Stefan Karadzha

The Stefan Karadzha monument is situated in the heart of Varna, adjacent to the entrance of the Sea Garden. The bust was created by the artist Kiril Todorov. Constructed in 1940 by the Dobrudzha Women’s Cultural and Educational Society with assistance from the Varna City Municipality.

Stefan Karadzha (11 May 1840 – 31 July 1868) was a Bulgarian revolutionary associated with the national liberation struggle and served as a cheta leader. He endeavored to initiate an insurrection against the Ottoman Empire.
He was born Stefan Todorov Dimov in the town of Ichme (now Stefan Karadzhovo), near Yambol in Rumelia, and was allegedly a descendant of Momchil Voyvoda. Karadzha pursued his studies in Tulcea, Dobruja, but discontinued his education because to insufficient financial resources. At a wedding ceremony, he triumphed over the renowned Turkish wrestler Gaazi Plisa. After going into hiding due to a search by Ottoman officials, he subsequently escaped to the Principality of Romania and later joined the First Bulgarian Legion in Belgrade, Principality of Serbia.

Karadzha across the Danube from Wallachia multiple times to execute revolutionary missions. In 1867, he enlisted in the Second Bulgarian Legion, which he abandoned the subsequent year before returning to Romania, where he conferred with Hadzhi Dimitar. On 6 June, they each commanded a force of 129 individuals and traversed the Danube at Vardim, near Svishtov. Their committee was intended to reach Stara Planina and create a revolutionary administration that would then incite a broad revolt among all Bulgarians. However, this was not to transpire, as the gang was soon detected by Turkish forces after traversing the river. Stefan Karadzha sustained severe injuries during the confrontation at Kanladere near Vishovgrad and was apprehended by the military and police dispatched by the head of the State Council, Midhat Pasha. Subsequently, on 12 July, he was conveyed to Tarnovo, and thereafter to Rousse.

Karadzha stood gravely injured before the emergency Turkish court convened by Midhat Pasha, known as the criminal council, and was sentenced to death by hanging; however, he succumbed to his injuries prior to the execution. Tonka Obretenova interred him and saved his skull.