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.
August 29, 1877 — Militia on the Perimeter
Bulgarian militia units guarding the outer ring around Pleven repelled Ottoman cavalry probes attempting to break through the encirclement and reach Osman Pasha’s trapped garrison. Their success in holding the perimeter allowed Russian engineers to continue building the siege works that would eventually force the Ottoman surrender in December 1877 — one of the pivotal moments of the entire Russo-Turkish War.
August 29, 1991 — Restitution Law Adopted
Bulgaria’s National Assembly voted to restore properties seized by the communist regime after 1944 to their former owners, churches, and cultural institutions. The restitution law was among the most important pieces of post-communist legislation, addressing decades of state-directed confiscation and beginning a long process of reckoning with the communist period’s economic legacy.
Explore more of Bulgaria’s story on Bronicable, including our Bulgaria From Above series and our guides to the best of Bulgaria.
