https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/rss Sun, 24 May 2026 02:41:11 +0300 en hourly 1 https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1132330-pop-diva-lili-ivanova-to-perform-in-paris-s-olympia-for-the-second-time https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1132330-pop-diva-lili-ivanova-to-perform-in-paris-s-olympia-for-the-second-time Sat, 23 May 2026 13:48:00 +0300 Lili Ivanova, the biggest name in Bulgarian pop music, arrived in Paris on Friday for her concert that will be hosted by the Olympia on Sunday. This will be Ivanova's second concert in the legendary venue, after on January 9, 2009, she became the first Bulgarian artist to perform there. After she was met with a bouquet of roses, Ivanova wrote "Merci beaucoup!" [thank you very much] on her Facebook page. The Olympia wrote on its website: "Lili Ivanova is the greatest figure in Bulgarian popular music. For more than 65 years, she has embodied the passion and excellence of an extraordinary artist. A true living legend, she has performed over 10,000 shows and recorded more than 600 songs, releasing over 40 solo albums, most of them certified platinum. [...] Her unique voice – both powerful and sensitive – transcends genres: pop, chanson, and jazz. A symbol of elegance and artistic constancy, Lili Ivanova remains the embodiment of the soul of Bulgarian song." Following the announcement of the concert last November, Lili Ivanova extended special thanks to Gerard Pont, global director of the FrancoFolies Festival and CEO of Morgane Groupe; and to Hristina Kambitova, director of FrancoFolies de Bulgarie. In June 2025, the singer participated for the first time in the FrancoFolies programme in Plovdiv, South Central Bulgaria. In Paris, Ivanova’s concert will feature the LI Orchestra, which includes Angel Dyulgerov, Orlin Tsvetanov, Ognyan Enev, Ivan Yordanov-Cheri, Hristo Mihalkov, Rosen Vatev, and LaTiDa. Culture Nikolay Zabov https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1132268-in-world-torn-apart-by-propaganda-literature-s-role-is-to-bring-together-scatte https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1132268-in-world-torn-apart-by-propaganda-literature-s-role-is-to-bring-together-scatte Sat, 23 May 2026 11:49:44 +0300 In a world torn apart by propaganda, the role of literature is to bring together the scattered fragments and divided souls, Bulgarian writer Georgi Gospodinov said in an interview with the Bulgarian News Agency (BTA). He will take part in the Bookfest International Book Fair in Bucharest from June 3 to 7. Bulgaria will be the guest of honour at the event and the BTA will serve as media partner. Romanian readers are curious, warm-hearted, and have a great respect for literature, he noted. Asked which story he most wanted to share with Romanian readers, the 2023 International Booker Prize winner said that he could speak about Bulgarian sorrows and “things that never happened,” and hear similar stories in return. “I hope this becomes a shared storytelling experience, because stories have this quality of awakening other people’s stories,” he said. Gospodinov, who is the most widely translated Bulgarian author abroad, also expressed interest in a discussion about the stereotypes Bulgarians and Romanians have about each other. He noted that such a conversation would be both “interesting and healing.” When asked to elaborate on his statement that “the most difficult form of curiosity is toward your neighbour,” he said: “With the fall of the [Berlin] Wall in 1989, the boundaries of our socialist dormitory - or camp, as it was called - also came down. Both words - dormitory and camp - carry rather negative connotations. Naturally, everyone then turned toward the world they had been denied - the West. It was about catching up on a huge deficit of unseen cities, films, books, galleries… And it is good that after all this, we are now beginning to return and discover that here, in the Balkans, there is also plenty to see and read.” Gospodinov added that Bulgarians and Romanians share a kind of common personal past within a shared recent history. “In a world torn apart by propaganda, the role of literature is to bring together the scattered fragments and our divided souls. I know my books speak to those of Romanian writers of my generation. My childhood and the childhood of [Mircea] Cartarescu, for example, understand each other without needing much explanation. In recent years, European literary critics have been writing about this shared perspective and the wave of Eastern European literature. I believe we have good things to look forward to in literature,” the writer said. Culture BTA correspondent Martina Gancheva Yoana Vodenicharova https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1132173-elena-dzhakova-crowned-rose-queen-of-karlovo https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1132173-elena-dzhakova-crowned-rose-queen-of-karlovo Fri, 22 May 2026 23:17:00 +0300 Elena Dzhakova has been crowned the new Rose Queen of Karlovo. The 17-year-old is a student at the Vasil Levski Secondary School. The newly elected queen received one of the town's symbols, a golden rose, from Deputy Mayor Anton Minev. She will serve as the official face of Karlovo Municipality for a year, promoting the region's culture and tourism. Karlovo is renowned for its rose-growing tradition and its rose-oil industry. Twelve contestants took part in the pageant held at the Vasil Levski Community Centre. Nikol Gadzheva handed over the crown to Elena Dzhakova, who blessed the land and people of the Rose Valley. The first runner-up is Viktoria Palazova, while Polina Stefanova placed second runner-up. The Rose Queen received a prize of EUR 1,300 provided by Bulgarian Rose