As part of the traditional celebrations in Samokov, His Holiness Patriarch Daniel arrived in the city to lead a solemn liturgical service dedicated to the local spiritual hero Simeon Samokovsky.

The official visit included a festive welcome by the local community - Mayor Angel Dzhorgov, clergy, laity, and children from the Sunday school accompanied the patriarch as he entered the church.

The Primate served a holy liturgy in the famous Belova Church, where he honored the memory of Hieromartyr Simeon Samokovsky, whose historical fate is extremely dramatic. The service was part of the official program for the city's holiday, which started the previous day.

Simeon Popovich, who became Metropolitan of Samokov in 1734, became a key figure in the organized resistance against Ottoman rule. His activity was centered around the Dolnolozhenski Monastery of Saint Spas, where he prepared an anti-Ottoman uprising.

His dramatic fate was marked by arrest, torture, and martyrdom. In July 1737, he was arrested, tortured for 23 days, and subsequently taken to Sofia, where he was hanged behind the Saint Sophia Church on August 21.

Local authorities have taken important steps to perpetuate his memory. The Municipal Council has decided to build a monument on the occasion of the 290th anniversary of his death, which will be positioned around the area near the Bairakli Mosque.

The afternoon program included additional celebrations - a folklore concert with local singing and dance ensembles, as well as the opening of an art exhibition-plein air "Threads of Time" with six contemporary Bulgarian artists.

Archaeological excavations from 1994 revealed exceptional artifacts - parts of the saint's relics, a Gospel, a metropolitan staff, and a gold-woven vestment, which are now displayed in the Belova Church.

August 21 is officially declared a holiday in Samokov, in deep respect for the spiritual feat of Simeon Samokovsky.