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Historical places #3 in Gorna Oryahovitsa

Monument of Mother Bulgaria

4.7 · 3,087 reviews
Solemn and reflective
Monument of Mother Bulgaria, Veliko Tarnovo Center, ul. "Tsar Todor Svetoslav" 1А, 5000 Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria
Interesting facts
1

The monument's central figure, a woman, is traditionally interpreted as a symbolic representation of the Motherland mourning her fallen sons.

2

The base of the monument contains a vault housing the remains of soldiers from the local region.

3

The memorial is designed to be viewed from all four sides, with different sculptural groups representing various military campaigns.

4

It is one of the few socialist-era monuments in Bulgaria that has retained its central status and historical significance without being relocated since the transition in 1989.

5

The eternal flame was specifically designed to be easily accessible for annual commemorations on May 9th.

Overview

The Monument of Mother Bulgaria is a prominent bronze sculptural ensemble located in the central square of Veliko Tarnovo. It commemorates the soldiers from the Veliko Tarnovo region who perished in the Serbo-Bulgarian, Balkan, First World, and Second World Wars. The structure depicts a female figure, representing Bulgaria, kneeling with a wreath over the deceased, flanked by soldiers in military attire. Created by sculptor Boris Gondov, the monument was unveiled in 1985 to mark the 40th anniversary of the end of World War II. It features an eternal flame that serves as a focal point for state ceremonies and wreath-laying events. The surrounding plaza is paved with stone and is situated at the intersection of several primary city boulevards.

Photo spot

From the street level looking slightly upward toward the female figure for a clean background without distractions.

Insider tips

Visit during the evening when the monument is illuminated, as it provides a different aesthetic than in daylight.

The surrounding square offers several benches perfect for observing local city life.

Combine your visit with a walk along the nearby pedestrian shopping street, 'Vasil Levski'.

What to avoid

Do not climb on the stone base or the sculptural elements.

Etiquette

Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor, as it is a war memorial.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
20-30 minutes
Best time to visit
Late afternoon during spring or autumn for comfortable temperatures.
Address
Monument of Mother Bulgaria, Veliko Tarnovo Center, ul. "Tsar Todor Svetoslav" 1А, 5000 Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria
43.082, 25.632
Get directions
Details
Architectural StyleSocialist Realism
MaterialsBronze and Stone

Frequently asked

Plan for about 20-30 minutes to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late afternoon during spring or autumn for comfortable temperatures..

From the street level looking slightly upward toward the female figure for a clean background without distractions.

Close by you'll find Tsarevets Fortress, Monument to the Assen Dynasty, Trapezitsa Fortress.