Buzludzha monument

Buzludzha is a concrete monument on Hadzhi Dimitar Peak at 1441 meters elevation, featuring a central circular hall and a 70-meter tower decorated with red stars. The structure resembles a flying saucer resting on the mountain ridge, with massive reinforced concrete walls that defy the terrain.

The monument was built between 1974 and 1981 to commemorate the founding of the Bulgarian Social Democratic Workers Party at this location in 1891. After socialism's decline, it was abandoned and closed to the public.

The interior displayed large mosaics featuring Bulgarian and Soviet political leaders and scenes from the country's socialist movement. These artworks conveyed political ideals that were promoted during the monument's years of operation.

Reaching the site requires a personal vehicle or participation in a guided tour, as public transportation does not service the area. Access to the structure varies depending on the season and weather conditions.

The monument attracted over two million visitors in its early years and was a popular destination for day trips from across Bulgaria. Today it stands abandoned and deteriorating, with faded colors and damaged murals, making it a haunting relic of a bygone era.

Location: Shipka

Inception: January 1, 1981

Official opening: 1981

Architectural style: brutalist architecture

Elevation above the sea: 1,441 m

Made from material: reinforced concrete

Website: https://buzludzha-monument.com

GPS coordinates: 42.73581,25.39385

Latest update: December 17, 2025 11:15