Confession of Dr. Prakhov: The Archaeologist Who Resurrected Ancient Apollonia

23.07.2025 | History

The Municipality of Sozopol honored a leading Bulgarian researcher with a unique statuette dedicated to ancient Greek mythology and the archaeological heritage of the seaside city.

Снимка от Santabiblia, Wikimedia Commons, под CC BY-SA 4.0

In a solemn ceremony, the mayor of Sozopol presented a special statuette to Dr. Nayden Prahov – an exceptional scientist who dedicated his life to underwater archaeology. The distinction symbolizes deep recognition of his scientific achievements and contribution to understanding cultural heritage.

The artwork, created by the talented sculptor Ivan Bahchevanov, recreates an emblematic moment from ancient Greek mythology. The statuette depicts the goddess Leto embracing her divine children – Artemis and Apollo, as a metaphor for scientific discovery and generational continuity.

Artemis, known as the patron of hunting and protector of wild animals, and Apollo – god of arts and wisdom, are symbolically connected with the history of ancient Apollonia. This city, now known as Sozopol, is the epicenter of archaeological research that Dr. Prahov consistently develops.

The official recognition emphasizes the exceptional role of the scientist in revealing archaeological secrets and inspiring new generations of researchers. The statuette carries a message of the timelessness of scientific knowledge and the deep connection between the past and the future.