The Plovdiv Municipal Council voted on Thursday to request assuming management of the Episcopal Basilica of Philippopolis from the Culture Ministry. Currently, the basilica operates under a co-ownership structure, with the Plovdiv Municipality holding a 55.8% stake and the State owning the remaining 44.2%. The Municipal Council stated that taking over management is necessary to ensure the continued protection, maintenance, and execution of activities related to preserving the site’s immovable cultural value.
Furthermore, the council indicated that this transfer would facilitate the implementation of scientific, cultural, educational, and tourist initiatives. The decision highlighted the Municipality’s defined strategy for safeguarding, preserving, exhibiting, and promoting the area’s rich cultural and historical heritage. The Bishop’s Basilica of Philippopolis is recognized as a monument possessing significant historical, artistic, and scientific merit.
Its importance is underscored by its inclusion on 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.”
This move by the municipal body aims to centralize efforts for the stewardship of the important religious and historical structure. The council’s action reflects a commitment to maintaining the site’s integrity while maximizing its potential for cultural engagement and tourism development under direct municipal oversight.
Topics: #municipal #council #basilica
