ISLAMABAD: A captivating exhibition titled ‘The Ancient Treasures of Bulgaria’ opened at the Bulgarian embassy, offering a rare glimpse into the rich cultural legacy of the Balkan nation.

Organised by the Bulgarian embassy, the exhibition marked two significant milestones – Day of Bulgarian Alphabet and Culture and the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Bulgaria and Pakistan.

Curated by the Institute of Balkan Studies and Centre of Thracology under the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, the exhibition was formally introduced by Ambassador Irena Gancheva. Special guest Dr Alexander Milanova, assistant professor at the institute, had flown in from Sofia to personally set up and present the showcase.

In her opening remarks, Ambassador Gancheva proudly shared that Bulgaria was the birthplace of the Cyrillic alphabet - an enduring cultural contribution to Europe and a pillar of Bulgarian identity. “Bulgaria is perhaps the only country that officially celebrates its alphabet and culture,” she said, highlighting how language had preserved Bulgarian heritage through centuries of change.

She also underscored the strength of Bulgaria-Pakistan relations over the past six decades. “The two countries have been bound by mutual understanding and cooperation.

We look forward to further strengthening ties in politics, education, science, and culture,” said the ambassador, addressing a gathering of diplomats, academics, and art lovers.

Dr Milanova introduced the exhibit as a window into the ancient Thracian civilisation, which once flourished in the region now known as Bulgaria.

The photographs featured artistically crafted gold and silver objects such as vessels, jewelry, weapons, and ceremonial artifacts, many of which had been housed in premier institutions like the Louvre and the British Museum.

Among the highlights was a striking image of over 5,000 gold objects unearthed near the Black Sea coast, believed to be the oldest processed gold in the world, dating back 6,500 years. “It is not only the weight or material that makes these treasures special,” Dr Milanova noted, “But their testament to humanity’s timeless desire to create beauty and meaning.”

Published in Dawn, June 5th, 2025