AD. The first runner-up was awarded EUR 600 sponsored by Transarmory Ltd., while the EUR 360 prize for the second runner-up was provided by Michelle International. The seven-member jury was chaired by Danka Zidarova-Lurtova, Deputy Mayor of Karlovo Municipality. The Rose Festival in Karlovo will take place on May 30. It will begin with a re-enactment of the traditional rose-picking ritual in the town's rose gardens. Culture Diana Dukovska BTA correspondent Irina Shopova https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1132002-ishtar-to-perform-four-concerts-in-bulgaria https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1132002-ishtar-to-perform-four-concerts-in-bulgaria Fri, 22 May 2026 18:29:11 +0300 Ethno singer Ishtar will perform four concerts in Bulgaria. The first concert is scheduled for June 3 in Plovdiv, followed by June 4 in Burgas, June 5 in Sofia at Hall 1 of the National Palace of Culture, and June 8 in Varna, the organizers said. Special guests will include Alabina and The Gypsies, part of Gipsy Kings. "One of the world’s most beloved stars is making a triumphant return to the stage to celebrate 30 years of musical magic. The concerts in Bulgaria will be a unique experience," the organizers said. According to them, the audience will hear not only Ishtar’s and Alabina’s greatest hits, but also favourite classics by the Gipsy Kings. Ishtar said she feels at home in Bulgaria and has prepared many surprises for the Bulgarian audience. Culture Veneta Litkova https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1131975-eurovision-host-city-to-be-named-within-weeks https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1131975-eurovision-host-city-to-be-named-within-weeks Fri, 22 May 2026 18:26:00 +0300 The city to host the Eurovision Grand Final in 2027 will be named within weeks, Milena Milotinova, Director General of Bulgarian National Television (BNT), told reporters at the Council of Ministers on Friday. "It is too early to say which city will host the Eurovision Song Contest; we will announce the requirements for the host city next week or the week after," she specified. Bulgaria will be hosting the event after its representative, Dara, won the 70th edition at the Grand Final in Vienna on May 17, 2026. Sofia, Burgas, Varna, and Plovdiv have already submitted bids for Eurovision. BNT will announce the so-called “city beat” and give candidates the opportunity to answer specific questions about Eurovision, she explained. The requirements are standard and mandatory, she added. “I do not want to give anything away,” Milotinova said in response to a question about which city has the best chances and whether there is a suitable venue for the contest. She emphasized that BNT will work with the EBU and Eurovision during the process. There must be a venue with a capacity of at least 10,000 people, vast areas for a press centre, other open spaces for the artists and their teams, as well as a space for hair and makeup, Milotinova noted. According to her, the rules for hosting Eurovision are 200 pages long. “Since we are starting work on the organization of the next Eurovision right from the very beginning, I believe we will do a good job and meet the standards,” Milotinova said. She stated that the government has provided assurances regarding funding for hosting the contest. The exact budget is yet to be finalized. Milotinova was at the Council of Ministers to attend a meeting between Dara and Prime Minister Rumen Radev following Bulgaria’s success at Eurovision.  During the meeting, Dara told the Prime Minister that Bulgaria is a wonderful country with great potential, and she wants to see that potential come to fruition. The singer expressed desire for real change to take place in the country – the kind that everyone at the protests wanted to see. Regarding her success at the Eurovision Contest, Dara said that this victory is very meaningful to her, but she hopes it is also important for young people, because it is a sign that negative energy can be overcome "with a strong spirit, love, and dedication to what we do." "Thank you, and Bangaranga to everyone," Dara said. "I never imagined I'd be able to say that here. The world is so interesting and vast right now," she shared.  Welcoming her at the Council of Ministers, Radev said she was now part of European politics and presented her with a bouquet. “The big Eurovision win is yours and your team’s, and I want to thank you on behalf of the Bulgarian people, who need triumphs like this to believe in themselves,” Radev said. He thanked the singer for the “immense joy, the sense of national pride she brought to Bulgarians, and the positive emotions felt by millions of people around the world.“ Radev said that during his visit to Berlin, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz welcomed him by playing Dara’s Eurovision performance of Bangaranga on his phone. “I really want to congratulate you for the dignity you showed after this win. That is no less important than the win itself,” he added. The Prime Minister said that work was beginning on preparations for Bulgaria to host Eurovision 2027. “Today, we are taking the first step towards organizing Eurovision 2027, once again thanks to Dara and her team. I believe this tremendous success will inspire us to surpass ourselves,” he said. He noted that institutions would make every effort to ensure the country will be represented with dignity on the international stage. “I want to assure you that we will put in the utmost effort to place Bulgaria where it belongs - with a respected place on the world map,” Radev said. "A lot needs to be done to make Eurovision happen here," Dara told reporters after her meeting with the Prime Minister. "My task is to continue