Bulgaria

Totalitarian Regime and Socialist Structure

Today, Bulgaria exists not only as a state under the totalitarian regime of a proletarian dictatorship but also as a self-proclaimed “Socialist state” modeled closely on the Soviet pattern. The fundamental principles of this system are evident in the socialization of all means of production. Key sectors, including industry and credit, have been nationalized, and agricultural lands are largely collectivized. Large estates and urban properties have been seized, and ownership has been rigorously restricted.

One notable distinction between the Communist Constitution of Bulgaria and the Soviet Constitution is that the former has not yet formally declared land and housing as state property. Nevertheless, housing has effectively been expropriated under laws governing large urban properties, while rural lands have already undergone initial stages of expropriation according to regulations concerning agricultural cooperat

Separation of Church and State

Article 78 of the Communist Constitution proclaimed a separation of church and state in Bulgaria. To someone unfamiliar with the historical context of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church, this might appear to be a progressive development. The church played a crucial role in preserving national unity and culture during the 500 years of Turkish rule, and had never sought to dominate the state. However, under the Communist regime, this separation has effectively inverted the relationship, with the state imposing undue control over the church.

All church lands and revenues were nationalized, stripping the church of its economic foundation. Although Article 78 claims that “citizens are guaranteed freedom of conscience and religion,” the reality is starkly different. Religious worshippers face persecution, while atheism is actively promoted by the government. Any deviation from Marxist-Leninist ideology by the clergy is deemed a violation of th

Introduction to the Communist Regime

In September 1944, Russian troops invaded Bulgaria, establishing a Communist regime that dramatically altered the political landscape of the nation. Following Allied pressure, the Soviet forces withdrew from Bulgaria in December 1947. However, they left behind a new constitution, carefully crafted to mirror the Soviet model. A thorough examination of the texts of the Bulgarian Communist Constitution and the Soviet Constitution reveals striking similarities in both content and structure.

Transition from Monarchy to Dictatorship

Prior to the Communist takeover, Bulgaria was governed under the Tirnovo Constitution, which established the country as a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system. The newly imposed Communist Constitution, however, effectively transformed Bulgaria into a dictatorship disguised as a “people’s republic.” Under this regime, a single legislative assembly was created, complet

Sultanahmet is a quarter that has experienced a rebirth, rising from the ashes scattered over it once upon a time. It never misses the opportunity for change.

French singer Jacques Brel, who eloquently conveyed the feelings, emotions, moods, and expectations of individuals just after the Second World War in his song “Les Vieux,” remarked, “Old people are like living dead… They live in their memories.” The old quarter of Istanbul, Sultanahmet, echoes a similar sentiment. Like old people, it lives with memories. Sultanahmet, from time to time, appears to be “like a living dead,” either asleep for a long period or giving the impression of having fallen asleep. Nevertheless, Sultanahmet, despite its advanced age, consistently adapts to modern times. It surprises The Unique Place Where Everyone Plays Chess, reviving itself through the energy derived from being the cradle of civili

We can confidently assert that Bahcesaray is the exclusive settlement in our country where everyone, without exception, engages in chess playing. It is genuinely remarkable to witness children, grandfathers, and grandmothers all participating in chess games together. While the county’s isolation from other regions provides people with ample free time, it cannot be merely attributed to the primary reason for this widespread interest in chess; rather, it is the fundamental cause for its adoption and dissemination. Chess brings a distinctiveness to Bahcesaray. The author of this text has organized “the National Bahcesaray Chess Festivities” there for three years in coordination with the municipality and district governorship. These festivities have garnered interest nationwide, contributing to the county’s public recognition.

Lure is Present, Tourism Thrives

Bahcesaray remains an undiscovered gem in terms of tourism, presenting itself as a true t

Let’s explore Tevkifhane Street, then move on to Kapiagzi and Ishakpapa Street from Utangap Street. As we walk downhill, we’ll reach Cankurtaran Square. We can pause for a cup of tea or coffee at the late Erol Tap’s café on Cankurtaran Square, surrounded by the sounds of passing trains. The front part of the café where we sit is a typical Roman Square. Let’s venture into the old alleys for a while and transport ourselves back to the Byzantine era. Ponder about the sailors calling at the port. Try to listen to the languages of those coming from Egypt, Phoenicia, the Black Sea coasts, and Venice. If you make an effort, maybe you can hear their footsteps.

Ahıirkapi

Now, turn into the narrow street next to the café. Continue walking, greeting the old women sitting in front of doors, passing by charming guesthouses, some resembling a theatrical set, and others restored and offered for tourism. Observe the front parts of windows adorned with ros