Nikolay

Bulgarians across the country observed the Day of Saint Nicholas on December 6, known as Nikulden, commemorating the revered figure of St. Nicholas of Myra. Originating from Patara in Asia Minor in the 3rd century, St. Nicholas led a pious life, aiding the destitute and weak while embodying the principles of faith and truth.

On this day in Plovdiv, the Unification of Bulgaria was announced, the dedication of Zahari Stoyanov was read, the flag of Eastern Rumelia was taken down and the Bulgarian flag was raised.

Thousands of Bulgarians have a name day today, sailors and bankers celebrate as well, the Church honors St. Nicholas the Miracle Worker of Myra. St. Nicholas Day is also the day of the Bulgarian city Burgas.

The name means "winner", name day celebrate people with the names: Nikola, Nikolay, Nikolina, Nikoleta, Nina, Kolyo and their derivatives.

Viktoria and Aleksandar were the most popular names for newborn babies in Bulgaria in 2019, according to data of the National Statistical Institute. Some 732 baby girls were given the most popular name in 2019. The second most desired name was Maria - 680, followed by Nikol - 596. The newborn boys in 2019, who were named Aleksandar, were 1,036.

According to preliminary figures of the National Statistical Institute (NSI) released on Tuesday, Georgi and Maria continued to be most common Bulgarian names in 2015.

At the end of 2015, there were nearly 69 000 different personal names of people permanently residing in Bulgaria.

The cabinet approved on Wednesday a draft document to upgrade the Bulgarian Armed Forces' capabilities.

A statement by the government reads that the so-called Program for Development of Defense Capabilities of the Bulgarian Armed Forces 2020 will be submitted to Parliament for consideration.

Lukashenko begins official visit to Serbia

BELGRADE -- Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko laid a wreath at the Monument to the Unknown Hero on Mt. Avala near Belgrade late on Wednesday.

BELGRADE - Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko laid a wreath at the Monument to the Unknown Hero in Avala near Belgrade late on Wednesday.

Accompanied by the intonation of the national anthems of Belarus and Serbia, Lukashenko honoured the Serb soldiers who did not hesitate to sacrifice their lives for freedom and a peaceful and dignified future for the coming generations.

The Holy Fire, which is ignited every year at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, is to be brought to Bulgaria at 6.30 pm on Holy Saturday.

The official clergy delegation is headed by Plovdiv metropolitan bishop Nikolay, who was elected to deliver the Holy Fire by the Holy Synod again this year.