doing what I love and develop this potential, which is just beginning to shine on the international stage," Dara said. She added that her priorities are developing Bulgaria's music and breaking onto the world stage. "I hope we can instil in Bulgarians a love for music and have more reasons to come together," the singer shared. Culture Dimitrina Solakova https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1131756-eurovision-winner-dara-bulgaria-has-great-potential-but-needs-real-change https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1131756-eurovision-winner-dara-bulgaria-has-great-potential-but-needs-real-change Fri, 22 May 2026 16:31:52 +0300 During her meeting with Prime Minister Rumen Radev at the Council of Ministers on Friday, Eurovision Song Contest 2026 winner Dara said that Bulgaria is a wonderful country with great potential, and she wants to see that potential come to fruition. The singer expressed desire for real change to take place in the country – the kind that everyone at the protests wanted to see. Regarding her success at the Eurovision Contest, Dara said that this victory is very meaningful to her, but she hopes it is also important for young people, because it is a sign that negative energy can be overcome "with a strong spirit, love, and dedication to what we do". I hope this year will be incredible for our country, the singer added. "Thank you, and Bangaranga to everyone," Dara said. "I never imagined I'd be able to say that here. The world is so interesting and vast right now," she shared.  "You are now part of European politics," Radev told her, as he welcomed her to the Council of Ministers. "A lot needs to be done to make Eurovision happen here," the singer told reporters after her meeting with the Prime Minister. "My task is to continue doing what I love and develop this potential, which is just beginning to shine on the international stage," Dara said. She added that her priorities are developing Bulgaria's music and breaking onto the world stage. "I hope we can instil in Bulgarians a love for music and have more reasons to come together," the singer shared. Culture Kristina Ivanova Borislava Bibinovska https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1131752-pm-radev-tells-eurovision-winner-dara-she-is-already-part-of-european-politics- https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1131752-pm-radev-tells-eurovision-winner-dara-she-is-already-part-of-european-politics- Fri, 22 May 2026 15:23:00 +0300 Meeting with Eurovision winner Dara at the Council of Ministers on Friday, Bulgaria's Prime Minister Rumen Radev told her that she was already part of European politics. Radev presented her with a bouquet. “The big Eurovision win is yours and your team’s, and I want to thank you on behalf of the Bulgarian people, who need triumphs like this to believe in themselves,” Radev said. He thanked Dara for the “immense joy, the sense of national pride she brought to Bulgarians, and the positive emotions felt by millions of people around the world.“ Radev said that during his visit to Berlin, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz welcomed him by playing Dara’s Eurovision performance of Bangaranga on his phone. “I really want to congratulate you for the dignity you showed after this win. That is no less important than the win itself,” he added. The Prime Minister said that work was beginning on preparations for Bulgaria to host Eurovision 2027. “Today, we are taking the first step towards organizing Eurovision 2027, once again thanks to Dara and her team. I believe this tremendous success will inspire us to surpass ourselves,” he said. He noted that institutions would make every effort to ensure the country will be represented with dignity on the international stage. “I want to assure you that we will put in the utmost effort to place Bulgaria where it belongs - with a respected place on the world map,” Radev said. Culture Yoana Vodenicharova Nikoleta Vasileva https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1131672-bulgarian-academy-of-sciences-honours-may-24-with-academic-address-and-classical https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1131672-bulgarian-academy-of-sciences-honours-may-24-with-academic-address-and-classical Fri, 22 May 2026 15:08:37 +0300 With a ceremonial gathering featuring an academic address dedicated to St Clement of Ohrid and a classical music concert performed by young musicians, the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences (BAS) marked May 24, the Day of the Holy Brothers Cyril and Methodius, of the Bulgarian Alphabet, Education and Culture, and of Slavic Literature. The event brought together representatives of the scientific and academic community. The keynote academic lecture was delivered by Professor Iliya Iliev, from the BAS Institute for Historical Studies. The topic was chosen to commemorate the 1,110th anniversary of the demise of St Clement of Ohrid, one of the closest disciples of Saints Cyril and Methodius, who continued their mission, one of the principal disseminators of Slavic literacy and Christian enlightenment in the First Bulgarian Kingdom. As part of the musical programme, students from the Prof. Pancho Vladigerov National Academy of Music performed arias from operettas by Victor Herbert and Franz Lehar, as well as the piano piece Nocturne by Veselin Stoyanov. The ceremony was opened by BAS Vice President Emanuel Mutafov, who emphasized the historical significance of the holiday. "The creation of a writing system has always been regarded as an almost divine act, and in the case of Slavic writing, it placed the Slavs alongside the great states of the medieval era," he said. Mutafov noted that the alphabet created by the holy brothers