The Bulgarian–Soviet Friendship Monument: The Silent Giant of Varna

A Beast of Concrete and Granite

Construction started in 1974 and took four years to finish. This wasn’t just a statue; it was a massive political statement. Standing over 23 meters high and nearly 50 meters wide, the monument features two groups of giant figures—Soviet soldiers and Bulgarian partisans—frozen in stone.

To get to the top, you have to conquer the “Stairs of Friendship”—301 steps that definitely feel like a workout but reward you with an incredible atmosphere. Back in the day, the interior housed a museum, and at night, the whole structure was lit up by massive spotlights, making it glow like a fortress above the city.

From Glory to Ghostly Silence

After 1989, the world changed, and so did the monument’s meaning. The museum closed, the lights went out, and the “Eternal Flame” was extinguished. For years, it fell into decay—covered in graffiti and slowly reclaimed by nature.

Nowadays, the monument is completely broken. The interior is off-limits, and the entrance to the cellar and underground levels has been sealed shut. Even the famous stairs have seen better days, with many steps cracked or crumbling. But despite the neglect, the giant endures. Today, it’s less of a political symbol and more of a haunt for urban explorers, photographers, and locals looking for a quiet spot with a view.

Varna’s Favorite Outdoor Gym

Interestingly, the decay hasn’t stopped the monument from being useful. It has become a major hotspot for local athletes and fitness enthusiasts. Every morning and evening, you’ll see dozens of people using the 301 steps for their weekly exercises—running repeats, doing lunges, or stretching at the top. It’s arguably the most scenic “stairmaster” in Varna.

Local Myths and Urban Legends

You can’t have a massive, hollow concrete structure without a few stories. Here are the ones Varna locals love to tell:

• The Secret Tunnels: Legend has it the hill is hollowed out with Cold War bunkers and tunnels that lead straight to the naval base or even under the sea. While never officially proven, the heavy iron doors at the base keep the mystery alive.
• The Singing Wind: On very windy days, the air whistling through the monument’s vents and cracks creates a low, eerie hum. Locals call it the “Song of the Giant,” as if the stone itself is trying to tell its side of history.
• The Wish at the Top: A popular local superstition says that if you climb all 301 steps without stopping for a breath and whisper a wish at the feet of the soldiers, the “Stone Giants” will make it come true.

Why It’s Worth the Climb

Today, the monument is all about the “vibe.” It’s a mix of haunting history and beautiful scenery. Once you reach the top, the politics fade away, and you’re left with a breathtaking panoramic view of Varna and the Black Sea. It’s a place where the past and present collide, standing as a silent witness to the century that shaped the city we see today.

How to Visit

• By Bus: Catch Bus Line 409 (which runs from the Airport and Golden Sands). Get off at the “Stadion Varna” or “Parkmart” stop. From there, you’ll see the massive staircase across the main road.
• On Foot: If you’re near the northern end of the Sea Garden, it’s a pleasant (but uphill) walk. Follow the main boulevard (Knyaz Boris I) toward the exit of the city until you see the hill on your left.
• By Car/Taxi: Simply tell a taxi driver “Pametnika” (The Monument). There is a small parking area near the base of the stairs, or a road that leads closer to the top if you want to skip the 301-step workout.
• During our VIP Tour we’ll also pass by the monument. Make memories: find your next favorite excursion right here.