The gold-domed Alexander Nevsky Cathedral - Built in honour to the Russian soldiers who liberated Bulgaria from Ottoman (Turk) rule

Every day in Bulgarian history holds a story worth remembering. In this recurring series, On This Day in Bulgaria, we look back at notable events, decisions, and milestones that happened on this date across the country’s history.

September 25, 1396 — Battle of Nicopolis

The Battle of Nicopolis, fought near the Bulgarian Danube fortress of Nicopol, ended in a catastrophic defeat for an allied European Crusader army led by King Sigismund of Hungary at the hands of the Ottoman Empire under Bayezid I. This defeat sealed the fate of the Second Bulgarian Empire, leading to five centuries of Ottoman rule in the Balkans.

September 25, 1918 — Tsar Ferdinand Agrees to Armistice

Faced with the military breakthrough at Dobro Pole and the advancing soldier mutiny, Tsar Ferdinand I met with political leaders in Sofia and agreed to seek an immediate armistice with the Entente. This decision initiated the peace negotiations in Salonica and led to Ferdinand’s abdication in favor of his son, Boris III, just days later.

Explore more of Bulgaria’s story on Bronicable, including our Bulgaria From Above series and our guides to the best of Bulgaria.