The Plovdiv Municipal Council voted on Thursday to formally request the assumption of management authority over the Episcopal Basilica of Philippopolis from the Ministry of Culture. Currently, the structure governing the site involves a co-ownership regime, wherein the Plovdiv Municipality holds a 55.8% stake, and the State owns the remaining 44.2%. The Municipal Council stated that assuming direct management control is necessary to ensure the continuity of efforts dedicated to protecting, maintaining, and executing preservation activities related to the site’s immovable cultural value.
Furthermore, the council noted that this measure will facilitate the implementation of scientific, cultural, educational, and tourism-related activities at the location. The municipal body emphasized its clear vision for the comprehensive protection, preservation, exhibition, and promotion of the area’s historical and cultural heritage. The Bishop’s Basilica of Philippopolis is recognized as a monument possessing significant historical, artistic, and scientific value.
Its cultural importance is underscored by its inclusion in the UNESCO Tentative List for Cultural and Natural Heritage. Specifically, the basilica is listed as part of the serial property known as the “Bishop’s Basilica and Late-Antique Mosaics of Philippopolis, Roman Province of Thrace.” This decision by the council reflects the local government’s commitment to managing the site’s resources to safeguard its complex cultural patrimony moving forward.
Topics: #municipal #council #basilica
