Founders of the Bulgarian State Monument — Attraction in Shumen

I had read the impressions of others about this place and I admit ... I had high expectations! And here they are all really ... GREAT! I had already noticed the monument since I entered Shumen. It can be seen (depending on the area) even from 20-30 km!

To reach it we only have to walk a pedestrian alley. The area is quite neat but it is clear that not much has been done since the inauguration until now. Some of the lanterns were broken, there were many dry weeds on the edge of the alley, and so on. Somehow I think that this legacy is not exposed to its true value!

We go ahead and get to the ticket office. I paid 4 levs for an adult. Also from here you can receive informative material in English. They did not have Romanian, just like at the Mosque. We are glad that we are almost alone in this huge place! I managed to take some pictures from a distant, free frame, without tourists (see pictures).

As a short history, this place was inaugurated in 1981, marking the 1300th anniversary of the founding of the first Bulgarian Kingdom by the Asparuh Inn in 631.

Inside this huge cube, we find significant personalities to the times referred to. Asparukh Inn dismounted south of the Danube. Legend has it that he pointed to heaven and earth, and said that from now on it would be Bulgarian territory. Currently this area would represent the northern half of Bulgaria plus Dobrogea but also the mouth of the Danube.

The famous cube horse crushes Byzantine insignia. Further on we find the inns Tervel, Krum and Omurtag, which confirm the legend brought stability, expansion and prosperity. The character who seems to be coming to you is actually Tsar Boris I, who would look at the religious leaders and listen to their motives for converting to one of...

I recently had the opportunity to visit the monument dedicated to the founders of Bulgaria, and I must say, it left me awestruck. The sheer magnificence of the monument is truly striking, and it serves as a powerful testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of Bulgaria.

The monument itself is a magnificent display of craftsmanship and artistry. The attention to detail and the grandeur of its design are truly remarkable. It stands as a tribute to the founders of Bulgaria, and it instills a deep sense of pride and appreciation for their contributions.

However, I do have a slight concern regarding the condition of the road leading to the monument. The road was not up to the standards I had expected, and it somewhat diminished the overall experience. I believe that improving the quality of the road would greatly enhance the accessibility and overall experience for visitors.

Additionally, I must mention that I encountered some difficulties in finding a restroom facility near the monument. It would be beneficial to have clear signage or better facilities in the vicinity, as this would greatly improve the overall comfort and convenience for visitors.

Despite these minor setbacks, I would highly recommend visiting the monument to anyone with an interest in history and culture. It is a truly awe-inspiring tribute to the founders of Bulgaria and serves as a reminder of the rich heritage that the country possesses.

In conclusion, the monument to the founders of Bulgaria is a sight to behold. While the road leading to the monument could use some improvement, and the lack of accessible restroom facilities is an inconvenience, it is undeniably a must-visit for anyone wanting to immerse themselves in the captivating history...

The Founders of the Bulgarian State Monument, located in Shumen, Bulgaria, is a colossal tribute to the origins and resilience of the Bulgarian nation. Completed in 1981 to celebrate 1,300 years of Bulgarian statehood, this monument is a dramatic blend of concrete brutalism and powerful symbolism, standing proudly atop a plateau overlooking the city.

Designed by sculptor Krum Damyanov and architect Georgi Gechev, the monument features massive stone figures representing key figures in early Bulgarian history—most notably Khan Asparuh, the founder of the First Bulgarian Empire, and other rulers like Tervel, Krum, and Omurtag. The sculptures, carved in sharp, geometric lines, exude a sense of strength and permanence, reflecting the enduring legacy of the Bulgarian state.

Beyond its imposing architecture, the monument serves as a historical narrative. Mosaic panels and inscriptions guide visitors through milestones in Bulgaria’s formation, blending art and history in a powerful visual experience. The elevated location offers panoramic views of Shumen and the surrounding landscape, adding to the monument's majestic atmosphere.

Though rooted in the aesthetics of the communist era, the monument transcends politics, celebrating national identity and heritage. It's a lesser-known treasure that leaves a deep impression on those who visit, both for its artistic scale and the story it tells.

In sum, the Founders of the Bulgarian State Monument is not only an architectural marvel but also a profound reminder of Bulgaria’s complex and proud past. It remains a significant cultural landmark, deserving of greater international...