Provadia-Solnitsata, recognized as Europe’s earliest salt production and urban center, was awarded the European Heritage Label (EHL) for 2026 during an official ceremony in Brussels. The event, held at the Art & History Museum, marked the 15th anniversary of the initiative. According to the National Archaeological Institute with Museum at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, the inclusion of the new sites brought the total number of EHL holders to 80 across 23 European countries.
The ceremony convened members of the European Parliament, European institutional representatives, diplomats, cultural heritage experts, and stakeholders. The program featured artistic performances and exhibitions showcasing EHL sites. The 2025 selection encompassed 13 new sites, highlighting the diversity and depth of Europe’s shared history and cultural landscape.
These sites were chosen by an independent panel from 21 candidates, based not only on historical importance but also on their dedication to education, public engagement, and promoting European values, particularly among younger generations. Commissioner Micallef stated that the newly awarded sites exemplify the core principles of the European Heritage Label, reflecting Europe’s shared history and aiding citizens in connecting with their collective identity and heritage. The leaders of the Provadia-Solnitsata project received the symbolic plaque from Commissioner Micallef.
Academician Vasil Nikolov emphasized the site’s significance to early European history. The European Heritage Label, supported by the Creative Europe programme, is an initiative of the European Commission aimed at strengthening the visibility of Europe’s shared heritage.
Topics: #european #solnitsata #salt
