May 24: History and Significance of the Day of the Holy Brothers Cyril and Methodius

The Beginning of the Bulgarian Script

On May 24, Bulgaria celebrates the Day of the Holy Brothers Cyril and Methodius, of the Bulgarian Alphabet, Education and Culture, and of Slavic Literature. This bright holiday is a symbol of national identity and Bulgaria's contribution to world culture.

The Glagolitic script, created by Constantine-Cyril the Philosopher in 862-863 AD, is a brilliant creation that conveys the unique phonetic features of the Old Bulgarian language.

Historical Path of the Holiday

• 1851 – First celebration at the "St. St. Cyril and Methodius" diocesan school in Plovdiv on the initiative of Nayden Gerov.
• 1916 – Following the introduction of the Gregorian calendar, May 24 was established as a national holiday.
• 2020 – The National Assembly officially changed the name of the holiday to emphasize the role of the Bulgarian alphabet.

The Mission of Cyril and Methodius

The two brothers laid the foundations of the Old Bulgarian literary language by translating liturgical books such as the Selection Gospel and the Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom. Their mission in Moravia and the defense of the Slavic books before Pope Adrian II remain in history as a feat for the right of every nation to pray in its own language.

The work of the brothers from Thessaloniki was preserved by their disciples – Clement, Naum, Sava, Gorazd, and Angelarius, who carried the light of education to Pliska and Preslav.