TUIDA

The celebration of Todorovden has passed, marked by excitement, the sound of hooves, whispers of history, beautiful weather, laughter, and amazement. The city-wide celebration "The Horses of the Bulgarians" at Tuida Fortress brought together hundreds of locals from Sliven and visitors to the city for the festivity.
On February 28, 2026, the Medieval Tuida Fortress became a stage for strength, tradition, and Bulgarian spirit. The now traditional event "The Horses of the Bulgarians" once again united both young and old around honoring the horse – the faithful companion of the Bulgarian through the centuries.
On this special day, the atmosphere at Tuida Fortress was filled with emotions, warmth, and joy. The gathered guests enjoyed demonstrations that revived our glorious historical past. Visitors had the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the magic of ancient times by getting acquainted with authentic costumes, weapons, and combat techniques from horseback. Known in popular tradition as the "Horse Easter," the celebration emphasized the role of the horse in Bulgarian history – as a symbol of freedom, dignity, and warrior honor. From the early Bulgarian horsemen to the Renaissance hajduts, the horse has been an inseparable part of our national identity. The reenactments and demonstrations showed that the historical heritage of the Bulgarian people is not only preserved but also lives among us.
Among the many activities organized, the most popular were archery and horseback riding, which brought many smiles and unforgettable memories. Children were delighted by the chance to learn these ancient skills, while their parents enjoyed the spectacular performances and the unique atmosphere of the festival.
"The Horses of the Bulgarians" is not just a holiday but a living connection between the past and the present. It reminds us of the importance of traditions and cultural heritage, which is an inseparable part of our identity.
The organizers of the event – the Regional Historical Museum "Dr. Simeon Tabakov" of Sliven and the "Madarski Konnik" School from Obzor, with the support of the Municipality of Sliven, succeeded in reviving Bulgarian traditions. Thanks to the participants and like-minded individuals, such as the Martial Arts School from Horseback "Madarski Konnik" Obzor, the Association for the Restoration and Preservation of Traditions "Avitohol" from Varna, the Warrior Arts School "Velichie" from Varna, the "Metal Archers" Association from Aytos, the Historical Reenactment Group "Iron Ravens" from Stara Zagora, and the participation of the "100 Voivodes" Equestrian Base from Sliven, the holiday gained even greater significance and conveyed the spirit of Bulgarian tradition to all those present.
Todorovden at Tuida Fortress was not only a day to honor the horse but also a shared revival of Bulgarian traditions, which remain not only part of the past but also live on in the modern world.