was the Glagolitic script, while Cyrillic emerged later on the territory of the Bulgarian state. "There is growing recognition that the Glagolitic script should not be overlooked as part of Bulgaria’s cultural heritage," he added. BAS Vice President Prof. Shtelian Shterionov also addressed the participants. "For us Bulgarians, this is a celebration of one of the symbols of our identity, our historical memory, and our spiritual resilience," he said. "May 24 is not only a celebration of letters, but also of the pursuit of education and science, which today are more important than ever for the development of humanity," the scholar added. Deputy Minister of Education and Science Acad. Nikolay Vitanov greeted the gathering on behalf of the Education and Science Ministry. "The Bulgarian Academy of Sciences is an institution with an exceptional contribution to the development of Bulgarian statehood, education, science, and culture. For more than 150 years it has upheld its mission to preserve and advance Bulgaria’s scientific potential," he said. Vitanov expressed confidence that Bulgaria’s future depends on its ability to support and encourage young people to seek knowledge and believe in the power of spirit and reason. During the ceremony, Acad. Julian Revalski was awarded the title Honorary Member of the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, a distinction that has existed since 1884 and has been bestowed only about 30 times in more than 140 years. The title was last awarded in 2007. Revalski received the honour in recognition of his achievements during two terms as BAS President, for strengthening the Academy’s financial standing and advancing its scientific infrastructure. “I am deeply grateful to the BAS General Assembly,” Revalski said. “I will continue working for science, spirituality, and culture, and for strengthening the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences as a pillar of Bulgarian statehood.” Culture Risida Dimitrova Ivan Dolev https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1131489-national-ethnographic-museum-grants-eurovision-winner-dara-access-to-its-halls-f https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1131489-national-ethnographic-museum-grants-eurovision-winner-dara-access-to-its-halls-f Fri, 22 May 2026 12:12:00 +0300 The National Ethnographic Museum at the Institute of Ethnology and Folklore Studies with Ethnographic Museum at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences has granted Bulgarian performer and Eurovision 2026 winner Dara lifetime free access to its exhibitions and events, the institution said. The initiative marks both the European Night of Museums and the museum’s upcoming 120th anniversary. The museum described the gesture as a sign of respect for the singer’s talent and dedication, as well as recognition of her contribution to promoting Bulgarian culture. In addition to lifetime access, Dara will be allowed to use the museum’s halls for seven years for creative projects, including photo shoots, music videos and other artistic initiatives. According to the museum, the collaboration would help combine contemporary art with Bulgaria’s cultural and historical heritage. The institution described the singer as a symbol of talent, hard work and self-belief, saying her efforts and determination inspired Bulgarians regardless of gender, age, ethnicity or social status. “Thank you sincerely, Dara! We are looking forward to welcoming you to the National Ethnographic Museum,” the museum team said. Bulgaria won the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest with 516 points from juries and viewers. Following Dara’s victory, Bulgaria will host the 71st edition of the competition in 2027. Culture Teodora Lyubenova https://www.bta.bg/en/news/economy/1131435-eurovision-2027-could-generate-up-to-eur-70-mln-for-bulgaria-analysis https://www.bta.bg/en/news/economy/1131435-eurovision-2027-could-generate-up-to-eur-70-mln-for-bulgaria-analysis Fri, 22 May 2026 11:55:41 +0300 Bulgaria could generate a net economic revenue between EUR 45 million and EUR 70 million from hosting the Eurovision Song Contest in 2027, depending on visitor numbers and the length of their stay, according to a preliminary assessment by cross-border payment service provider iBanFirst. The analysis says the largest share of the benefits would likely be concentrated in the host city through higher revenues for hotels, restaurants, transport services and retail, while broader gains would depend on Bulgaria’s ability to capitalize on international media attention. The analysis says tourism campaigns should promote not only the Black Sea coast, but also urban tourism, cultural heritage, mountain destinations and the country’s growing culinary scene in an effort to position Bulgaria as a year-round destination. Studies on previous Eurovision editions show the contest can generate substantial short-term economic benefits. A study by the University of Liverpool and Amion Consulting estimated the net economic effect of the 2023 contest in Liverpool at around EUR 64 million. Estimates for Malmo in 2024 were about EUR 39 million, while Basel’s 2025 edition generated close to EUR 97 million. According to the analysis, the hospitality sector is usually among the main beneficiaries, although critics argue Eurovision’s economic impact is often overstated because the gains are concentrated in the short term. Still, iBanFirst says hosting the contest would offer Bulgaria a rare opportunity to improve its international image and present itself as an integrated European economy capable of organizing a major international event. The report concludes that turning Eurovision into a long-term economic benefit would depend on public support, infrastructure and a consistent tourism strategy. Economy Teodora Lyubenova Martin Lekov https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1131383-wwf-says-efforts-to-protect-critically-endangered-sturgeon-continue-as-world-mar https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1131383-wwf-says-efforts-to-protect-critically-endangered-sturgeon-continue-as-world-mar Fri, 22 May 2026 10:24:00 +0300 WWF Bulgaria said efforts to protect sturgeon, once regarded as “aristocratic fish” because they were historically considered a royal delicacy, continue as the world marks International Day for Biological Diversity on May 22.  