The Plovdiv Municipal Council voted on Thursday to formally request the assumption of management responsibilities for the Episcopal Basilica of Philippopolis from the Culture Ministry. Currently, the basilica operates under a co-ownership regime, with the Plovdiv Municipality holding a 55.8% stake and the State owning the remaining 44.2%. According to the council’s rationale, taking over direct management is necessary to ensure the continued protection, maintenance, and execution of activities related to the preservation of this significant immovable cultural asset.
The Municipal Council stated that this transition will better facilitate the implementation of scientific, cultural, educational, and tourism initiatives surrounding the site. The decision highlighted the municipality’s comprehensive vision for the protection, preservation, exhibition, and promotion of the region’s historical and cultural heritage. The Bishop’s Basilica of Philippopolis is recognized for its considerable historical, artistic, and scientific value.
Furthermore, the site is included in the UNESCO Tentative List for World Heritage status, 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 signals a strategic effort by the local governing body to consolidate oversight of the basilica. By assuming greater management control, the municipal authority aims to streamline conservation efforts and enhance the site’s role in cultural tourism while respecting its complex ownership structure.
Topics: #municipal #council #basilica
