The Plovdiv Municipal Council voted on Thursday to petition the Culture Ministry for the assumption of management authority over the Episcopal Basilica of Philippopolis. 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%. According to the Municipal Council, transferring management will enable the Municipality to enhance its efforts in protecting, maintaining, and executing activities related to the preservation of this significant immovable cultural asset.
The council stated that this measure will also facilitate the implementation of various scientific, cultural, educational, and tourist initiatives. The Municipal Council articulated a defined strategy for the protection, preservation, exhibition, and promotion of the area’s cultural and historical heritage. The Bishop’s Basilica of Philippopolis is recognized for its substantial historical, artistic, and scientific value.
Furthermore, it is listed on the UNESCO Tentative List for Cultural and Natural Heritage as part of the serial property titled “Bishop’s Basilica and Late-Antique Mosaics of Philippopolis, Roman Province of Thrace.”
This decision reflects the local government’s commitment to curating and developing the site. By gaining full management control, the municipal body aims to ensure the sustained stewardship of the basilica, aligning preservation efforts with broader regional development goals.
Topics: #municipal #council #basilica
What are the potential implications of the Municipal Council taking over management from the Culture Ministry?