Since 1994, a life-sized sculpture of Kanchev, situated on "Slavyanska" Street, depicts him holding a revolver, symbolizing his unwavering commitment to the cause. Born around 1850 in Tryavna, he was educated in Ruse under mentors like Petko Slaveykov and Dragan Tsankov. A key figure in the national revolutionary movement, Kanchev took on organizational tasks for Vasil Levski in the Bulgarian Revolutionary Central Committee in Bucharest. Tragically, on March 5, 1872, facing Ottoman capture, he defiantly chose to end his own life in Ruse. His last words, "LONG LIVE BULGARIA," resonate through history. The enduring monument, adjacent to his sacrifice site, stands as a testament to his steadfast dedication. Today, Kanchev's former residence is a museum, preserving the legacy of a man who gave everything for Bulgaria's independence.

In November 2023, on my journey to Ukraine, I passed through Ruse, Bulgaria—a northern border town adjacent to Romania. As the fifth-largest city in Bulgaria, Ruse sits in the northeastern region, on the right bank of the Danube River, opposite Giurgiu, Romania. Impressively positioned, it's approximately 67 km south of Bucharest, 172 km from Varna, and 249 km from Sofia. Choosing to spend the night, I took the opportunity to explore Ruse's picturesque Danube riverfront the next morning. My camera captured scenes of the city's streets, buildings, and the daily rhythms of its inhabitants, from people heading to work and students on their way to school to elderly women tending to cats in the early hours.

Explore this Vintage Ruse gallery, featuring glimpses of historic residential houses, classic telephone booths, and an ironically named very old mosque known as the New Mosque.

While staying overnight in Ruse, the Bulgarian border town nestled along the Danube River, I encountered the enchanting Violinist Fountain. Unable to resist its charm, I captured a series of compelling images, now available for editorial or personal use.