Bulgaria’s Ambassador Irena Gancheva unveils cultural exhibition highlighting Ancient Treasures of Bulgaria

Celina Ali

Islamabad: As part of a growing commitment to cultural diplomacy and mutual understanding, Her Excellency Irena Gancheva, the Ambassador of Bulgaria to Pakistan, formally inaugurated an exhibition titled “The Ancient Treasures of Bulgaria” at a distinguished cultural venue in Islamabad.

The exhibition, which opened to an enthusiastic audience of diplomats, historians, scholars, artists, and cultural enthusiasts, aims to spotlight Bulgaria’s extraordinary archaeological heritage and millennia-old civilization.

Spearheaded by the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in collaboration with the Institute of Balkan Studies and Centre of Thracology at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences (IBSCT-BAS), the exhibition offered a unique window into Bulgaria’s ancient history—particularly that of the Thracian civilization, one of Europe’s earliest and most influential cultures.

The content displayed in the exhibition was meticulously prepared under the prestigious “Bulgariana” Project, led by eminent scholar Prof. D.Sc. Valeria Fol and visualized through the lens of acclaimed photographer Nikolay Genov.

Visitors were treated to a compelling presentation of vivid photographs, detailed explanatory panels, and interpretive artistic renderings of archaeological artifacts excavated from Thracian tombs, burial sites, royal hoards, and ceremonial sanctuaries, some of which date as far back as the 5th century BCE.

Ambassador Gancheva underscored the exhibition’s role in promoting cross-cultural appreciation and nurturing stronger bilateral ties. “This exhibition not only pays tribute to the depth and diversity of Bulgaria’s ancient legacy but also acts as a cultural bridge, bringing the people of Bulgaria and Pakistan closer together through shared values and appreciation of historical heritage,” she said.

She further drew attention to the intriguing cultural parallels between the Thracians of the Balkans and the ancient civilizations of the Indus Valley, emphasizing the universality of humanity’s creative spirit and spiritual traditions, reflected across continents in artifacts, rituals, and artistic expression.

The exhibition represents a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to enhance cultural collaboration between Bulgaria and Pakistan. It is expected to draw the interest of students, researchers, and history lovers from across the capital and beyond. Through the lens of the Thracian civilization – renowned for its warrior ethos, exquisite goldsmithing, and mystic beliefs – visitors are invited to journey through an ancient world that continues to captivate the imagination of historians and archaeologists to this day.