Ivan Vazov Grave, Sofia

Ivan Vazov, often referred to as the "father of Bulgarian literature," expressed his wish to be laid to rest in the park situated behind Saint Sofia Church. His funeral marked a significant national event, drawing a massive procession and evoking a sense of collective mourning. Since 1921, his gravesite has remained undisturbed, adorned with a lush carpet of flowers.

Ivan Vazov (1850-1921) holds the esteemed title of the patriarch of Bulgarian literature, having produced an extensive body of work encompassing 22 volumes of writings that vividly depict the struggles and passions of the Bulgarian people.

In the aftermath of World War I, Bulgaria endured the loss of half its population and territory. On the day the peace treaty was signed, the citizens of Sofia flocked to the poet's residence. They sang a somber dirge: "You have departed, moving to a different realm." Ivan Vazov appeared on his balcony and shared the grief of his compatriots. This balcony still stands today at the intersection of "Ivan Vazov" and "Georgi S. Rakovski" streets.

Ivan Vazov found his final resting place in a sacred location in the heart of Sofia. The concept for his tombstone was conceived by the renowned Bulgarian sculptor Ivan Lazarov, and its execution was no small feat. The colossal stone, selected by the sculptor, weighs a staggering 10 tons and was sourced from the base of Vitosha Mountain. Three oxen, harnessed to a specially crafted cart, laboriously transported this massive stone for a duration of 18 days. The citizens of Sofia greeted them with jubilant cheers of "Hura!"