Voivode Altanla Stoyan

Altanla Stoyan, born around 1767 in Kotel, Bulgaria, was a Bulgarian hajduk and voivode who played a significant role in the struggle for freedom and liberation from Turkish rule during the Ottoman Empire.

He is described as a brave and daring leader, beloved by the poor, who opposed Turkish authority and performed numerous exploits. Altanla Stoyan led a band of 18–20 men and robbed the imperial treasury three times. He freed slaves, killed senior Turkish officials and even killed Kula Kalauzin, the leader of the Turkish pursuit parties.

In 1800, Altanla Stoyan defended Kotel against attacks by Indzhe and Kara Feyz. Later, in 1828, he robbed the imperial treasury in the Chalakavashki Pass, clashing with Turkish Circassians who were transporting slaves. Two members of his band were killed in this conflict, and Altanla Stoyan himself was seriously wounded. Although he disbanded his group on condition that he be summoned again, he died from his severe wounds.

Altanla Stoyan was carried to Kotel and died in the home of Danail Karayankov. His exploits became the subject of legends and songs celebrating him as a national hero. He symbolises bravery, freedom and resistance to the Turkish advance in Bulgaria.