National Library Exhibits Ancient Cyrillic Manuscripts

Visitors crowding to see the Enina Apostle and the Argyrian Manuscript at the National Library in Sofia, January 20, 2025 (BTA Photo/Milena Stoykova)

Sofia,

20.01.2025 12:45

(BTA)

For two hours Monday noon, the National Library in Sofia is showing two Glagolitic manuscripts: the Enina Apostle and the Argyrian Manuscript. The display is part of events marking the 1,170th anniversary of the Bulgarian alphabet and Slavonic literature, said the National Library. On the occasion of the anniversary, 2025 has been designated Year of the Glagolitic Alphabet.

During the Monday event, library experts spoke to viewers about the manuscripts and their importance.

The Enina Apostle dates back to the 10th–11th century, making it the oldest Cyrillic manuscript preserved in Bulgaria. It was discovered in 1960 during restoration work in the village of Enina and is currently housed in the Sts. Cyril and Methodius National Library in Sofia. The manuscript originally consisted of approximately 215–220 pages, of which only 39 have been partially preserved. It contains readings from the Acts and Epistles for specific liturgical occasions.

The Argyrian Manuscript dates from the early 13th century. This 58-page parchment fragment contains portions of a liturgical book. It is also kept at the Sts. Cyril and Methodius National Library in Sofia.

Both manuscripts are kept under constant temperature and humidity, which is why their removal from controlled environment will be limited to two hours.

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