Papers by Todor Chobanov
сп. Лик, 2023
Статия, посветена на осемдесетгодишнината от спасяването на българските евреи/Article devoted to ... more Статия, посветена на осемдесетгодишнината от спасяването на българските евреи/Article devoted to the 80th anniversary of the Salvation of Bulgarian Jews
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STUDIA ACADEMICA ŠUMENENSIA 11/1, 61-90 , 2024
Abstract: The present study builds on the research of Prof. Rasho Rashev, connecting the Protobul... more Abstract: The present study builds on the research of Prof. Rasho Rashev, connecting the Protobulgarians with the Sarmatian communities in Eastern Europe. In view of the growing importance of the numerous finds on the northeastern coast of the Caspian Sea, today Mangastau, Kazakhstan, we analyze the archaeological and genomic data on landmark sites such as the Aigirli-2 cult facility of the "Baitinian type", finds from the Kabakarak trading settlement (3rd-5th century), as well as finds from the Altankazgan cult center of the late Sarmatian and Hunnic eras. Significant parallels have been drawn between the Protobulgarian cult facilities on the Lower Danube and what was observed in the temples of the mentioned complexes, both in terms of the shape of some cult structures, but also the presence of stone altars with a rectangular shape (sacrificial altars). Finds from Altankazgan and Karakabak are associated with the Hunnic necropolis of Novogrigorievka, the North Caucasus and other areas related to Protobulgarian history and culture. The available genomic data from the considered area along the northeastern shores of the Caspian Sea confirm these observations, linking individuals from the studied sites in the area to the population of Danube Bulgaria and the Saltovo-Mayaki culture.
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Contributions to Bulgarian Archaeology, Vol. V, 123-130, Sofia, 2009., 2009
Until now, there is no special study devoted to the role of the dog in the proto-Bulgarian pagani... more Until now, there is no special study devoted to the role of the dog in the proto-Bulgarian paganism and its rituals. Only V. Beshevliev (Beshevliev 1981,77) examines briefly the issues related to this problem. At the same time, the available sources, as well as specific data from archaeological research, allow us to assume that the dog played a certain role in proto-Bulgarian paganism. Among the sources, the most interesting are the reports of Theophylact of Ohrid in "The Martyrdom of the 15 Tiverpulian Martyrs" (GIBI vol. IX, 63-67). Theophylact reports that the Bulgarians worshiped the sun, the moon and other stars, and there were also those who offered sacrifices to dogs. The Byzantine cleric summarizes that "So much was their insane heart darkened that they worshiped the creatures instead of their creator.
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Genes
Ancient anatomically modern humans (AMHs) encountered other archaic human species, most notably N... more Ancient anatomically modern humans (AMHs) encountered other archaic human species, most notably Neanderthals and Denisovans, when they left Africa and spread across Europe and Asia ~60,000 years ago. They interbred with them, and modern human genomes retain DNA inherited from these interbreeding events. High quality (high coverage) ancient human genomes have recently been sequenced allowing for a direct estimation of individual heterozygosity, which has shown that genetic diversity in these archaic human groups was very low, indicating low population sizes. In this study, we analyze ten ancient human genome-wide data, including four sequenced with high-coverage. We screened these ancient genome-wide data for pathogenic mutations associated with monogenic diseases, and established unusual aggregation of pathogenic mutations in individual subjects, including quadruple homozygous cases of pathogenic variants in the PAH gene associated with the condition phenylketonuria in a ~120,000 ye...
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From the Huns to the Turks. Mounted Warriors in Europe and Central Asia. Tagungen des Landesmuseums für Vorgeschichte Halle - Band 23, 2021
This article discusses a group of pre-Christian buildings in Danubian Bulgaria that are considere... more This article discusses a group of pre-Christian buildings in Danubian Bulgaria that are considered to be part of a pagan cult. The archaeological features of these structures are discussed and various scholarly views are taken into consideration. Different analogies from the Saltovo culture, the Caucasus and Sasanian Iran are compared with the structures under consideration. Related small finds such as medallions and clay models are considered. The possible routes for the distribution of model temples are analysed and the proposed influences from Zoroastrianism are taken into consideration.
