During observances marking the 150th anniversary of the April Uprising, Metropolitan of Plovdiv, Nikolay, addressed attendees in Panagyurishte. Speaking at the ceremony, he emphasized the central role of the Orthodox faith in the nation’s struggle for liberation. The day’s commemorations concluded with a formal ceremony at 20 April Square in Panagyurishte.
The event was attended by dignitaries including President Iliana Iotova, National Assembly Chair Mihaela Dotsova, local officials, and parliamentary representatives. Metropolitan Nikolay focused his address on the symbolic power of the cross, identifying the altar cross from the village of Poibrene as a key historical artifact. He noted that this cross was central to the events of the Uprising in Panagyurishte.
According to the Metropolitan, it was before this very cross that Princess Rayna’s flag was consecrated and that fighters, including those from Georgi Benkovski’s band, received blessings. He recounted that the heroes reportedly took their oaths and prayed before this sacred symbol before entering battle. The Metropolitan drew a parallel between Christ’s crucifixion and resurrection and the national experience, suggesting that just as Christ rose from the cross, Bulgaria also achieved revival.
The ceremony highlighted the enduring connection between the Orthodox tradition, the physical location of Panagyurishte, and the pivotal moments of Bulgarian history.
Topics: #panagyurishte #plovdiv #orthodox
