The Bulgarian Monarchy refers to the historical system of governance in Bulgaria where kings ruled the country. It began in the 7th century with the establishment of the First Bulgarian Empire, which became a significant power in Southeast Europe. The monarchy continued through various dynasties, including the Asen and Shishman families, until the fall of the Second Bulgarian Empire in the late 14th century. After a period of Ottoman rule, the monarchy was restored in the late 19th century with the establishment of the Principality of Bulgaria. The monarchy officially ended in 1946 when King Simeon II was deposed, and Bulgaria became a republic.