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Ancient DNA analysis on the ancestry of European populations conducted in the last decade came to... more Ancient DNA analysis on the ancestry of European populations conducted in the last decade came to the puzzling conclusion that while all contemporary European populations can be best represented as an admixture of 3 ancestral populations –Early European Neolithic farmers (ENF), Western Hunter-Gatherers (WHG) and Ancestral North Eurasians (ANE), contemporary Bulgarians and few other SEE populations can also be represented as an admixture of two groups only – Early European Neolithic farmers and contemporary Caucasian people equally well.If modeled as an admixture of two groups only, the ANE component presented in contemporary Bulgarians would have arrived on the Balkans with hypothetical ANE (Ancestral North Eurasians)-rich Caucasian population. In this paper, we test the hypothesis that increased Caucasian component in contemporary SE Europeans, has been introduced on the Balkans by migrating Iron Age steppe dwellers from Pontic-Caspian steppe. We analyze available DNA datasets from...
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The book gives and overview of various features and elements of Protobulgarian culture(s) that co... more The book gives and overview of various features and elements of Protobulgarian culture(s) that could be related to the vast heritage of Sasanian Iran. The focus falls on architecture - monuments as the Madara horseman, palaces, fire temples, building techniques, but also on metalwork. The overal conclusion is that the Protobulgarian elite's tastes and views were heavily influenced by Sasanian Iran during the long period when they inhabited the Ciscaucasus area and were neighbours of this empire.
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Laurea. In honorem Margaritae Vaklinova, vol 2. Sofia , 2009
Todor Chobanov THE EASTERN ROOTS OF THE MADARA HORSEMAN. published in: "Laurea. In honorem Margar... more Todor Chobanov THE EASTERN ROOTS OF THE MADARA HORSEMAN. published in: "Laurea. In honorem Margaritae Vaklinova", vol 2. София 2009, с.79-98 ISBN 978-954-92395-2-2, translation: Iordan Nikolov, Todor Chobanov
The choice of the Madara horseman as a symbol of Bulgaria in 2008 by a national voting is a good occasion to focus our attention towards this remarkable monument rightfully present among the list of UNESCO world heritage sites. The Madara horseman (Fig.1) was the subject of direct study in a large number of publications (Velkov 1956, Dimitrova 1994, Rashev 2008:212).Emerging from these studies are also the particular questions regarding the monument's style, iconograpghy, composition and details (Katsarov 1925, Miyatev 1929, Filov 1934, Venedikov 1956, Gerasimov 1956, Stanchev 1956, Mavrodinov 1958, 69-74, Minaeva 1990). There are several objectives of the present article. First of all, to analyze the Byzantine and eastern parallels of the monument and to present its little-known analogues from the Sassanid cultural circle. Another issue-regarding the craftsmen/masters who made the rock relief and their links to a certain artistic tradition will be discussed. The problem with the dating of the Madara horseman will also be reviewed. At the same time, an attempt will be made to clarify the power and sacred believes that motivated the ordering of the monument by the Bulgarian rulers. Fortified at the end of the VII century on ancient Roman territories, Danube Bulgaria had to constantly prove its right to rule them, given that its southern border was located in close proximity to the capital of Byzantium. "The Bulgarian political elite was faced with the task of legitimizing the power of the Bulgarian ruler over the newly conquered territories both in the eyes of the subjects and in front of neighboring Byzantium." » (Stepanov 1999: 119) In the early Middle Ages, the establishment of state authority was carried out mainly in two ways: through successful military conquests and through the means of art, among which a key role was played by monumental architecture-palaces, temples, representative fortresses. A central place in the manifestations of official art, completely in the spirit of the era, was occupied by the monarch-ruler. He was the center of public life and was identified with the state he ruled. His successes and power were the most important themes developed by medieval artists. An elite art linked to the ruler was created, developing standard iconographic schemes and plots, within a common fashion, that spread over a huge areal-from Western Europe to Central Asia. The main role in establishing PAGE 79
