Repatriation of Tsar Samuil's remains sparks historical and political debate

The repatriation of the remains of Tsar Samuil to Bulgaria has sparked debate regarding historical accuracy and political motivations. Vesela Cherneva, Deputy Director of the European Council on Foreign Affairs, noted that the return was made possible by a 2022 agreement within the Bulgarian-Macedonian Historical Commission, which recognized Samuil as a ruler of the Bulgarian medieval kingdom. She suggested that the timing of the event may be influenced by upcoming elections in Greece.

However, Professor Milko Palangurski from the Institute for Historical Research at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences criticized the process as being rushed for political PR. He argued that scientific and genetic studies should have been conducted first to confirm whether the remains belonged solely to Samuil or to other members of the royal dynasty. Palangurski also expressed concern that the return of artifacts to Greece could set a precedent for further demands for cultural property between nations.