Sozopol Declared Cultural Capital of Bulgaria for 10 Days

30.08.2025 | Region

Sozopol has been declared the cultural capital of Bulgaria for the next ten days during the 41st edition of the Arts Festival "Apollonia".

Снимка от Unknown authorUnknown author, Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.5 bg)

Opening the 41st edition of the "Apollonia" Arts Festival, Sozopol was officially announced as the new cultural capital of Bulgaria for the next ten days. This solemn declaration was made by the Chairman of the National Assembly, Nataliya Kiselova, during the official opening ceremony, held in the amphitheater of the picturesque seaside town. The crowd that filled the ancient amphitheater greeted her words with applause, and the sunset over the sea lit up the stage, creating an unforgettable atmosphere.

Address by the Chairman of the National Assembly

In her address, Ms. Kiselova emphasized the event's long-standing tradition, noting that it has been held for so long, "more time than some of the people who are here today have memories of". She expressed admiration for the scale and significance of the festival, describing it as "serious inspiration, a serious effort". The Chairman of the Parliament highlighted the tremendous work behind the organization, stating that "only the organizers can say how long it takes them".

Nataliya Kiselova addressed the audience directly, wishing them to enjoy the upcoming ten days filled with "youth, energy, beauty, inspiration, and talent". She concluded her thought with an inspiring message about the pursuit of excellence, stating that "we are as talented as the bar we set for ourselves".

In her speech, Kiselova revealed that she had been invited to attend the event back in March, a moment when she became aware of the common aspiration of people and artists. She shared that she had thought at the time: "We all dream of the sea. All year we think about how to get to the sea". In the same way, according to her, "all year part of the cultural figures think about how to present themselves in the best way". She noted that the young participants in the festival are an example of how we can be "more wonderful and even more talented".

Finally, the Chairman of the National Assembly made an optimistic appeal to those present. She wished them "wonderful days" and reminded them that "summer continues and August is not only until August 31. August is also in September". Her words resonated as an invitation to everyone to immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere that is coming to the seaside town.

/HK/