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The present study aims to properly introduce the newly acquired genetic data from various surveys... more The present study aims to properly introduce the newly acquired genetic data from various surveys into the debate for the origin of the Proto-Bulgarians. A part of the research focuses on the archaeological definition of Proto-Bulgarians with all their key features, identifying the most likely key area of Proto-Bulgarian ethnogenesis-the Kuban River area. The archaeological features that prove solid contacts with early Alans are discussed, as the emerging of biritualism or even multiritualism in the same zone. Аvailable genetic data are processed with the Past software to produce principle component analysis (PCA) for the modern Bulgarians, comparing them with various ancient populations. The results prove close ties with Saltovo-Mayaki peoples and particularly with Caucasian Alans. Based on this observation and particularly the placing of various Alan samples firmly within the phylogenetic tree of modern Bulgarians, the enthno-genesis zone of the Proto-Bulgarians is reviewed again and its early start-1st-2nd c.-is confirmed. The general conclusion is that Proto-Bulgarians were a mixture of Late Sarmatians and older Caucasus populations, closely related to the Alans and preserving their genetic inheritance, even after arriving on the Balkans and mixing with Slav peoples and the remnants of the local Late Antiquity peoples. The present-day country of Bulgaria, often designated as "Danube Bul-garia" in various archaeological and historical works, was established during the centuries following the Hun period in Europe and undoubtedly represents one of the most enduring results of the Migration period in Europe (Völkerwander-ung in German). The identity and origin of the people who stood behind this enduring act of state-creation still remain unclear and often hotly debated. The historical, archaeological, onomastic and linguistic research that started in the 18th c. allowed scientists both domestic and foreign to reach certain conclusions grouped in around several major theories. The most comprehensive summary on the matter in the late 20th c. was provided by Veselin Beshev-liev. He summarized that there were in the past four major theories about the
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On the 'sharaptash' sacrificial altars and their rolein the religious practices of proto-Bulgarianpaganism . сп.Археология 1-4 2008, 2008
The article presents two newly-found and sofar unknown proto-Bulgarian sacrificial altars,als... more The article presents two newly-found and sofar unknown proto-Bulgarian sacrificial altars,also known as wine-presses, the Turkish wordfor which is 'sharaptash'. One of them has beenhanded over to the Regional Museum of Historyin Varna and the other is being kept in the lap-idarium of the museum in Bilhorod-Dnistrovsky(in Ukrainian, Akkerman or BelgorodPridnestrovski - in respectively Turkish andBulgarian). Both finds are similar to thoseknown so far in size and design, but also havecertain specific features. The sharaptash fromVarna is the second known so far to have later-al grooves; they might have been used for fix-ing it upon a wooden or stone base. The twonew artefacts further widen the spread of thiskind of proto-Bulgarian sacrificial altars, whichhave been found east of Varna and as far northas Akkerman.The special features of this type of artefacts,which make of them a unique group related tothe rituals of proto-Bulgarian paganism, arepresented concisely. They were found in the socalled 'zone of the initial settlement' ofAsparuh's Bulgarians and should, therefore, beassociated with precisely these settlers. Theabove zone largely overlaps with the zone ofspread of proto-Bulgarian pagan temples thatfeature a ground-plan of squares or rectanglesinscribed into one another.All sacrificial altars are similar to one anoth-er in size and structure, the only differencebeing the direction of the hewn grooves - theymay join together or separately reach either theindispensable spout or a small