Petar PETROV
(UACEG, Sofia, Bulgaria)
Abstract:
The aim of this poster is to present a case study project which intends to be a model for advantageous heritage preservation. It introduces the public to the site of the monastery ‘St. Mary Magdalene’ in close vicinity of Sofia. For third year excavations are held there by archaeologist Snejana Goryanova. An early-Christian basilica is discovered, spectacular in size, dominating the surrounding area form a peak of a hill. The place itself is part of a series of monasteries (more than 40) which form a circle around the city called ‘Sofia Sveta Gora’ that could be translated as ‘The Holly Mountain of Sofia’.
The long term objective is to include that periphery area to the tourist map of Sofia through rich cultural routes. The mid-term objective is to construct the first such route including the afore-mentioned monastery and other three nearby which will work in synergy presenting diverse cultural heritage. Short-term objective is to revitalize the area of ‘St. Mary Magdalene’ and implement a parallel conservation strategy to the archaeological remains.
The specificity of the project relies on establishing public relations by drawing a stakeholder matrix. The monastery is a field of exploration for young scientist and students through workshops and on-field internships guided by specialists. The project resolves a complicated ownership case among the local state, the Government and the Bulgarian Orthodox Church. A key stakeholder is the municipality providing assistance in detailing the master plan. Curiously its employees are also participating as voluntary workers.
The result of the effort is a model for bottom-up gradual development. It is important since the issue of misunderstanding the purpose of heritage, moving the focus from cultural to political aspect, is on agenda in Bulgaria.
Keywords: archaeology; tourism; on-field; stakeholder; model