site.btaBulgaria Marks 176th Anniversary of Poet and Revolutionary Hristo Botev's Birth

Bulgaria is marking the 176th anniversary of the birth of poet and revolutionary Hristo Botev (1848-1876) on Saturday. Hundreds of people gathered for a national event in Botev's native town of Kalofer. It was attended by Culture Minister Krastyu Krastev, Education and Science Minister Galin Tzokov, senior military officers, mayors and MPs.

In his address, Kalofer Mayor said Botev was a fiery personality, a blend of opposites.

The Culture Minister noted the poet's amazing sense of foresight. Botev's visionary views and love for the Bulgarian soul command deep respect, Krastev said.

The Education Minister recalled Botev's years as a teacher. The Bulgarian school was a sacred place to him, Tzokov said, adding that teachers should be motivated and innovative like Botev. The Minister said today's 28-year-old teachers should be supported to become leaders in education.

The official guests also laid flowers at the monument to the poet's mother, Ivanka Boteva. Later on a representative company from the 61st Stryama Mechanized Brigade laid a garland of glory at the Hristo Botev Memorial Complex.

People gathered at monuments to Botev across the country to pay homage.