quadrangularpool. Normally, the grooves will uniformly sur-round a small-sized central square. The abovecharacteristics may serve as grounds for theassumption that liquids were poured onto thesacrificial altars. On spilling at the surface theywould outline one or several squares, inscribedinto one another. This peculiarity leads to theconclusion that the altars, like the protoBulgarian heathen shrines with ground plans ofinscribed squares or quadrangles, were symbolsof the world as well as the harmony of materi-al and non-material realities.Some important sources for proto Bulgarianheathenism along with the pagan ritual practicesof Turki, Huns, Persians, and Scythians havealso been analyzed in the article. It is tradition-ally accepted that sacrificial animals wereslaughtered upon the altars from the LowerDanube, their blood flowing into the pool or onthe ground through the spout, with the groundbeing used in the religious cult thereafter. Acritical view has been proposed concerning theopinion that dogs were the most important sac-rificial animals, as there is no single source totestify to such a ritual with Bulgarians. It is alsoa matter of dispute whether the slaying of dogs,described by Theophanes Continuatus, refers toBulgarians or is rather an interpolation of sub-sequent events. In view of the fact that the sac-rificial altars, found so far, are far too numer-ous, it is doubtful that dogs were regularly slainthere. In accordance with various data, includ-ing written sources, the dog was recognized asa sacred animal with Bulgarians and should,therefore, have only been sacrificed on veryspecial occasions such as the peace treatybetween Bulgaria and Byzantium, described byTheophanes Continuatus and other sources.Taking into account the bone compositionfrom the finds in the thoroughly examinedshrine in Zlatna Niva locality near Pliska, theconclusion has been made that the sacrificialanimals were predominantly cattle, sheep andgoats along with horses and birds, rather thandogs. The meat of the former was probablyOn the 'sharaptash' sacrificial altars and their rolein the religious practices of proto-Bulgarianpaganism (Summary)Todor Chobanov
170solemnly eaten, as implied in the work ofTheophylactus of Ochrida, dedicated to themartyr Cinamon of Byzantium.A new hypothesis has been put forwardregarding the rituals that were performed uponthe sacrificial altars. It has been assumed thatwater was the substance used in the rituals ongrounds of the water pools, found in some ofthe shrines, as well as on grounds of the infor-mation of Scriptor incertusabout the rituals per-formed by khan Krum near Constantinople, andthe water-related conjuring formula from theChatalar inscription. It was water, or other liq-uids such as wine, 'kumis' (fermented maremilk), and milk, that were poured upon thestone altars as part of the pagan rituals. Similarpractices are known to have been performed inZoroastrian ceremonies; in addition, protoBulgarian 'kapishte' shrines bear a close resem-blance to the Zoroastrian fire shrines in shapeand design. Slaughtering the sacrificial animalsprobably took place at a more or less distantlocation and it is rather unverifiable that theirblood was poured onto the altars.
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The present article analyzes the fifth and presently existing building period of the St. Sophia c... more The present article analyzes the fifth and presently existing building period of the St. Sophia church in Sofia, Bulgaria. The analysis begins with an overview of the temples significance for the present day Bulgarian capital that owns its name to the very same church. A brief information about the excavations carried during different periods is presented, emphasizing on the latest research period (1997-2008). Information about the different mosaic floors/floor levels is discussed and the chronology of the periods is established. The main part of the research is focused on the fifth building period church, roughly dated in the mid-6 th century and belonging to Justinian the Great's building program. A metric study of this structure is presented, leading to conclusion that key similarities are evident with the contemporary structures in Constantinople. The metric features of the capital building program are evident strengthening the conclusion of Justinian's role for the construction of the fifth period church.
