site.btaSt. St. Kirik, Julita Island Can Become Part of UNESCO's Cultural Heritage, Says Vice President Iotova

If the project for St. St. Kirik and Julita Island is implemented, the island can become part of UNESCO's cultural and historical heritage, said Vice President Iliana Iotova during a working meeting on the island's development in Sozopol on Wednesday.

The future of the island was discussed by representatives of the local authorities, the Culture Ministry , the initiative committee for the creation of a Culture and Art Centre on the island, scientists and experts. Iotova is part of the initiative committee and has supported the idea of ​​​​preserving and developing the island for years. She is actively involved in the negotiation process with France, which is interested in participating in the project, and held a discussion on the topic with UNESCO Assistant Secretary General Ernesto Ottone during his visit to Bulgaria.

“We are interested not only in the island being attractive to tourists and in preserving its ancient history, but also in developing it and turning it into a multifunctional centre, including a museum, a centre for underwater archaeology and a training centre that would bring together scientists from all over the world,” Iotova said, stressing that greater activity is needed on the part of Bulgarian institutions on this issue and noting that the money for the project has been cut from the 2025 state budget.

Iotova also once again expressed regret for the missed opportunities resulting from Bulgaria’s refusal to host the 47th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee in Bulgaria.