Liberation of Bulgaria

The Jubilee Medal for the 100th Anniversary of the Liberation of Bulgaria from Ottoman Rule (1878–1978) is an award instituted in 1978 by the then People's Republic of Bulgaria. The medal commemorates the centenary of the Treaty of San Stefano, which brought an end to nearly five centuries of Ottoman rule.

Key features

• Design (Front): Displays an image of bayonets breaking a chain, symbolizing the end of "Ottoman slavery", with the year 1878.
• Design (Back): Features the Bulgarian national coat of arms (a rampant lion) and the inscription: "100 Years of Liberation of Bulgaria from Ottoman Slavery, 03/03/1878 – 03/03/1978".
• Material: Usually struck from a gold-colored bronze alloy (brass) with a diameter of approximately 32–34 mm.
• Ribbon: A pentagonal holder covered with a green-yellow striped ribbon.

Award

• The medal was awarded to:Persons recognized for their patriotism or military merits related to Bulgarian defense.

Historical significance

The medal commemorates the Russo-Turkish War (1877–1878), which led to the restoration of the Bulgarian state. The date on the medal, March 3, is still Bulgaria's National Liberation Day.