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Научно-популярна книга, посветена на включването на България в Православната цивилизация, обхваща... more Научно-популярна книга, посветена на включването на България в Православната цивилизация, обхваща голяма част от историята на Първото българско царство
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A central question regarding the palatial architecture of pre-Christian Bulgaria (681-865) is tha... more A central question regarding the palatial architecture of pre-Christian Bulgaria (681-865) is that of the master builders who erected those buildings for the Bulgar aristocrats. A thorough examination is necessary of the combination between the demand and tastes of the pagan elite and the offer and repertoire of the building masters in order to explain some specific features of the structures in question. The question of the identity of the master builders who erected the palatial buildings and of their origin is closely related to the general question about the origin of monumental architecture in pre-Christian Bulgaria. It is not easy to find the answer to that question, primarily because during the early Middle Ages, artisans were rarely, if ever mentioned (Ousterhout 1999, 103-119) and therefore we know next to nothing about their personalities and background. In the history of pre-Christian Bulgaria there is, however, one exception, namely that of Eumathius, a known μηχανικóς, who entered the service of Bulgarian khan Krum after the capture of Serdica (now Bulgarian capital Sofia) in 809. Another one or the same master builder who served Krum was an Arab (or Persian) convert to Christianity, perhaps one of the many educated Persians who served the Caliphate in that period (Frye 1993, passim). Steven Runciman dedicated a long passage of his work on the First Bulgarian Empire (681-1018) to Eumathius the μηχανικóς and to his escape to Krum. According to Runciman, Eumathius' choice of a new patron was financial, the Byzantine emperor refused to pay enough or in time. " Eumathius, " wrote Runciman, " was always hired for the repair of fortresses… the insult forced him to betrayal " (Рънсиман 1993, 58). Money and resources were the main incentives for the mobility of the master builders. Throughout the eighth century, master builders like Eumathius were often employed by the Arabs, although there seems to have been a gradual change in the scale and type of palace construction with the Abbasid coup of 750. The new elite of the Caliphate, strongly influenced by the Persian culture, moved to live in cities as opposed to the " desert palaces " (badaya) of the Umayyad period. The demand for master builders seems therefore to have diminished. At the same time, seventh-to eighth-century Byzantium was still on its way to economic recovery. Most resources invested in buildings were for fortifications, especially for repair works. It is therefore quite likely that master builders, both Byzantine and " Arab, " sought new opportunities for employment, including work for the Bulgarian rulers. The latter appear to have accumulated significant amounts of money. There was no coinage in the economy of pre-Christian Bulgaria, but the Bulgarian rulers regularly received monetary payments from Byzantium in the form of tribute or as a result of trade. This specific situation may explain why one or more master builders would be eager to work in the early 800s for the Bulgarian rulers. Who were the master builders during the early Middle Ages and what exactly they were hired to do? The ninth-to tenth-century master builders in Byzantium certainly did not have the theoretical knowledge of the late antique master builders,
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Bulgarian Rulers names and representative trilateral buildings from the Caucasus region
БЪЛГАРСКИ... more Bulgarian Rulers names and representative trilateral buildings from the Caucasus region
БЪЛГАРСКИ ВЛАДЕТЕЛСКИ ИМЕНА И ПРЕДСТАВИТЕЛ НИ ТРИДЕЛ НИ СГРАДИ ОТ РАЙОНА НА КАВКАЗ - статия
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Drafts by Todor Chobanov
The debate about the origin of Protobulgarians in the beginning of the 21st century, 2021
The book addresses the century old debate about the origin of Protobulgarians and thus contempora... more The book addresses the century old debate about the origin of Protobulgarians and thus contemporary Bulgarians. It includes data about most academic research carried to now and for the first time combines genetic data gathered to the present moment with the massive archaeological data existing in the field.
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Books by Todor Chobanov
Свещените дворци на българските канове, 2008
The book covers the various question related to the origins, emergence and meaning of (Proto)bulg... more The book covers the various question related to the origins, emergence and meaning of (Proto)bulgarian monumental architecture on the Lower Danube 680 - 1018. It contains a detailed catalogue and large summary in English.