Conservation measures include restocking, habitat restoration, research and the designation of new protected areas, while combating poaching remains a priority, the environmental organization said. WWF said it was still too early to assess the impact of Bulgaria’s indefinite ban on sturgeon fishing in the Bulgarian stretch of the Danube River and the Black Sea, which entered into force on January 1.  The organization said nearly 100,000 tagged sterlet sturgeon (Acipenser ruthenus) , beluga sturgeon (Huso huso)  and Russian sturgeon (Acipenser gueldenstaedtii)  had so far been released into the Danube in cooperation with local fishing communities. Another 30,000 Russian sturgeon were released near the village of Gomotartsi in northwestern Bulgaria on May 21. Together with partners in Romania, Ukraine, Austria and Germany, WWF is working on the creation of a floating sturgeon hatchery that would serve as a gene bank for genetically diverse fish of Danube origin. Two hatcheries are planned in Austria and Hungary by 2030. WWF said researchers were studying sturgeon habitats and behaviour, including breeding, feeding and wintering areas, and highlighted the creation of Bulgaria’s first protected sturgeon conservation area, the “Sturgeons – Vetren” . The organization also participates in international initiatives such as the Danube Sturgeon Task Force and conducts anti-poaching and anti-trafficking training for state officials. WWF described sturgeon as a key indicator of river ecosystem health, highlighting that the species, which dates back more than 200 million years to the age of dinosaurs, has long held major economic and cultural significance. Because of the high value of caviar, sturgeon are now classified as critically endangered. WWF said the main threats remain illegal fishing and trade, habitat loss and the disruption of migration routes caused by dams and hydropower facilities. Despite the challenges, WWF said there was still hope for saving the species through long-term efforts, international cooperation and stronger action against illegal trade. Culture Borislava Bibinovska Teodora Lyubenova https://www.bta.bg/en/news/bulgaria/1131230-european-commissioner-zaharieva-wishes-strength-confidence-unity-on-eve-of-day https://www.bta.bg/en/news/bulgaria/1131230-european-commissioner-zaharieva-wishes-strength-confidence-unity-on-eve-of-day Thu, 21 May 2026 20:02:00 +0300 Ekaterina Zaharieva, European Commissioner for Startups, Research and Innovation, hosted a celebration at the European Commission in Brussels on Thursday for the Day of the Bulgarian Alphabet, Education and Culture, and Slavic Literature, May 24. "Let us wish for strength, confidence, and unity,” she urged in her address. "This is one of the most joyous Bulgarian holidays, and it gives us cause for true national pride - that we not only created our alphabet but also preserved it," Zaharieva noted. "Through the letters, we have preserved our language and culture; we have preserved ourselves as a people. The challenge before us is great in an era of technology, multinationalism, and globalization: to continue to protect and preserve this language, to continue to write and create in Bulgarian, wherever we may be," Bulgaria's European Commissioner added. "We have many reasons to be proud of our people’s achievements," she went on to say, noting Bulgaria’s latest success in the field of culture with the victory at the Eurovision song contest. "I really hope that such achievements show us that we are not a small country and that we can achieve anything, as long as we want it and believe in ourselves. I very much hope that we will be able to host [next year's] event well. I am convinced that we can and will be one of the best hosts of Eurovision,” said Zaharieva. Bulgaria Dimitrina Solakova BTA correspondent Nikolay Jeliazkov https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1130961-bulgarian-antarctic-institute-participates-in-antarctic-treaty-meeting https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1130961-bulgarian-antarctic-institute-participates-in-antarctic-treaty-meeting Thu, 21 May 2026 16:12:12 +0300 The Bulgarian Antarctic Institute took part in the 48th Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting (ATCM 48), which concluded in Hiroshima on Thursday, the Institute said. The main topics on the agenda included the regulation of Antarctic tourism, climate change, geopolitical transparency, and the applications of Canada, Belarus and Turkiye for consultative status. Due to a lack of consensus, none of the three countries was granted such status. Against this background, Bulgaria reaffirmed its position as a regional leader, demonstrating 28 years of experience as a consultative party and serving as a model for peaceful scientific cooperation. The Bulgarian delegation was headed by Danail Chakarov, Director of the International Law Directorate at the Foreign Ministry, and Prof. Christo Pimpirev, head of the Bulgarian Antarctic Institute. The next, 49th meeting will be held in South Korea in 2027. Culture Veneta Litkova