There has been a recent surge in media publications expressing negative opinions about the Bishop’s Basilica of Philippopolis, Prof. Elena Kantareva, director of the Ancient Plovdiv Municipal Institute, and her team. These individuals have faced unwarranted legal claims in an attempt to undermine their professional credibility and weaken their resolve.
At the America for Bulgaria Foundation, we are deeply disheartened that, over the past several years, instead of uniting around constructive efforts—such as fully supporting the Basilica’s inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage list—unclear and conflicting interests have hindered the very team whose expertise and dedication restored every tessera of the Basilica’s 2,000 square meters of mosaics to their former splendor. These skilled restorers, who once led this remarkable transformation, are now sidelined, reduced to spectators with their hands tied.
After more than 30 years of neglect, in 2013, the Plovdiv Municipality and the America for Bulgaria Foundation partnered to uncover, restore, and display the mosaics and treasures of the Bishop’s Basilica of Philippopolis. Our shared vision was to elevate the site to the global stage by working toward UNESCO designation for the Roman mosaic heritage of Philippopolis.
Since its opening in 2021, the Bishop’s Basilica has garnered international recognition and awards, achieving entry onto UNESCO’s tentative list in record time. It now welcomes visitors from all over the world who honor and appreciate the cultural and historical significance of Bulgaria’s heritage.
The current situation not only jeopardizes the site’s historical and cultural significance but also disrespects the dedication and craftsmanship of the mosaic restorers, as well as the community of individuals, organizations, businesses, and volunteers who made this restoration possible.
The Bishop’s Basilica of Philippopolis is a national treasure that exceeds international standards of display and design. It embodies the collaborative efforts of nearly 50 Bulgarian companies—contractors, metal workers, fabricators, furniture makers, and graphic designers—all of whom shared a vision and commitment to this remarkable project. Additionally, through ticket sales, the Basilica generates substantial income for the budget of the Ancient Plovdiv Municipal Institute.
Having observed this conflict escalate, we now feel compelled to publicly address it in the interest of the Basilica and Bulgaria’s cultural heritage before more harm is done.
If this situation continues, this treasured piece of Bulgaria’s legacy risks falling into neglect and disrepair, as the restorers are prevented from continuing their vital work. The consequences would be profound—for the Basilica, for the preservation of Bulgaria’s rich cultural history, and for the reputation of those entrusted with safeguarding Bulgaria’s national heritage.
The America for Bulgaria Foundation remains committed to supporting the full UNESCO recognition of the Bishop’s Basilica of Philippopolis once this impasse is resolved. The Basilica, the citizens of Plovdiv, and Bulgaria as a whole deserve global acknowledgment of this cultural treasure.
We call on the leadership of Plovdiv Municipality to act decisively on this critical matter.