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Conference Presentations by Todor Chobanov
Dear colleagues,
We are pleased to announce that IBSCT-BAN in collaboration with NAIM-BAN will b... more Dear colleagues,
We are pleased to announce that IBSCT-BAN in collaboration with NAIM-BAN will be hosting a conference, themed "Modern technologies and interdisciplinary approach to cultural heritage". Conference will take place at NIA Pliska and is scheduled for June 29th-30th, 2023.
The cutting-edge technologies of the 21st century have paved the way for a new level of studying and preserving cultural heritage. Interdisciplinary methods expand the toolkit of individual historical disciplines and provide invaluable information that could not be obtained through traditional methods. These modern technologies also allow for new investigations of well-known landmarks and new interpretations, furthering our understanding of the past. Together, these contemporary methods and technologies allow for much better socialization of cultural heritage.
Conference themes would address the trend of rising importance of new technologies in the humanities and the growing significance of interdisciplinary approaches in research both at home and abroad.
The purpose of the conference is to enhance understanding of the role that technology play in the advancement of historical knowledge. Secondly, it would address the need to popularize emerging interdisciplinary methods for studying the past. Special emphasis will be placed on topics such as paleogenetic studies, the application of new technologies to significant historical objects, and the creation and operation of modern scientific eco-systems that bring together scholars from different organizations and countries.
"Modern technologies and interdisciplinary approach to cultural heritage" is a comprehensive topic that is addressed to representatives of various disciplines in the humanities, social, and technical sciences. Geneticists, anthropologists, archaeologists, historians, art historians, and digital heritage experts can also make valuable contributions to the topics discussed, along with experts in conservation and restoration, museum specialists, and cultural tourism experts. The conference will include reports that explore various theoretical aspects of the topics above, as well as reports presenting practical solutions and case studies.
The main accents in the conference work, which outline the scope but do not contain all variety of topics, will be:
New technologies applied to the study and preservation of cultural heritage.
Interdisciplinary approaches to cultural heritage.
Digitalization of cultural values and socialization through digital environment.
Paleogenetic methods and their development in recent years.
Creation and functioning of scientific networks and eco-systems.
Popularization of scientific activity.
Cultural tourism as a tool for socialization and preservation of cultural heritage.
Modern approaches to the conservation and restoration of cultural values.
Non-destructive investigation of archaeological objects.
Presentation of specific already completed or still developing projects.
Please submit your applications for participation by May 28, 2023. Applications should highlight the topic of the proposed presentation (in English), include a summary (up to 300 words) and should be sent to:
conference@balkanstudies.bg
The approved proposals will be announced by May 31, 2023.
No participation fee is required. Accommodation, food, and travel expenses of participants from other cities are at their own expense. Remote participation will be also possible.
If you have any questions don’t hesitate to contact us.
Thank you for your participation and we look forward to seeing you on June 29th!
Sincerely,
Conference Planning Committee
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The conference is dedicated to the 150th anniversary of the discovery of the Madara Horseman for ... more The conference is dedicated to the 150th anniversary of the discovery of the Madara Horseman for Science by Felix Kanitz in 1872. The cult of the ruler, its ideology and practice and the related official art are among the most interesting and challenging issues of historical knowledge. In different cultural circles and societies the manifestations of the ruling cult have a diverse character, and their study from a modern perspective helps us to get a deeper and truer knowledge of the past. The theme of the conference fits into the tradition of Balkan studies and archeology in Bulgaria with internationally renowned contributions to the study of the ruling cult in antiquity and the Middle Ages. At the same time, it is relevant for the present and the future, insofar as it draws attention to issues of great public importance, which are also relevant to social development in the 21st century. The aim of the conference is to analyze the current state of research on the topic and to highlight prospects for future research. Secondly, it is important to offer a new, modern reading of some seemingly familiar images, objects, events and processes, as well as to discuss the application of innovative and multidisciplinary research approaches. Particular attention will be paid to topics such as the importance of personality for art, the choice of art forms to represent the ruling ideology, the sense of historicity in the past and today, the manifestations of authority and their development in different eras, the relationship between the ruling cult and statehood.. "The cult of the ruler in antiquity and the Middle Ages" is a multidisciplinary topic, which is addressed to representatives of various fields in the humanities and social sciences. Archaeologists, historians, art critics and experts in the digitization of cultural and historical heritage can make a valuable contribution to the subject. The conference will include reports examining various historical aspects of the topic, as well as those that theoretically analyze it. The main highlights of the conference, which outline the scope but do not exhaust the variety of topics, will be: • The Balkans as a crossroads of the ruling ideology of East and West • The cult of the ruler in Antiquity and the Middle Ages • The notions of the ruling ideology • Ruler's monuments • Coinage and the cult of the ruler • Power and continuity in the Balkans • The cult of the ruler and the image of the woman • The cult of the ruler and the urban spaces • The ruler in official and folk art • Everyday life and festivity-the role of the ruler • The Monarchical Institute of the Balkans-manifestation and significance • Digital presentation of monuments related to the ruling cult and access to information.
