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.
October 18, 1912 — Bulgaria Crosses into Thrace
Bulgarian forces pushed deep into Thrace following their victories at Lozengrad and Lyule Burgas, pursuing the retreating Ottoman Eastern Army across the open plains toward the Catalca defensive line outside Constantinople. The speed of the Bulgarian advance was extraordinary — within two weeks of entering the war, the army had covered hundreds of kilometres and stood within striking distance of the Ottoman capital itself.
October 18, 1989 — Todor Zhivkov’s Last Days
Internal pressure within the Bulgarian Communist Party intensified against long-serving leader Todor Zhivkov, who had governed Bulgaria for 35 years. With the Berlin Wall weeks away from falling and reform movements sweeping Eastern Europe, key figures in the Party leadership were manoeuvring to remove him. Zhivkov would be ousted on November 10, 1989 — the same day the Berlin Wall fell — ending the longest tenure of any Eastern Bloc leader.
Explore more of Bulgaria’s story on Bronicable, including our Bulgaria From Above series and our guides to the best of Bulgaria.
