Buzludzha monument

About

In the 1970s, the Communist regime decided to erect a massive, characteristically Brutalist, monument dedicated to socialism, and the Bulgarian victory over the Turks at Shipka Pass in 1868. Built by the army with assistance from many artisans, the concrete arena, watched over by images of Lenin and Marx, was meant to host state functions and celebrations. After the fall of Communism in 1989, the site was abandoned, and fell prey vandals. Covered with graffiti, such as ‘Communism’ written as the Coca-Cola logo, this unusual site provides visitors with views of the stunning surroundings, socialist symbolism, and the political aftermath. Please note: it is illegal to enter the building, and is often under guard.