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Uploads
Papers by Todor Chobanov
The choice of the Madara horseman as a symbol of Bulgaria in 2008 by a national voting is a good occasion to focus our attention towards this remarkable monument rightfully present among the list of UNESCO world heritage sites. The Madara horseman (Fig.1) was the subject of direct study in a large number of publications (Velkov 1956, Dimitrova 1994, Rashev 2008:212).Emerging from these studies are also the particular questions regarding the monument's style, iconograpghy, composition and details (Katsarov 1925, Miyatev 1929, Filov 1934, Venedikov 1956, Gerasimov 1956, Stanchev 1956, Mavrodinov 1958, 69-74, Minaeva 1990). There are several objectives of the present article. First of all, to analyze the Byzantine and eastern parallels of the monument and to present its little-known analogues from the Sassanid cultural circle. Another issue-regarding the craftsmen/masters who made the rock relief and their links to a certain artistic tradition will be discussed. The problem with the dating of the Madara horseman will also be reviewed. At the same time, an attempt will be made to clarify the power and sacred believes that motivated the ordering of the monument by the Bulgarian rulers. Fortified at the end of the VII century on ancient Roman territories, Danube Bulgaria had to constantly prove its right to rule them, given that its southern border was located in close proximity to the capital of Byzantium. "The Bulgarian political elite was faced with the task of legitimizing the power of the Bulgarian ruler over the newly conquered territories both in the eyes of the subjects and in front of neighboring Byzantium." » (Stepanov 1999: 119) In the early Middle Ages, the establishment of state authority was carried out mainly in two ways: through successful military conquests and through the means of art, among which a key role was played by monumental architecture-palaces, temples, representative fortresses. A central place in the manifestations of official art, completely in the spirit of the era, was occupied by the monarch-ruler. He was the center of public life and was identified with the state he ruled. His successes and power were the most important themes developed by medieval artists. An elite art linked to the ruler was created, developing standard iconographic schemes and plots, within a common fashion, that spread over a huge areal-from Western Europe to Central Asia. The main role in establishing PAGE 79
170solemnly eaten, as implied in the work ofTheophylactus of Ochrida, dedicated to themartyr Cinamon of Byzantium.A new hypothesis has been put forwardregarding the rituals that were performed uponthe sacrificial altars. It has been assumed thatwater was the substance used in the rituals ongrounds of the water pools, found in some ofthe shrines, as well as on grounds of the infor-mation of Scriptor incertusabout the rituals per-formed by khan Krum near Constantinople, andthe water-related conjuring formula from theChatalar inscription. It was water, or other liq-uids such as wine, 'kumis' (fermented maremilk), and milk, that were poured upon thestone altars as part of the pagan rituals. Similarpractices are known to have been performed inZoroastrian ceremonies; in addition, protoBulgarian 'kapishte' shrines bear a close resem-blance to the Zoroastrian fire shrines in shapeand design. Slaughtering the sacrificial animalsprobably took place at a more or less distantlocation and it is rather unverifiable that theirblood was poured onto the altars.
