Municipal Council to Request Taking Over Management of Bishop’s Basilica of Philippopolis from Culture Ministry

The Plovdiv Municipal Council voted on Thursday to submit a formal request to assume management of the Episcopal Basilica of Philippopolis, transferring stewardship from the Culture Ministry. The structure of ownership for the historic site remains a co-ownership regime, with the Plovdiv Municipality holding a 55.8% stake and the State owning the remaining 44.2%. The primary motivation cited by the Municipal Council is the desire to ensure continuous and comprehensive management of the site’s cultural assets.

According to the council’s decision, assuming direct management will empower the Municipality to enhance the protection, maintenance, and various activities related to preserving this significant immovable cultural value. This expanded scope of control is intended to facilitate scientific research, cultural programming, educational initiatives, and organized tourism activities surrounding the area. The municipal body emphasized that it possesses a defined strategy for the exhibition, preservation, and promotion of the region’s historical and cultural heritage.

The Basilica itself is recognized as a monument of considerable historical, artistic, and scientific importance. Furthermore, the site holds international significance, as it is included in the UNESCO Tentative List for Cultural and Natural Heritage, specifically as part of the serial property titled “Bishop’s Basilica and Late-Antique Mosaics of Philippopolis, Roman Province of Thrace.” The council’s action reflects a commitment to maintaining the integrity of the basilica while maximizing its role as a cultural anchor for the city.

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