https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1130814-tbilisi-garden-opened-in-sofia-as-bulgarian-georgian-friendship-symbol https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1130814-tbilisi-garden-opened-in-sofia-as-bulgarian-georgian-friendship-symbol Thu, 21 May 2026 15:23:32 +0300 Tbilisi Garden was officially opened on Thursday in a renovated public space in Sofia’s Lozenets district, which was named after the Georgian capital by a decision of the Sofia Municipal Council in July 2023. The event was attended by Sofia Mayor Vassil Terziev, Deputy Foreign Minister Christo Polendakov, Sofia Deputy Mayor for Culture and Tourism Irina Dakova, Lozenets District Mayor Konstantin Pavlov, Georgian Ambassador to Bulgaria Zurab Khamashuridze, members of the diplomatic corps and guests. The area has been fully renovated with new paving, landscaping, a children’s playground and lighting. The garden furniture was donated by the Georgian Embassy. A graffiti mural depicting views of Tbilisi has also been created near the garden under the "The Energy Is You" programme of Electrohold and ERM Zapad. Sofia Mayor Vassil Terziev said that the project had been discussed with the previous Georgian ambassador to Bulgaria and had long been anticipated. "I am happy that Tbilisi now also has its official place in Sofia. It is important to become closer to one another in terms of culture and opportunities so that we can build a better future together," Terziev said. He noted that although the garden may seem like a small gesture, it is an important step in the development of relations between the two countries. "Tbilisi is coming to Sofia," Deputy Foreign Minister Christo Polendakov said. He described the Georgian capital as an ancient city with a rich history and cultural heritage, where different cultures, ethnic groups and religions have met over the centuries. According to him, the naming of the space is "another eloquent sign of the traditional desire of our two countries and peoples to develop and strengthen constructive relations and fruitful ties between Bulgarians and Georgians". Polendakov recalled that a small garden bearing the name of Sofia was opened in Tbilisi in 2021, and said that Thursday’s event was a reciprocal gesture from the Bulgarian side. He stressed the importance of cooperation between Bulgaria and Georgia in the fields of connectivity between Europe and Asia, energy, transport, culture, education, sport and tourism. The deputy foreign minister also extended congratulations ahead of Georgia’s national holiday, Independence Day on May 26. Georgian Ambassador Zurab Khamashuridze described the opening of Tbilisi Square as a special day for relations between the two countries and the two capitals. He recalled that Sofia and Tbilisi have been twin cities since 2016, and that Sofia Square was opened in the Georgian capital in 2021. According to him, the new space in Sofia symbolizes the "strong and growing friendship between Georgia and Bulgaria" and will remain "a lasting testament to friendship and mutual respect between the two nations". The ambassador thanked Bulgaria for its support for Georgia’s Euro-Atlantic aspirations and for backing the country’s territorial integrity. At the end of his remarks, he also congratulated Bulgarian performer Dara on her success at the Eurovision Song Contest. Culture Veneta Litkova Nikoleta Vasileva https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1130801-union-of-bulgarian-writers-presents-annual-literary-awards https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1130801-union-of-bulgarian-writers-presents-annual-literary-awards Thu, 21 May 2026 15:12:00 +0300 The Union of Bulgarian Writers presented its annual literary awards on Thursday to authors and public figures for their contribution to the development of contemporary Bulgarian literature. The prizes in the field of book production for 2025 were awarded by the organization's Chair Boyan Angelov. The poetry prize was awarded to Tsonka Hristova for the book The Museum of Life, published by Bogiana publishing house. Hristova was not present, but Angelov said the award would be presented in early June, when the book will be introduced at the Dora Gabe House. The short prose award went to Ivan Hristov for the collection Rhodope Stories, published by Bulgarian Writer. The Novel of the Year prize was awarded to Lyubomir Halatchev for I Wanted to Ask You One More Thing, Can I?, published by Valentin Traianov. The journalism prize was given to Boyko Kotsev for the book Beyond the Protocol, published by Iztok-Zapad. The literary criticism award went to Petar Andasarov for The Word is Love, published by Zahari Stoyanov publishing house. The children’s literature prize went to Milen Ivanov for the four-part book Maymuncho, published by Milen Ivanov. The Georgi Bratanov National Literary Award was awarded to Stanislav Penev, who was not present and will receive the distinction at a later stage. Certificates for contribution to contemporary Bulgarian literature were given to Bozhidar Chekov, Stefan Stefanov, Yordan Peev, Krasen Kamburov, Stoyanka Miteva-Baleva and Krasimira Bliznakova. Plaques for support of Bulgarian literature were awarded to Prof. Stoyan Denchev, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the University of Library Studies and Information Technologies (ULSIT); ULSIT Rector Irena Peteva; General Zlatan Stoykov, Chairman of the Union of Reserve and Retired Officers and Sergeants; National Literary Museum Director Atanas Kapralov; Albena AD Executive Director Krasimir Stanev; Daniel Dimitrov, journalist and Deputy Director of the LIK Directorate at the Bulgarian News Agency; Trud Editor-in-Chief Petyo Blaskov. Culture Tatiana Marinova Kalina Boyadzhieva