Bishop’s Basilica of Philippopolis Shortlisted for Prestigious SHARE Architecture Awards

The Visitor Center of the Bishop’s Basilica of Philippopolis

We are delighted to announce that the Bishop’s Basilica of Philippopolis has been shortlisted in the cultural heritage category of the prestigious SHARE Architecture Awards. These awards recognize outstanding architecture projects across Central and Eastern Europe, celebrating innovative designs and remarkable transformations that contribute to cultural and urban development.

The SHARE Architecture Awards highlight excellence in architectural design and construction, honoring projects that demonstrate creativity, sustainability, and a profound respect for historical and cultural heritage. Being shortlisted for this award is a significant recognition of the exceptional work done to preserve and revitalize the Bishop’s Basilica of Philippopolis. 

The first level of the Basilica’s Visitor Center

The Basilica, a jewel of early Christian architecture, underwent an extraordinary transformation thanks to a successful seven-year public-private partnership. This initiative brought together various stakeholders, including substantial support from the America for Bulgaria Foundation, Plovdiv Municipality, and the Bulgarian Ministry of Culture, as well as the support of dozens of businesses and countless volunteers. The project’s goal was to conserve and display the Basilica’s invaluable mosaics while creating a vibrant public space for education and community engagement.

The collaborative efforts of Skolnick Architecture & Design Partnership, Atelie DUO, Abstracta, and ZOOM Studio were pivotal to the success of this project. Each firm brought unique expertise and creativity, ensuring the Basilica’s transformation was both visually stunning and educationally enriching, allowing visitors to engage deeply with the site’s history.

The spiral staircase leading to Level 2

The Bishop’s Basilica is also on UNESCO’s Tentative List of significant cultural and natural heritage sites, further emphasizing its global importance. This designation highlights the Basilica’s exceptional historical value and the need for its continued preservation and study.

Today, the Bishop’s Basilica is a stunning example of how historical preservation can be seamlessly integrated with contemporary design. Visitors are welcomed into a beautifully designed modern space where they can marvel at the intricate mosaics, some of the oldest and most exquisite in Europe. The Basilica not only serves as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Philippopolis (modern-day Plovdiv) but also as a dynamic venue for cultural events and educational programs.

The recognition by the SHARE Architecture Awards underscores the importance of preserving our historical landmarks and the innovative approaches needed to bring them to life for future generations. We invite you to learn more about the Basilica’s inspiring journey and explore its breathtaking beauty. For more details on the SHARE Architecture Awards and the Bishop’s Basilica of Philippopolis, please visit the official awards page. 

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