Voivode Captain Dyado Nikola

Dyado Nikola, born in 1800 in Silistra, was a Bulgarian revolutionary who played an important part in the revolutionary events of 1856 and participated in the uprising of 28 July 1856.

After settling in Wallachia and participating in the political life of Bulgarian emigrants, Dyado Nikola became one of the leaders of the Third Brăila Revolt in 1843. The revolt was prepared by Bulgarian emigrants, and although he was captured by the Romanian authorities and sentenced to fifteen years in prison, he was amnestied in 1848.

During the Crimean War (1853–1856), Dyado Nikola settled in Tarnovo as a tailor, using this as cover to begin revolutionary agitation and preparations for an uprising. Under his leadership, the uprising of 28 July 1856 began at Lyaskovets Monastery with the blessing of the monastery's brethren. Dyado Nikola led his detachment into battle towards the Gabrovo Balkan Mountains, pursued by a large force. The uprising reached its climax in the battle around Shipka Bridge, now Shivarov Bridge, in Gabrovo, where the insurgents were defeated.

On 2 August 1856 Captain Dyado Nikola died near the village of Donchovtsi after the decisive battle. He is remembered as one of the revolutionaries who fought for freedom and independence in difficult times for the Bulgarian people.