FRIENDS OF BASILICA
Cultural Heritage – Pride and Responsibility
Cultural heritage is a source of pride but also requires responsibility by all. The Bishop’s Basilica of Philippopolis is the largest early Christian temple found in Bulgaria and an important part of both the country’s and the world’s cultural heritage. The Basilica and its rich mosaics are being restored and displayed with the help of Plovdiv Municipality and the America for Bulgaria Foundation, each contributing over 8 million levs to the project. However, for the Basilica to endure for future generations and become a lively part of the community, every contribution is important – that of businesses and citizens. For example, since its restoration began in 2015, hundreds of volunteers have also joined the recovery effort.
On September 26, 2018 active citizens and representatives of businesses in Plovdiv announced their decision to establish the Friends of the Basilica Foundation. The mission of the foundation is to turn the Bishop’s Basilica in a lively cultural center, attracting children and adults, locals and guests from Bulgaria and the world. The first initiative of Friends of the Basilica is the Adopt a Bird campaign. Anyone can choose between 100 mosaics of birds and adopt one through donating funds.
Who are we
The Friends of the Basilica Foundation is in the process of being registered. Its founders are Plamen Panchev, founder and owner of Sienit and Trakia Economic Zone, Ilia Dinkov, founder and owner of Intercomplex Ltd., and Nadia Zaharieva, Program Director Corporate Outreach at the America for Bulgaria Foundation. Katya Staykova is the Executive Director of the Friends of the Basilica Foundation. The Foundation is managed by a five-member board with representatives from Plovdiv businesses, donors, the Municipality of Plovdiv and the America for Bulgaria Foundation.
Bulgarians say that a bird landing on your shoulder brings good luck. Catch some luck—adopt a bird.