Podcast in English
Text size
Bulgarian National Radio © 2025 All Rights Reserved

Christians honour St George the Victorious

Icon of Saint George, 14th century, Constantinople.
Photo: Archive

Today, the Orthodox Church commemorates St George the Victorious, recognised as one of the earliest martyrs for the faith.

Living during the reign of the Roman Emperor Diocletian, St George joined the army at a young age. By the time he was twenty, he had risen to the ranks of the Council of State. However, when the persecution of Christians began, he steadfastly refused to take part in it. Enduring various tortures for his unwavering faith, he inspired many to embrace Christianity, including Alexandra, the Emperor's wife. As a result, the emperor ordered St George to be beheaded with a sword.

For Bulgarians, the feast of St George is of great national significance, symbolising the beginning of summer and the new agricultural cycle. Traditionally, a kurban is offered in honour of St George, accompanied by the roasting of a lamb, and the whole family gathers for a festive meal.



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

The Jamala Masquerade Festival fills the town of Kyustendil with sound and colour

More than 4,000 participants from 52 masquerade groups from all over the country will take part in the Jamala National Masquerade Festival in Kyustendil on 15 and 16 February. A children's folklore procession will start from Velbazhd Square at 10.30 a.m...

published on 2/15/25 7:30 AM

Archaeology as a cause for people who unearth and protect Bulgaria’s historical heritage

With more 40 thousand archaeological sites and artifacts, Bulgaria is a true open-air museum. In terms of the number of finds, this country ranks third in the world after Italy and Greece. From the Neolithic, eight millennia ago, to..

published on 2/14/25 3:11 PM

Balkan developments

NATO tests new 'no U.S.' mission model in Balkans NATO is testing its ability to deploy rapidly across Eastern Europe - without direct US support - as Washington shifts its approach to European defence and the war in Ukraine, the Associated Press..

published on 2/14/25 2:17 PM