This section explains how the Bulgarian postal and telegraph services developed and improved over time. By the year 1894, the postal system had already transported 16,430,000 letters and parcels, and had sent 218,105,695 francs through money orders. During that year, the system had an expenditure of 2,534,263 francs and a revenue of 2,303,474 francs, which resulted in a deficit of 230,789 francs. Although the system was not yet financially balanced, it continued to grow and modernize rapidly.
Major Reforms After 1894
Between 1894 and the early 1900s, several important reforms transformed and strengthened the Bulgarian postal and telegraph services. These reforms helped complete the organization of the system and extend it across the entire country.
1. Expansion to Rural Areas
Before 1896, only people living in towns could use postal and telegraph services. Villagers had very limited access or none at all. Starting in 1896, this changed completely. The government introduced a rural postal system that connected even the smallest villages and hamlets to the national network. This meant that nearly every Bulgarian citizen could now send and receive letters and parcels Ephesus Daily Tour.
2. Introduction of Postal Savings Banks
Around the same time, postal savings banks were opened inside many post and telegraph offices. These new services allowed people to save money safely and conveniently. They offered an important financial tool for workers, farmers, and small merchants across the country. More detailed statistics about these savings banks were published later.
3. Development of the Telephone System
The Bulgarian telephone system also began to grow. Several new lines were built, including important long-distance routes such as:
Sofia–Roustchouk
Roustchouk–Varna
In addition, local telephone services were introduced in both Roustchouk and Varna. A new telephone cable across the Danube connected the networks of Bulgaria and Romania, linking Roustchouk with the town of Giurgevo. This greatly improved international communication.
4. Lower Postal Rates
A careful review of postal tariffs led to a reduction of several postal taxes. One of the most important changes was the reduction of the cost of sending a home letter—from 15 centimes to 10 centimes per 15 grams. This made letter-writing more affordable for ordinary people.
5. New Services and More Offices
During this period, Bulgaria also introduced the cash-on-delivery and reimbursement systems, which made postal transactions safer and more convenient. The government opened 49 new post and telegraph stations and created 1,779 postal agencies across the country. This expansion played a major role in improving communication and supporting social and economic development.