Burgas history

The history of Burgas, one of the key cities on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast, is rooted in deep antiquity. The modern city grew on the site of ancient settlements, absorbing the heritage of various eras and cultures.

Foundation and First Mentions

Although traces of human activity in this region date back to the Bronze Age, the predecessor of modern Burgas is considered to be a small fortress and observation point called Pyrgos (Πύργος), which translates from Greek as "tower". It is believed to have been founded by Greeks from neighbouring Apollonia (present-day Sozopol) to protect their trade routes. Later, the Latin form of this name, "Burgos", gave the modern city its name. The first written records of Burgas as a significant settlement date back to the 17th century, when it began to develop as a port and trade hub within the Ottoman Empire.

Key Factors of Formation

Burgas owes its growth and development to several key factors:

• Geographical Location: The city is situated at the westernmost point of the deep Burgas Bay, which created ideal conditions for the construction of a natural and well-protected port.
• Trade: Beginning in the 18th century, Burgas became an important port for the export of grain and other goods. The construction of the modern port in 1903 finally cemented the city's status as the main maritime gateway of southern Bulgaria.
• Political Development: After the liberation of Bulgaria in the late 19th century, Burgas experienced rapid growth. It quickly transformed from a small town into a major administrative, industrial, and cultural centre of the region.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

In the 18th and 19th centuries, Burgas was a typical port city with a multi-ethnic population, where Bulgarians, Greeks, Turks, and Armenians lived side by side. The economy was entirely focused around the sea: fishing, shipping, and trade flourished. After Bulgaria gained independence, the city began to be actively built up; industrial enterprises, banks, and educational institutions appeared, shaping its modern European appearance.

Chronology of Burgas Development

The history of Burgas is a journey from a small fishing village to one of the largest cities and the main maritime gateway of Bulgaria. Key events reflect its strategic importance and dynamic development over the centuries.

• 4th century BC — Thracian settlements flourish in the region, leaving behind numerous archaeological finds.
• 1st-2nd centuries AD — During the Roman Empire era, the settlement of Deultum existed on the site of modern Burgas, and a watchtower was used for navigation, from the Latin name of which (Burgos) the city likely received its name.
• 17th century — The first clear mentions of the settlement of Burgas in Ottoman documents describe it as a small port town.
• 18th century — Burgas becomes noticeable on European maps as an important port settlement south of the Balkan Mountains, playing a key role in maritime trade.
• 6 February 1878 — The city is liberated during the Russo-Turkish War by troops under the command of Colonel Lermontov.
• 1888 — The city public library opens, marking an important step in the cultural development of Burgas.
• 18 May 1903 — The modern sea port is officially opened, built with the participation of French engineers, giving a powerful boost to the city's economic growth.
• 1925 — The Historical Museum is founded, which today houses a rich archaeological collection of the region.
• 1927 — The history of aviation in Burgas begins with the construction of the first airfield.
• 1947 — Burgas Airport begins serving regular domestic flights, connecting the city with Sofia and Plovdiv.
• 1970 — The airport receives international status, facilitating the transformation of the region into a major tourist centre.
• 1991 — Burgas Free University is founded, becoming one of the leading higher education institutions in southeastern Bulgaria.

Key Milestones in the History of Burgas

The development of Burgas is the story of a small settlement transforming into a strategically important economic, transport, and cultural centre of Bulgaria. The main stages of its growth were driven by both its geographical location and key historical events.

• Construction of the Modern Port (1903): The official opening of the port, built with the participation of French specialists, was a turning point in the city's history. This event turned Burgas into the main maritime gateway of Southern Bulgaria, providing a powerful impulse to trade and industrial development.
• Railway Construction (1890): Connecting Burgas to Sofia by a railway line significantly strengthened its economic position. This allowed for fast and efficient transportation of goods from the country's interior regions to the sea and back, promoting export growth.
• Industrial Development (Early 20th Century): Following the construction of the port and railway, the first large industrial enterprises began to appear in the city. Flour mills, creameries, and sugar factories were founded, laying the foundation for Burgas's industrial potential.
• Establishment of the Petrochemical Combine (1963): The construction of the "Neftochim" refinery (today "Lukoil Neftohim Burgas") turned the city into the largest centre for oil refining and chemical industry in the Balkans. This event radically changed the economic landscape of the region and created thousands of jobs.
• Transformation into an International Tourist Centre (from the 1970s): The airport receiving international status in 1970 opened Burgas and the surrounding resorts to foreign tourists. This kickstarted the rapid development of tourism infrastructure and made tourism one of the key sectors of the city's economy.
• Creation of the Sea Garden: The establishment and gradual expansion of the Sea Garden (Seaside Park) became a crucial urban planning project. Today, it is not only a favourite recreational spot for residents and tourists but also a cultural hub featuring a summer theatre, the historic Casino building, and numerous monuments.
• Founding of Burgas Free University (1991): The emergence of a major university strengthened the status of Burgas as an educational and cultural centre of southeastern Bulgaria. The university attracts young people and contributes to the development of the city's intellectual potential.
• Infrastructure Modernisation (21st Century): In recent decades, the city has been actively renewing itself: central streets and squares are being reconstructed, and new sports facilities, bicycle paths, and a modern Expo Centre are being built. This improves the quality of life and makes Burgas more attractive to residents, tourists, and investors.

