Pleven History, Bulgaria

Pleven is the seventh most heavily populated city in Bulgaria and the administrative capital of the province and the municipality of Pleven. Although this city is not as popular as other Bulgarian cities such as Sofia and Varna, it still has a rewarding history, which is significant in shaping Pleven to the city it is today.

Pleven History – Ancient Epoch

Similar to other Bulgarian cities, the earliest settlement noted in Pleven History dates back to the 5th millennium BC or most commonly known as the Neolithic Age. Archaeologists have found evidences of the inhabitants who lived in the area during that time.

Another notable tribe, the Thracians, was proven to have inhabited the city for more than 1,000 years. The traces of this people’s rich culture had been discovered.

It is also worth noting that at the beginning of the new period, the Romans occupied the region and made it a part of the province of Moesia. The city was made into a fortress. In the 4th century AD, a Christian basilica was built in Pleven and is now considered as one of the most precious monuments in the country.

Pleven History – Medieval Period

Pleven became a strong fortress during the time of the First and Second Bulgarian Empire in the Medieval Period. It was the Slavs who gave the city the name “Pleven” when they inhabited the area. The name of the city was first stated in a 1270 charter written by King Stephen V of Hungary.

Pleven History – Ottoman Occupation

Although the Ottomans conquered Pleven for centuries, the city upheld its Bulgarian look and culture. During the time of the Bulgarian National Revival, numerous institutions and infrastructures such as bridges, churches and school were constructed. In 1869, Vasil Levski, a national hero, founded the first revolutionary committee in Pleven.

Pleven History – Siege of Pleven

During the Russo-Turkish War between 1877 and 1878, Pleven became the most important battle site. Alexander II, the Russian Tsar aimed to liberate Bulgaria from the Ottomans that is why the joint forces of the Russian and Romanian armies went to war against the Ottoman Empire. The war that happened in Pleven is said to be the most crucial in the liberation of the country and is recollected as the milestone victory versus the Ottomans. Finally in 1888, Pleven and the rest of Bulgaria gained independence.

Pleven History – Recent Events

After the liberation of Bulgaria, Pleven experienced a significant development and growth. It evolved into one of the chief cities in the northern part of the country. The culture and economic progress of Pleven continued for years and the city became established as a center for culture in the region.

Today, the city of Pleven is a main center for economy in the northwestern and central northern parts of Bulgaria. Pleven History continues to be recorded to provide significant facts in the whole of Europe.