Pazardjik is the Invisible Backbone of the Revolution, Says Mayor Petar Kulenski

Our city plays an important role in the internal revolutionary network connected with Vasil Levski, pointed out the mayor of Pazardjik, Petar Kulenski. Although Pazardjik did not participate openly in the 1876 uprising, the city has left its significant mark on history through the local Bulgarian community, active since the early 1870s.

Kulenski emphasized that the participation of local activists included hiding weapons, courier activities, and maintaining contacts with centers like Panagyurishte. He added that despite its lower visibility, the role of Pazardjik as part of the revolutionary network is essential for the preparation of the national liberation movement.

The mayor stresses that the city is an example of how a community can take part in the struggle quietly and at risk, by hiding weapons and communication, which were vital for the success of the uprising.

After the defeat of the uprising, a less visible form of support emerged in Pazardjik and its surroundings – hiding and assisting refugees from areas such as Batak and Perushtitsa. They sought shelter, food, and help, which is also preserved in stories and regional studies.

Kulenski recalled that it is especially important to popularize this solidarity through educational initiatives and the collection of local stories to preserve historical memory and values such as empathy.

The city also played a key role in the route of international observers like Jan Yariah McGahan and Eugene Squier, who contributed to uncovering the truth about the events around the April Uprising through their testimonies. According to him, this can be promoted more actively through cultural initiatives and routes.

Kulenski commented that Pazardjik also contributed to revealing the truth about these events, as the city is part of the route of important world witnesses. This potential can be exploited through exhibitions and thematic programs that enrich the cultural profile of the city.

Regarding environmental policies, Kulenski noted that Pazardjik achieves good results in waste management and recycling due to consistent policies, investments, and citizen participation.

The municipality established a company called “Cleanliness,” which improves organization and quality of cleaning. Future plans include modernization and the introduction of smarter solutions for waste reduction and recycling.

In the field of digitization, Kulenski highlighted that the development of electronic services is a priority, which makes life easier for citizens and improves administration. Online platforms and systems for kindergarten admissions have been expanded, indicating future development directions.

The municipality supports an active cultural and sports life – through funding, infrastructure, and partnerships. The project “PазARTджик” further developed the cultural offerings, and the project “Talented Generation” encourages the development of young talents through training, competitions, and scholarships.

In recent weeks, the city's first fully renovated residential block was inaugurated, and more than ten projects aimed at improving the housing stock continue. Progress has been noted in the renovation program, with the main goal being faster and more mass adoption by citizens and improving their quality of life.

All these efforts demonstrate Pazardjik's clear strategy for sustainable development and modernization, aiming for the city to become even more lively and attractive for living and working.

Source: Стандарт нюз