Town of Kyustendil marks 80 years since the rescue of Bulgarian Jews

The town of Kyustendil commemorates the 80th anniversary of the rescue of the Bulgarian Jews. Various festive events, processions and exhibitions are organised in the town. Caretaker Prime Minister, Galab Donev, also took part in the commemoration events on March 9.

In the dark years of the Second World War, when the deportation of millions of Jews began, the Kyustendil resident Dimitar Peshev, who at that time was Deputy Speaker of Bulgarian Parliament, together with four other residents of Kyustendil took the initiative to save the Bulgarian Jews. The result was that about 50,000 Bulgarian Jews were saved during the war.

Bulgaria is the only country that after the Second World War had more Jewish citizens within its borders than before.

In Kyustendil today there are many celebrations and processions. An exhibition "Kyustendil artists of Jewish origin" will be opened.

Politicians, public figures and members of the public joined in the celebrations. Wreaths and flowers were laid at the monument to Dimitar Peshev in the centre of Kyustendil. Caretaker Prime Minister, Galab Donev, also arrived in the city to attend the events.

Images by BGNES

The Prime Minister said that Dimitar Peshev and his deed were a worthy example of humanity - an example that we should follow today. The celebrations in Kyustendil continue throughout the day.