Tsar Samuil's marble sarcophagus currently under construction

A specialized stone-cutting enterprise in Velingrad is currently crafting a white marble sarcophagus for the remains of Tsar Samuil. The marble used for the project is sourced from the Prilep region in North Macedonia. The sarcophagus, which will house a wooden coffin containing the ruler's bones, is being produced under the initiative of the Bulgarian Ministry of Culture and with the blessing of Patriarch Daniil.

Designed according to requirements from archaeologist Professor Lyudmil Vagalinski, the sarcophagus will measure approximately 2.30 meters in length, 90–100 cm in width, and 85–90 cm in height. To ensure the proper preservation of the remains, the construction includes ventilation openings to allow the structure to ‘breathe.’

The exterior will feature intricate symbolic decorations, including a Christogram, an icon of Archangel Michael, and depictions of Samuil's fortress in Ohrid flanked by lions. Other motifs include two peacocks representing eternity and a cross taken from the stone where Samuil's father was buried. The design also incorporates stylized birds inspired by expensive silk fabrics used during the 11th century.