site.btaOctober 14, 1971: Bulgarian Communist Leader Todor Zhivkov Decrees Establishment of Veliko Tarnovo University

On October 14, 1971, State Council chair Todor Zhivkov announces the decree for the establishment of the Veliko Tarnovo University (VTU) and hands over the symbolic key to rector Prof Zhelyo Avdzhiev. The event coincides with the International Scientific Symposium dedicated to the 600th anniversary of the Tarnovo Literary School, whose legal successor is VTU.

As a higher education institution, VTU has existed since 1963, with its history divided into two periods. The first period starting in 1963, when courses were held at the newly opened Cyril and Methodius Brothers Higher Pedagogical Institute. The second period starting in 1971, when the institute is converted into a university, with the official announcement on October 14.

The University bore the name of Cyril and Methodius from 1971 to 1990. By decision of the university's general assembly on May 22, 1990, the name was changed to St. St. Cyril and Methodius.