Timeline of Bulgaria

Chronology

35 events spanning the history of Bulgaria. BCE/CE dating.

1. 630

   First federation of Bulgar tribes formed.

   First federation of Bulgar tribes formed.

2. 681

   Byzantine Empire recognizes first Bulgarian state.

   Byzantine Empire recognizes first Bulgarian state.

3. 811

   First Bulgarian Empire defeats Byzantine Empire, begins expanding.

   First Bulgarian Empire defeats Byzantine Empire, begins expanding.

4. 870

   Tsar Boris I accepts Christianity (Eastern Rite Orthodox) for Bulgaria.

   Tsar Boris I accepts Christianity (Eastern Rite Orthodox) for Bulgaria.

5. 924

   Simeon defeated by Byzantines; first empire begins decline.

   Simeon defeated by Byzantines; first empire begins decline.

6. 1018 – 1185

   Bulgaria is part of Byzantine empire.

   Bulgaria is part of Byzantine empire.

7. 1202

   Tsar Kaloian makes peace with Byzantine Empire

   Tsar Kaloian makes peace with Byzantine Empire, achieves full independence, and begins Second Bulgarian Empire.

8. 1218 – 1241

   Reign of Ivan Asen II, second golden age of Bulgaria and period of territorial expansion.

   Reign of Ivan Asen II, second golden age of Bulgaria and period of territorial expansion.

9. 1385

   Sofia captured by Ottoman Empire.

   Sofia captured by Ottoman Empire.

10. 1389

    Turks defeat Serbs at Kosovo Polje, exposing remaining Bulgarian territory to Ottoman occupation.

    Turks defeat Serbs at Kosovo Polje, exposing remaining Bulgarian territory to Ottoman occupation.