Sveti Nikola (Shipka) is a peak in Stara Planina with an altitude of 1326 m, located east of the Shipchen pass. Until November 23, 1951 the peak was called Saint Nicholas, and then until October 7, 1977 – Stoletov Peak.[1][2] The peak symbolizes heroism and self-sacrificing efforts to liberate Bulgaria from Ottoman rule.
In 1934 the Freedom Monument was erected on the summit, which can be reached via a road and a stone staircase. The memorial is part of the Shipka Park Museum. Shipka is also the name of the peak (with a height of 1232 m) located north of the main ridge and west of the Schipchenpass.
During the Russo-Turkish War (1877 – 1878) in early August 1877, General Nikolay Stoletov organized the defense of the Schipchen Pass by commanding the Schipchen Detachment (which included the Gabrov Detachment and the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5. comprised) deployed company of Bulgarian militia) on St. Nicholas peak, Eagle's Nest peak and Shipka peak. On 9-14/21-26 August 1877 decisive battles were fought. The defenders showed extraordinary heroism and, despite the enemy's numerical superiority, the attacks were repelled.