Photo Exhibition of Ukrainian Sculptor's Works Opens on Sofia’s Capital Day

Tatiana Marinova, Emanuel Smarkov

From left: Ukraine’s Ambassador to Bulgaria Olesya Ilashchuk, Sofia Mayor Vassil Terziev, art historian Ivo Milev at the opening of the "In the Footsteps of Mykhailo Parashchuk" photo exhibition on St Nedelya Square, Sofia, April 3, 2026 (BTA Photo/Milena Stoykova)

Sofia,

03.04.2026 18:56

(BTA)

A photo exhibition titled "In the Footsteps of Mykhailo Parashchuk," dedicated to the 147th anniversary since Sofia was declared Bulgaria’s capital, was opened on St Nedelya Square on Friday.

Mykhailo Parashchuk was a Ukrainian sculptor and the author of sculptural facades and decorations on buildings in Sofia and other Bulgarian cities. He arrived in Bulgaria in 1921 and lived in this country until his death in 1963.

Attending the exhibition opening, Ukraine’s Ambassador to Bulgaria Olesya Ilashchuk said that Parashchuk’s architectural sculptural works adorn the facades of the Rectorate of Sofia University, the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, the Bulgarian National Bank, the Palace of Justice, the National Assembly, the Ministry of Defence and many other buildings. His works are an integral part of the European character of present-day Sofia, Ilashchuk added.

She said that on the day of Sofia’s proclamation as capital, the aim is to present the life and legacy of Parashchuk, who left a lasting mark and transformed many landmark buildings. He also created works in Ukraine, Poland and Germany. According to the Ukrainian diplomat, Parashchuk was not only a talented sculptor but also a prominent politician, diplomat and public figure. She added that the Ukrainian Embassy is committed to restoring Parashchuk’s rightful place in the history of Bulgarian culture and architecture.

Sofia Mayor Vassil Terziev also attended the opening. He said he was pleased that the exhibition is launched on this day, allowing Sofia residents to learn more about Parashchuk’s work and life, a man who contributed greatly to the city, yet remains little known among its residents. Terziev expressed hope that more people will become familiar with Parashchuk’s contribution and learn to observe the urban environment more attentively. In the rush of everyday life, people often focus only on the ground beneath their feet, rather than looking up to appreciate the beauty of the surrounding buildings and their history, he said.

/NZ/