A conference marking the 150th anniversary of the 1876 April Uprising was held at the History Museum in Panagyurishte. This event concluded a series of discussions organized by the Bulgarian News Agency (BTA) to foster dialogue surrounding the historical event. Participants included BTA Director General Kiril Valchev, Bulgarian National Radio (BNR) Director General Milen Mitev, Prof.
Georgi Valchev, Rector of the St Kliment Ohridski University of Sofia, Panagyurishte Mayor Zhelyazko Gagov, journalist Boyko Vassilev, and Assoc. Prof. Atanas Shopov, Director of the Panagyurishte History Museum.
BTA Director General Valchev stated that discussions on the April Uprising keep the memory of the martyrs alive. He noted that the conferences spanned the four revolutionary districts—Veliko Tarnovo, Sliven, Vratsa, and Panagyurishte—in addition to Ruse and Giurgiu. Valchev emphasized that the key takeaway was the consensus that long-term goals must guide immediate actions.
He also announced that the 2026 Meeting of Bulgarian Media, organized by BTA, will focus on “Media and Leaders” in Hungary. BNR Director General Mitev stressed the media’s crucial role in connecting with the public during the anniversary. He argued that media and scholars must responsibly build national self-esteem by focusing on achievements rather than exaggeration.
Prof. Valchev urged viewing history as a living document, warning against false patriotism, and highlighted that the uprising demonstrated a desire for self-determination and the importance of believing in the younger generation. Mayor Gagov suggested the anniversary should prompt reflection on unity, urging Bulgarians to honor the legacy of ordinary people.
Boyko Vassilev pointed to the role of journalists during the uprising, noting that the discussions connect historical events to contemporary issues, suggesting the April Uprising remains a relevant, ongoing theme in Bulgarian public life.
Topics: #anniversary #april #uprising
Commemorating such significant historical events helps keep the memory of the April Uprising alive.
What specific aspects of the 1876 April Uprising were discussed at the conference?