly eroding and the region’s nation-states were forming. This day is of central importance to Bulgarian national identity. It is seen as the final break with the Ottoman Empire, which had shaped the country’s life, religion, and culture for centuries. At the same time, it marks the beginning of a modern Bulgaria that fought for its place in Europe. While the War of Liberation of 1877-78 laid the military foundations, it was not until 1908 that legal and political independence granted the country full self-determination. In collective memory, September 22 is therefore associated with pride, self-assertion, and the will to be part of Europe.
Independence Day celebrations are particularly concentrated in Turnovo, Bulgaria’s ancient capital and site of Declaraiton of Independence. Military parades, wreath-laying ceremonies, and cultural events take place there. Official speeches by the President and the Prime Minister are also part of the ritual, emphasizing the significance of independence for modern-day Bulgaria. The day is accompanied by concerts, exhibitions, and folk festivals throughout the country, with historical references and national symbols taking center stage. But even this holiday is not without its reflections. Some hisotians point out that while independence in 1908 was a major step, Bulgaria soon became entangled in the Balkan Wars and later the First World War. Others emphasize thath, despite all subsequent conflicts, the day marks the beginning of an independent state whose identity is still based on this declaration.
Today, Independence Day is also interpreted in a European context: Bulgaria has been a member of the European Union since 2007. This raises the question of how national sovereignty can be reconciled with European integration and belonging. September 22nd is therefore not only a remembrance of the past, but also a reflection of current questions: What does independence mean in the 21st century – and how can it be reconciles with shared responsibility in Europe?