Freemasonry

Freemasonry in Bulgaria is an initiatory society that shares the ideas and aims of worldwide Freemasonry. As in many other parts of the world, Bulgarian Freemasonry is organised into lodges: particular associations or brotherhoods that hold regular meetings and ceremonies.

The history of Freemasonry in Bulgaria begins with the initiative of Ivan Vedar, who established a Masonic society in Ruse after Bulgaria's Liberation. He brought together several Freemasons who had been initiated abroad, including Toma Kardzhiev, Yordan Dzhumaliev, Lieutenants Varban Vinarov and Marin Marinov, Zahari Stoyanov and Aleksandar Tsanov. This circle founded Bulgaria's first Masonic lodge, called Balkan Star. The lodge was recognised by the Grand Orient of Portugal and began regular meetings on 9 March 1880.

This period saw Freemasonry establish itself in the country and introduce its traditions and values into Bulgarian society. Masonic lodges played an important part in shaping Bulgaria's intellectual and cultural environment at the time.