The architectural appearance of Burgas, unlike many ancient European cities, was formed relatively recently. Its rapid urban development began after the Liberation of Bulgaria in the late 19th century, which defined the dominant styles and layout of the central part.

Post-Liberation Period (Late 19th – Early 20th Century)

This time became the "golden age" for Burgas architecture. The city grew rapidly as a major port and trade centre, attracting wealthy citizens and European architects. The main styles of this period were Neoclassicism, Secession (the local name for Art Nouveau), and Eclecticism with elements of Neo-Baroque. It was then that the modern grid of central streets, such as "Aleksandrovska" and "Bogoridi", was laid out. Many iconic buildings constructed during this period still adorn the city. Among them, the following stand out:

• Historical Museum Building: A vivid example of early 20th-century architecture, combining several styles.
• Hatev House: One of the most beautiful buildings in the city, built in 1902, presumably designed by the Italian architect Ricardo Toscani. Its appearance reflects Western European influence with Rococo elements in the interior.
• Central Railway Station Building (1903): One of the first railway stations in Bulgaria, declared an architectural monument.

Socialist Period (Mid-20th Century)

After the Second World War, the city's architectural development followed the path of Socialist Modernism and Functionalism. The main task was resolving the housing issue, which led to the mass construction of large residential complexes (districts) with panel buildings. Thus appeared districts like "Slaveykov", "Izgrev", and "Meden Rudnik", which significantly expanded the city's territory and today constitute its main residential area. During this period, iconic public buildings were also constructed, such as the Puppet Theatre.

Modern Stage (Late 20th – 21st Century)

From the end of the 20th century to the present day, a new wave of construction activity has been observed in Burgas. The architecture of this period is diverse: from Postmodernism to modern glass and concrete structures. Active restoration of historical buildings in the centre is underway, returning them to their former glory. Parallel to this, new business centres, modern residential complexes, and public spaces are being built. Bright examples of modern architecture and urban planning include the renovated Sea Port area, now open to the public, and the "Flora" Exhibition Centre.

Notable Figures of Burgas

Burgas has gifted Bulgaria and the world with many talented figures in art, science, and public life. Their names are inextricably linked with the history and culture of the city.

• Priest Georgi Stoyadjev (1790–1869) – Clergyman and enlightener. Considered one of the key figures of the Bulgarian National Revival in the region. He founded the first Bulgarian school in Burgas, laying the foundations for secular education and contributing to the strengthening of national self-awareness.
• Apostol Karamitev (1923–1973) – One of the most popular and beloved Bulgarian theatre and film actors of the 20th century. Born in Burgas, he made a brilliant career at the Ivan Vazov National Theatre and starred in iconic Bulgarian films, becoming an idol for several generations.
• Georgi Kaloyanchev (1925–2012) – A great Bulgarian comic and dramatic actor. A native of Burgas, he became one of the founders and leading actors of the Satirical Theatre in Sofia. His roles in cinema, especially the character of Bay Ganyo, brought him nationwide love and recognition.
• Raina Kabaivanska (born 1934) – World-renowned opera singer (soprano). Born in Burgas, she made a phenomenal career on the stages of the greatest opera houses in the world, including La Scala in Milan and the Metropolitan Opera in New York. Recognized as one of the greatest performers of roles in the operas of Puccini and Verdi.
• Hristo Fotev (1934–2002) – An outstanding poet whose work is inextricably linked with the sea and Burgas. His lyrical works are considered the pinnacle of 20th-century Bulgarian poetry. Fotev was an iconic figure for the city's creative circles and largely defined its poetic spirit.
• Georgi Baev (1924–2007) – A famous Bulgarian marine painter. His paintings dedicated to the sea are distinguished by a unique style and expression. Baev received international recognition, including the prestigious Herder Prize, and is considered one of the classics of Bulgarian painting.
• Petya Dubarova (1962–1979) – A talented poetess who became a symbol of youth and creative impulse. Despite a tragically short life, she left a bright mark on Bulgarian literature. Her home in Burgas has been turned into a museum, and her poetry, permeated with love for the sea and life, continues to inspire readers.