Professor Atanaskoski disputes transfer of Tsar Samuel's remains

Professor Alexander Atanaskoski, a medieval history specialist from UKIM, has criticized the agreement between Bulgaria and Greece regarding the transfer of the alleged remains of Tsar Samuel from Thessaloniki to Sofia.

Atanaskoski argues that the decision to return the remains to Bulgaria is illogical, stating that the Tsar was born, lived, and died in the region of present-day North Macedonia. He disputes the authenticity of the remains currently held in Bulgaria, noting a lack of inscriptions or definitive evidence regarding the four graves in question.

Citing Byzantine sources, the professor suggests that while historical accounts place Samuel's death near Lake Prespa, the remains being discussed are not his. He further posits that the actual remains of Tsar Samuel may have been moved to Bulgaria as early as 1943 during the Second World War.