Revolutionary Nikola Voynovski

Nikola Donchov Voynovski (1849–1876) was a Bulgarian military leader and participant in the national liberation movement, known as voivode of Botev's detachment.

He was born on 9 November 1849 in Gabrovo into the family of Doncho Stoyanov. Voynovski participated in the Hadzhi Stavri Revolt in 1862 and then emigrated to Galați, Romania, to escape Turkish persecution. In Galați he opened a café, which became a centre for the Bulgarian patriotic emigrant community.

In 1865, Nikola Voynovski completed the third form and continued his education in Galați, where he learnt several languages. Later he studied in Odesa and graduated from the military infantry school in Mykolaiv in 1876.

In the autumn of 1875, Voynovski met Hristo Botev in Galați and joined preparations for Botev's detachment. In April 1876 he left for Bucharest, where he actively participated in organising it. Voynovski played a key role in taking control of the Austrian ship "Radetzky", which was accomplished with impeccable order and discipline.

After the detachment landed at Kozloduy, Voivode Hristo Botev formally introduced him as its military commander. Voynovski led the detachment in the battle in the Vratsa Balkan Mountains on 20 May 1876, saving it from defeat through brilliant military skill.

After Botev's death, Voynovski was elected voivode of the detachment. Under his leadership they fought their last battle near the village of Lyutibrod. Nikola Voynovski was killed on 15 June 1876 after being mortally wounded in the chest. In his final moments he raised his comrades' morale, saying: "Hold on, lads!" His head was cut off by the Turkish authorities and sent to Troyan. The remaining members of the detachment were captured three days later after being betrayed by Bulgarians in the village of Shipkovo.

A monument to Nikola Voynovski stands in the village of Chiflik, Troyan Municipality, commemorating his feat and participation in the historic struggle for Bulgaria's liberation.