https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1130651-fourth-intuitive-bulgaria-international-salon-exhibition-to-take-place-may-27- https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1130651-fourth-intuitive-bulgaria-international-salon-exhibition-to-take-place-may-27- Thu, 21 May 2026 13:13:06 +0300 The fourth Intuitive - Bulgaria International Salon exhibition will take place from May 27 to June 13 in Hall 2A of the Union of Bulgarian Artists (UBA) in Sofia, the organizers announced. This year's edition brings together 115 artists from 22 countries under the motto "The only certainty is change". Visitors will encounter representatives of the major intuitive-naive schools - Eastern and Western European, Latin American, and Bulgarian, the announcement read. The selection offers thematic, stylistic, and technical diversity with an emphasis on a return to purely human creativity in the era of digitalization and artificial intelligence. The exhibition will also feature a several-day mentoring class led by Italian artist Guido Vedovato - a recipient of numerous international awards whose works are part of museum collections around the world. The works created during the class will be exhibited in Sofia and Belogradchik. The exhibition will be presented from August 6 to September 13 at the Valcho Valchev City Art Gallery in Belogradchik, which houses the only museum exhibition of naive and intuitive art in Bulgaria, established in 2019. It will be open to the public daily from 11 am to 7 pm, the organizers added. Culture Kristina Ivanova https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1130489-latvian-violinist-gidon-kremer-performs-with-sofia-philharmonic https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1130489-latvian-violinist-gidon-kremer-performs-with-sofia-philharmonic Thu, 21 May 2026 09:06:00 +0300 Latvian violinist Gidon Kremer will give a concert with the Sofia Philharmonic at Bulgaria Hall in the capital on the evening of Thursday, May 21. They will perform under the baton of Nayden Todorov. The programme of the show features two musical works themed around memory, time and man, and infused with emotion which is hard to forget, the orchestra management says. The centrepiece is Styx by Giya Kancheli, one of the most personal and moving works by the Georgian composer, specially written to be played by Kremer. It will be performed together with Bulgaria's National Philharmonic Choir. The second half of the concert is dedicated to Symphony No. 9 in E-flat major by Dmitri Shostakovich. Written in 1945, the work surprised audiences from its very premiere. Instead of triumphant music celebrating the end of World War II, Shostakovich created something more ironic, more restless and far more human. Behind the lightness and sarcasm, listeners can sense the tension of the era and the Soviet-Russian composer's characteristic way of saying much more than appears at first glance, the Sofia Philharmonic management says. Gidon Kremer was born in Riga, Latvia in 1947. He began studying the violin at the age of four under the guidance of his father and grandfather, both distinguished string players. After early success in Latvia, he continued his studies at the Moscow Conservatory with David Oistrakh. Kremer rose to international prominence after winning major prizes at the Queen Elisabeth Competition, the International Music Competition of Montreal, and the International Tchaikovsky Competition, and first prize at the Paganini Competition. Over the past five decades, he has established himself as one of the most distinctive violinists of his generation, performing with leading orchestras and conductors around the world. In 1997, he founded the Kremerata Baltica chamber orchestra to support young musicians from the Baltic states. Kremer performs on a 1641 violin by Nicola Amati. Culture Valentin Evstatiev https://www.bta.bg/en/news/bulgaria/1130376-parliament-chair-dotsova-to-lead-delegation-to-vatican-and-rome-for-day-of-saint https://www.bta.bg/en/news/bulgaria/1130376-parliament-chair-dotsova-to-lead-delegation-to-vatican-and-rome-for-day-of-saint Wed, 20 May 2026 20:55:00 +0300 A Bulgarian parliamentary delegation, led by National Assembly Chair Mihaela Dotsova, will visit the Vatican and Rome for May 24, the Day of Saints Cyril and Methodius, marked as the Day of the Bulgarian Alphabet, Education and Culture, and Slavic Literature, Parliament's press centre said on Wednesday. On May 22, the delegation will be granted an audience with Pope Leo XIV. Dotsova will also hold talks with the Holy See Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin. Later on, the delegation will attend an Orthodox liturgy at the Basilica of San Clemente and will pay homage to the relics of St Cyril. The MPs will also visit the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, where they will lay flowers at the memorial plaque marking the Vatican's recognition of the Slavic alphabet and books. The delegation will also meet with the Grand Commander of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta Fra' Emmanuel Rousseau, responsible for cultural, educational and religious affairs. On May 21, the first day of the visit, Dotsova is scheduled to meet with  Lorenzo Fontana, President of the Chamber of Deputies of Italy. The Bulgarian MPs will lay flowers at the monument to Captain Petko Voyvoda on Janiculum Hill in Rome. The monument's author, Prof. Valentin Starchev, created the pedestal, which stands alongside monuments to Giuseppe Garibaldi and other Italian revolutionaries. The delegation includes Parliament's Deputy Chair Ayten Sabri, who is Deputy Floor Leader of the Movement for Rights and Freedoms; the Deputy Floor Leaders of Progressive Bulgaria and GERB-UDF, Vladimir Nikolov and Kostadin