Podcast in English
Text size
Bulgarian National Radio © 2026 All Rights Reserved

Bulgarian Orthodox Church marks Petkovden

Photo: library

The Bulgarian Orthodox Church celebrates today the Day of St. Paraskeva (Petka) of Turnovo. The holiday is called Petkovden by the people. St. Petka - one of the most revered saints in Bulgaria, was born in Epivat on the Sea of Marmara in the 11th century. Petka lived a devout life and after her death her relics that have healing power became a symbol protecting Christian culture against Islamic assimilation. In 1238 Tsar Ivan Assen II transferred the relics to the city of Veliko Turnovo, where they were kept until the city was conquered by the Turks. After long journeys in 1641, the relics of the saint were laid in the cathedral in the Romanian city of Iasi, where they are located to this day. In folk traditions Petkovden is seen as the end of the active farming season and services for health are held.




Последвайте ни и в Google News Showcase, за да научите най-важното от деня!
Listen to the daily news from Bulgaria presented in "Bulgaria Today" podcast, available in Spotify.

More from category

Bulgarian Judges Association raises concern over new antivirus software

Judges have opposed the introduction of a new antivirus agent on their computers. The magistrates fear that it could violate personal data protection rules and compromise the independence of the judiciary. In an official letter, the Bulgarian..

published on 11/26/25 12:21 PM

Boyko Borisov: Bulgaria will join the eurozone on January 1 despite protests

GERB leader Boyko Borisov said in Parliament that Bulgaria will become a member of the eurozone on January 1, regardless of protests organized by representatives of We Continue the Change Democratic Bulgaria (PP-DB). He was commenting on opposition..

published on 11/26/25 11:06 AM

Bulgaria at risk of non compliance with the EU's fiscal framework in 2026

Six countries, including Bulgaria, are at risk of non compliance with the EU fiscal framework in 2026. This is highlighted in the 2026 European Semester Autumn Package, adopted by the European Commission. Another 12 countries are urged to continue..

published on 11/26/25 10:06 AM