Lesser-Known Communist Monuments in Bulgaria

If you’ve already visited the most popular Bulgarian communist monuments and are seeking a more off-the-beaten-path experience, this guide introduces lesser-known but equally compelling landmarks. These lesser-known communist monuments may not immediately appear in internet searches. Still, they offer unique insights into Bulgaria’s controversial communist past and artistic heritage for those willing to go the extra mile.

Pantheon Mother Bulgaria

Built in 1985 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Bulgaria’s Unification and the Bulgarian-Serbian War, this striking monument stands in the village of Gurgulyat, near Slivnitsa, 50 km west of Sofia. The massive red concrete pyramid features a central statue of a woman symbolizing Mother Bulgaria. Accessible mainly by car, this site is perfect for a half-day trip from the capital.

Arch of Freedom

Perched at 1,595 meters above sea level, 15 minutes east of the Beklemeto Pass’s highest point, this 35-meter-high concrete structure commemorates Bulgarian freedom fighters as well as Russian and Soviet soldiers. The arch features statues of soldiers alongside women in traditional Bulgarian attire. Although the passage is not among the most important points in the Russo-Turkish Liberation War of the 19th century and even less so in the events of the Soviet army’s entry into Bulgaria in September 1944, the arch is dedicated to “Russian and Soviet liberators”.

Lenin Monuments

We cannot talk about communism without mentioning Lenin. So here we go – one of the few monuments of Lenin that is still standing is in the village of Banya, just 5 km away from the popular winter resort of Bansko. The monument of Lenin and Georgi Dimitrov was erected in 1967 in honor of the 85th birthday of Georgi Dimitrov, the first communist leader of Bulgaria and prime minister between 1946 and 1949. There is no other monument presenting the two communist leaders together. In fact, there is one more sculptor of Lenin, which is still well preserved to this day and can be seen in the center of the village of Novgrad, located in Northern Bulgaria near by the town of Ruse.

Pantheon of National Revival Heroes in Ruse

This Soviet-style monument honors Bulgarian revolutionaries and enlighteners in Ruse’s old cemetery. Built on the site of a demolished church, it was inaugurated on 28 February 1978, the 100th anniversary of Bulgaria’s liberation from Ottoman rule.

The Pantheon in Burgas

This monument is in Burgas’ Sea Garden. It was built in 1981 to honor anti-fascists who died during World War II. While well-maintained, the Pantheon is not open to visitors. However, it remains a popular meeting spot during May’s high school graduation celebrations.

Georgi Stoykov Rakovski Pantheon in Kotel

In the center of the city of Kotel stands the majestic Pantheon building of the famous Bulgarian Renaissance figure Georgi Stoykov Rakovski. In addition to the revolutionary’s tomb, the building also houses the “Museum of Kotlen Revivalists,” which exhibits the works of over 200 prominent Revivalists who supported and fought for Bulgarian freedom, faith, and culture. The museum dates back to 1981 as part of the “1300 Year Bulgaria” celebration, honoring the foundation of the Bulgarian state in 681.

Apriltsi Memorial Complex

Like the Benkovski Monument, this complex in Panagiurishte also commemorates the 1876 April Uprising. Built in 1976, it features dramatic scenes of revolutionaries battling Ottoman forces. The monument is a classic example of socialist realism. It is located on one of the hills around the city and offers a nice panoramic view of the town.

Pleven Epopee 1877

Pleven Epopee 1877 was built to honor the 100th anniversary of the Liberation of Pleven (a town in Northern Bulgaria) from Ottoman rule. It functions as a museum, commonly known as the Pleven Panorama. The construction of the building has an oval form. It consists of several halls on different floors depicting the events of the Russian-Turkish War of 1877–78—specifically the five-month Siege of Plevna. One of the main attractions is the big panoramic canvas, which presents the final battle. It is 115m long and 15m wide and made of linen with only one connecting vertical seam. You can visit the Panorama every day. There is an entrance fee of 5 euros.

Shumen’s Unfinished Postal Office Tower

The unfinished postal office tower and the adjacent abandoned trade center buildings in the city of Shumen are a true masterpiece of socialist brutalism. Often considered infamous, it was erected in the late 80s of the 20th century. The goal was to make it the centerpiece of the town’s new center, symbolizing the achievements of modern socialist architecture. However, the complex was never completed and remained a symbol of the aborted communism. Although you cannot enter the tower, you can walk around and enjoy the heritage of communism in Bulgaria.

Georgi Benkovski Monument in Koprivshtitsa

You will find this monument in Koprivshtitsa, on one of the hills above the city. It depicts the Bulgarian revolutionist Georgi Benkovski on a horse announcing the fight for freedom of the Bulgarian people. The monument was built in 1976 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the 1876 April Uprising against the Ottomans. Its location provides a fantastic view of the beautiful city of Koprivshtitsa.

Three Generations Monument

Standing on Vlasevitsa Hill near Perushtitsa, this monument spans over 60 meters. It commemorates three pivotal events: the April Uprising, the September Uprising of 1923, and the establishment of communist rule in Bulgaria on September 9, 1944. It is currently abandoned and in disrepair.

Exploring Bulgaria’s lesser-known communist monuments unveils layers of its complex history, seamlessly merging artistic prowess with profound historical narratives. Each one has a story to tell and makes you think about the past in a different way.

Want to learn more about Bulgaria’s communist past? Make sure to join our Sofia Communist Tour.

Curious about life in Bulgaria during the Cold War? Visit The Red Flat.

Also check out:
Sofia’s Lost Communist Heritage: Tracing Bulgaria’s Complex Past