An initiative committee of prominent public figures is proposing to erect a monument to Khan Asparuh in place of the Monument to the Soviet Army. The idea is for the new monument to unite society, not divide it. Talks are underway with Mayor Vasil Terziev and Sofia Regional Governor Stefan Arsov to consider possible ideas for the artistic design of the monument, as well as financing the project, BNT reported.
The area around the dismantled monument to the Soviet Army has been deserted for two years. After the removal of the statues in the highest part, the space around the monument is fenced off, and weeds are growing behind the metal fences. The bronze sculptors in the lower part have not yet been removed.
"It would be better if there was something to replace this gap that sits in this ugly way."
"I heard they want to make Asparuh in his place! "Well, I agree," the citizens commented.
The idea of the initiative committee is to erect a symbol of the strength and independence of the people - namely Khan Asparuh.
Pressian Petrov: "I think it is a disgrace in the capital of the state not to have a monument to the founder of this state, it depersonalizes the people."
Academician Georgi Markov, chairman of the initiative committee: "We should have such a monument and it should unite, not a monument to an army that is not a liberator."
The initiative committee is against the idea of building an amusement park with food and drink pavilions on the site, but they welcome the idea of having a sports field or skate park.
And currently, the largest outdoor ice rink in the Balkans is being built in the space in front of the monument.