“A sacred and pure republic” – such was the dream for Bulgaria of the man who travelled the country far and wide to set up revolutionary committees and prepare the country for its freedom.

Today, 18 July, 2021 marks 184 years since the birth of Vasil Ivanov Kunchev, known as Levski. To the places that remind us of Vasil Levski and his revolutionary efforts we add one more – in northeastern Bulgaria. Tonight the people of Vetrino are organizing an official ceremony to unveil a bust to Vasil Levski, where they will lay down flowers and wreaths as a token of their gratitude. The day on which the national hero was born is celebrated every year in his home town of Karlovo. This year the town is hosting the 30^th national festival dedicated to the 184^th birth anniversary of Vasil Levski. The day will begin there with a church service at the St. Nicholas church and a flag raising ceremony, during which the flags of Bulgaria and of Karlovo will be hoisted, and the participants in the national hike called “Following in the footsteps of the Apostle” will be welcomed. In the evening there will be a fireworks display.

The ideals of the Apostle of Bulgaria’s freedom live on in the heart of every person in Bulgaria. Some time ago we presented an anonymous artist, for whom Levski is so much more than a hero from history books – read more about No Name and his work in Vasil Levski: a mission and an inspiration.

Compiled by Elena Karkalanova