Location of the initiative:
BULGARIA - P.C. 6000, Stara Zagora
Relation to Strategy 21 Recommendations:
D8 - Protect, restore and enhance heritage, making greater use of new technologies
Time span of the initiative:
2009
Brief description of the initiative:
4,000 characters max: The Architectural complex “Museum of religions” is a unique cult place in the center of Stara Zagora, worshiped as a sacred place during the historical ages. The conduction of archaeological excavations in the Eski Mosque and next to it revealed incredible stratification of religious practices performed in the complex: remains of a cult pit from the Early Iron Age (X - IX c. BC), pagan sanctuary dedicated to the Thracian horseman (II - III c.), medieval Christian cemetery church (end of X - XIII c.) and Muslim temple (XV - XX c.) - indisputable evidence of uncommon continuity. These results led to the idea of creating a museum of religions.
Objectives of the initiative:
The project's main objective is to create conditions for sustainable cultural, social and economic development through the renovation of the cultural infrastructure of the city of Stara Zagora. Restoring the appearance of the Eski Mosque and the creation of Museum of religions is expected to stimulate active cultural activities that promote social integration and economic progress. Spiritual and cultural growth of the local population determines its higher competitiveness.
Brief assessment of the initiative’s results:
Conservation and restoration works were conducted under archaeological supervision. All historical layers, preserving the remains of cult facilities and religious buildings are exposed appropriately.
Online resources:
