St. Hieromartyr Simeon of Samokov: The Hero Who Challenged the Ottoman Empire

In the heart of Samokov this morning, the Bulgarian Patriarch Daniil restored the memory of one of the most significant spiritual leaders in Bulgarian history - the hieromartyr Simeon of Samokov. During a solemn liturgy at the "Nativity of the Virgin" church, the primate of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church emphasized the exceptional feat of the metropolitan, who remained faithful to his faith until his last breath.

Simeon Popovich, known as Simeon of Samokov, entered the analyses of historians as a key figure from the period of Ottoman slavery. As early as 1734, he was appointed as the local metropolitan and immediately began organized resistance against the Ottoman occupiers. The epicenter of his activity became the Dolnolozhenski Monastery "St. Spas", where he coordinated opposition sentiments.

The fate of the clergyman was predetermined around July 20, 1737, when he was arrested. Chained, he was subjected to torture for 23 days. However, his unwavering faith was not broken even in the face of cruel torment. On August 18 of the same year, he was taken to Sofia, accused of being the main organizer of the rebellion against Ottoman rule.

Patriarch Daniil during today's service emphasized this aspect of Simeon of Samokov's life - the ability to stand up for one's beliefs regardless of the price. "If our heart is not attached to God, we cannot pray truly," said the spiritual leader, drawing a parallel between the saint's feat and contemporary challenges of faith.

Simeon of Samokov's dramatic end came on August 21, 1737, when he was hanged behind the "St. Sofia" church. Ali Pasha even forbade his burial, but this did not prevent his memory from remaining alive. In 1994, archaeologists discovered his relics, parts of the Gospel, a staff, and rich vestments, which are now preserved in the Belyo Church.

In honor of his feat, the Samokov Municipal Council decided to build a monument to the hieromartyr. The monument will be located near the Bayrakli Mosque and will remind generations of his self-sacrifice.

The ceremonies in honor of Simeon of Samokov continued with the opening of an art exhibition "Threads of Time", in which six contemporary Bulgarian artists presented their vision of historical memory. Simultaneously, in the local Sunday school, which has about 30 children, icons created by the students themselves were presented.

Patriarch Daniil, who for the second consecutive year leads the liturgy in the Belyo Church, donated an icon to Mayor Angel Djorgov and reinforced the message that the memory of such personalities as Simeon of Samokov must continue to inspire Bulgarians.