Revolutioneer, a fighter for independence, Vasil Levski is the most celebrated figure throughout Bulgarian history. For his short life (1837-1873), he has achieved more in fortifying the national spirit among Bulgarians, than his predecessors have for the previous several centuries. During his journeys all over the country, he has established an extensive revolutionary network to fight against the Ottoman Empire, consisting of more than 400 committees.

     But he was caught. In the winter of 1872-1873, he was held prisoner in Sofia. He was executed on February 19, 1873, at the small square on the eastern outskirts of Sofia’s modern center. At that place, a monument was erected to commemorate the deeds of the Apostle of Liberty – as Bulgarians call their national hero.