site.btaVice President Unveils Exhibition about Bulgaria's Ancient Treasures within Francophonie Summit in Paris

Within the Francophonie Summit in Paris, President Iliana Iotova unveiled an exhibition titled "The Ancient Treasures of Bulgaria", the President's press secretariat reported Friday. The exhibition was prepared by a team of the Institute of Balkan Studies and the Centre of Thracology with the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences within the Education Ministry's national scientific programme aimed at developing and popularizing Bulgarian studies abroad. 

The presentation of the exhibition was accompanied by performances by Orenda Trio, which combine Bulgarian folklore with modern sound in French.

"Layers of history, ancient civilizations have left their mark on Bulgarian lands through their culture, art, philosophy of life - this story about Bulgaria should be known by more people around the world. They should know that the Bulgarian people and the Bulgarian state with over 13 centuries of tradition were born out of enlightenment and culture, they should know the rich Bulgarian culture, traditions and spirituality that we are proud of. And today we continue to write our history as a dignified nation with a worthy and active state on the European and world map," the Vice President said in her address.  She stressed that in 2025 Bulgaria will host the 47th session of the UNESCO Cultural Heritage Committee, describing this as a great recognition and a chance for Bulgaria to defend its worthy place on the European and world map of cultural and historical heritage.

Iotova visited the pavilion representing Bulgaria. She thanked the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Culture and the Association of Municipalities in the Republic of Bulgaria for their work on making the pavilion a reality. "Bulgaria is an equal part of the colourful puzzle of the countries that are members of the International Organisation of La Francophonie. This cultural space sends a message of a peaceful and tranquil world where people want to know each other and build ties. Culture and spirituality are the most direct way of getting to know each other, the only way that is not mined by hatred and division," said the Vice President.

At the Bulgarian pavilion, through a virtual tour, visitors have the opportunity to get acquainted with Bulgaria's underwater cultural heritage, as well as with the mosaic art of the Bishop's Basilica in Plovdiv (South Central Bulgaria). Bulgarian essential oils are presented as an example of a successful and sustainable industry from the Rose Valley (Central Bulgaria). Through multimedia materials visitors can also learn about the cultural and historical heritage of a number of Bulgarian municipalities.