Karlovo honors the Apostle of Freedom on his 189th birth anniversary

On July 18, Bulgaria marks the 189th anniversary of the birth of its national hero, Vasil Levski. On this day, commemorative ceremonies are held at every monument to Levski in Bulgaria and abroad, bringing together grateful Bulgarians. Guided by his vision of a “pure and sacred republic”, Levski is widely regarded as the most influential figure in Bulgarian history—one who continues to unite Bulgarians around the world.

Traditionally, the center of the commemorations is Karlovo, the birthplace of the Apostle of Freedom. July 18 is also the town's official holiday. Nestled in the heart of the Rose Valley, Karlovo is best known as the birthplace of Levski. His carefully preserved family home is visited by hundreds of Bulgarians throughout the year. Many students from Bulgarian communities abroad also come here.

Entering the Apostle's home is like entering a sacred place.It is a place of homage not only to his heroic deed but also to the genius of a man whose far-sighted vision of the path to freedom and his comprehensive concept of a democratic state continue to inspire us today.

• Levski's notebook is awhole universe revealing many faces of the Apostle of Freedom

On July 18, the celebrations in Karlovo traditionally begin with a solemn Holy Mass and a prayer service for the well-being of the town and its people. The town’s grateful citizens also pay tribute by laying flowers at the grave of Vasil Levski’s mother, Gina Kuncheva.

On this day, Karlovo also welcomes the participants in the tourist hike “Following in the Footsteps of the Apostle of Freedom”, while awards from Foundation Vasil Levski and the Vasil Levski Committee are presented.

The day will conclude with a ceremonial rally and fireworks organized by the Municipality of Karlovo.

Edited by Gergana Mancheva

Translated by Kostadin Atanasov