On August 30, during the national commemoration of the 148th anniversary of the Battle of Shipka Pass, the exhibition "The Long Journey of the National Anthem" will open near the Monument of Freedom on Mount Shipka. At this historic site, where a century and a half ago the fate of Bulgarian freedom was decided, a lesser-known story comes to life — that of Bulgaria’s national anthem, reported BTA.

• 130 years since the Battle for Shipka Pass

The exhibition features 16 panels showcasing rare photographs, documents, lyrics, musical scores, postcards and other materials which trace the evolution of Bulgaria's national anthems. It also features bulletins from the archives of the Bulgarian News Agency (BTA) that capture memorable moments related to our statehood. The exhibition will remain open until September 8 — a date of special significance, marking 61 years since "Mila Rodino/Dear Motherland" was officially declared the national anthem of the Republic of Bulgaria, reminds Denitsa Rahneva, curator and author of the exhibition.

The anniversary commemoration of the Shipka Epopee is held under the auspices of the President of the Republic of Bulgaria and brings together institutions, public organizations and guests from across the country. Every year, this event becomes a tribute to the heroes and a celebration of freedom that reminds us why symbols like the national anthem and the national flag are so important to Bulgarians.

Published and translated by Kostadin Atanasov

Photos: Shipka-Buzludzha National Park-Museum; BNR-archive