Angelov; Vazrazhdane Floor Leader Kostadin Kostadinov; Atanas Slavov MP of Democratic Bulgaria, and Venko Sabrutev MP of Continue the Change. Bulgaria Diana Dukovska https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1130372-culture-ministry-honours-artists-with-golden-age-awards https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1130372-culture-ministry-honours-artists-with-golden-age-awards Wed, 20 May 2026 20:40:00 +0300 The National Gallery was chosen for the Golden Age awards ceremony as a sign of respect for the honoured artists, Minister of Culture Evtim Miloshev said on Wednesday. The Ministry of Culture presented the awards to prominent artists and cultural figures. The ceremony opened with young pianist Mikaela Kozhuharova of the Lyubomir Pipkov National School of Music performing Chopin’s Polonaise. Host Dia Mantova, chief expert at the Ministry of Culture’s Performing Arts and Art Education Directorate, highlighted the role of the 23 arts and culture schools under the Ministry and the ties between generations of artists. She also noted the success of Darina Yotova-Dara, known as Dara, a graduate of the Dobri Hristov National School of Arts in Varna, who won Eurovision a few days earlier. The highest distinction, the Golden Age necklace and certificate, was awarded to leading figures with outstanding contributions to Bulgarian culture and spirituality. The recipients were Vassil Gyuzelev, one of Bulgaria’s foremost medievalists, composer and conductor Lyubomir Denev, actor Valentin Ganev, writer and screenwriter Rada Moskova, whose award was accepted by her son Tedi Moskov, pianist and teacher Borislava Taneva, and, posthumously, Mihail Belchev. Belchev’s award was accepted by his wife, Kristina Belcheva. The Golden Age star and certificate went to architects Belin Mollov and Ivan Genov, composer Milko Kolarov, actress Mara Chapanova, theatre scholars Bogdana Kosturkova and Borislav Petranov, and director Kostadin Bonev. The Golden Age honorary badge, the gold seal of Tsar Simeon the Great, was presented to cultural and museum figures including Plamen Mademov, Atanas Kapralov, architects Slavi Slavov and Vladimir Rachev, director Ilian Djevelekov, Alexander Donev, Ivo Draganov, historian and archaeologist Plamen Ivanov, and composer Georgi Petkov. The silver seal of Tsar Simeon the Great went to restorer Ilinka Chergarova, curator Ivo Milev, composer Dora Draganova, and choreographers Vasil Radev and Olesya Pantikina. Contribution to the Development of Culture plaques were presented to diplomats and cultural figures including Iskra Angelova and Desislava Chakarova for their work in international cultural cooperation and cultural heritage protection, as well as Stoyanka Tenova-Ilchevska, director of the National School of Folk Arts in the village of Shiroka Laka, Martin Ivanov Mladenov, known as DJ Marti G, singer Roumyana Kotseva, and composer Stefan Slavov. The National Literary Museum was also honoured on its 50th anniversary. Certificates for contribution to Bulgarian culture were awarded to Tihomir Trifonov and writer Ivanka Topolova-Topareva. Young talent once again closed the ceremony. Harpist Eksena Kostova performed works by Marcel Grandjany and Alphonse Hasselmans, and the audience applauded her, Yana Krasteva, and Mikaela Kozhuharova, the three students of the Lyubomir Pipkov National School of Music who served as a symbol of continuity between generations in Bulgarian culture. Culture Kaloyan Kirilov https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1130222-bulgarian-artist-ruth-koleva-among-five-eu-musicians-selected-for-eu-us-cultural https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1130222-bulgarian-artist-ruth-koleva-among-five-eu-musicians-selected-for-eu-us-cultural Wed, 20 May 2026 17:04:00 +0300 Bulgarian singer-songwriter Ruth Koleva is among only five artists from across the European Union selected to take part in the inaugural Transatlantic Stars Music Program in the United States later this month, according to a Facebook post by the Delegation of the European Union to the United States of America on May 19. The cultural diplomacy initiative is organized by the Delegation of the European Union to the United States. Koleva is participating alongside artists from France, Germany, Denmark and Portugal. The American cohort includes musicians from Philadelphia’s local music scene. In a Facebook post, Ruth Koleva said she was “deeply honoured” to be part of the first European delegation participating in the Transatlantic Stars Music Program. She described the programme as “the highest possible level of cultural and musical cooperation between Europe and the United States” and added that the recognition was important not only for Bulgaria, but for the Balkans as a whole. “Bulgaria is there. The Balkans are there,” she wrote, expressing excitement ahead of the upcoming weeks in Philadelphia, Washington, D.C. and New York City. The two-week initiative, taking place from 26 May to 7 June in Philadelphia, will bring together five European musicians and five Philadelphia-based artists for collaborative songwriting sessions, live performances, mentorship and networking events aimed at building long-term international partnerships in the music industry. The programme is part of a wider EU-funded initiative designed to strengthen cultural and professional ties between European and American artists through residencies, festival appearances and industry exchange opportunities in music, film and visual arts. The residency in Philadelphia will conclude with a showcase on 3 June, where participants will present music created during the programme before travelling to Washington, D.C. for the EU Delegation’s annual State of the Arts Night.  Culture