БЪЛГАРСКИ ВЛАДЕТЕЛСКИ ИМЕНА И ПРЕДСТАВИТЕЛ НИ ТРИДЕЛ НИ СГРАДИ ОТ РАЙОНА НА КАВКАЗ - статия
Drafts by Todor Chobanov
Books by Todor Chobanov
Conference Presentations by Todor Chobanov
We are pleased to announce that IBSCT-BAN in collaboration with NAIM-BAN will be hosting a conference, themed "Modern technologies and interdisciplinary approach to cultural heritage". Conference will take place at NIA Pliska and is scheduled for June 29th-30th, 2023.
The cutting-edge technologies of the 21st century have paved the way for a new level of studying and preserving cultural heritage. Interdisciplinary methods expand the toolkit of individual historical disciplines and provide invaluable information that could not be obtained through traditional methods. These modern technologies also allow for new investigations of well-known landmarks and new interpretations, furthering our understanding of the past. Together, these contemporary methods and technologies allow for much better socialization of cultural heritage.
Conference themes would address the trend of rising importance of new technologies in the humanities and the growing significance of interdisciplinary approaches in research both at home and abroad.
The purpose of the conference is to enhance understanding of the role that technology play in the advancement of historical knowledge. Secondly, it would address the need to popularize emerging interdisciplinary methods for studying the past. Special emphasis will be placed on topics such as paleogenetic studies, the application of new technologies to significant historical objects, and the creation and operation of modern scientific eco-systems that bring together scholars from different organizations and countries.
"Modern technologies and interdisciplinary approach to cultural heritage" is a comprehensive topic that is addressed to representatives of various disciplines in the humanities, social, and technical sciences. Geneticists, anthropologists, archaeologists, historians, art historians, and digital heritage experts can also make valuable contributions to the topics discussed, along with experts in conservation and restoration, museum specialists, and cultural tourism experts. The conference will include reports that explore various theoretical aspects of the topics above, as well as reports presenting practical solutions and case studies.
The main accents in the conference work, which outline the scope but do not contain all variety of topics, will be:
New technologies applied to the study and preservation of cultural heritage.
Interdisciplinary approaches to cultural heritage.
Digitalization of cultural values and socialization through digital environment.
Paleogenetic methods and their development in recent years.
Creation and functioning of scientific networks and eco-systems.
Popularization of scientific activity.
Cultural tourism as a tool for socialization and preservation of cultural heritage.
Modern approaches to the conservation and restoration of cultural values.
Non-destructive investigation of archaeological objects.
Presentation of specific already completed or still developing projects.
Please submit your applications for participation by May 28, 2023. Applications should highlight the topic of the proposed presentation (in English), include a summary (up to 300 words) and should be sent to:
conference@balkanstudies.bg
The approved proposals will be announced by May 31, 2023.
No participation fee is required. Accommodation, food, and travel expenses of participants from other cities are at their own expense. Remote participation will be also possible.
If you have any questions don’t hesitate to contact us.
Thank you for your participation and we look forward to seeing you on June 29th!
Sincerely,
Conference Planning Committee
The choice of the Madara horseman as a symbol of Bulgaria in 2008 by a national voting is a good occasion to focus our attention towards this remarkable monument rightfully present among the list of UNESCO world heritage sites. The Madara horseman (Fig.1) was the subject of direct study in a large number of publications (Velkov 1956, Dimitrova 1994, Rashev 2008:212).Emerging from these studies are also the particular questions regarding the monument's style, iconograpghy, composition and details (Katsarov 1925, Miyatev 1929, Filov 1934, Venedikov 1956, Gerasimov 1956, Stanchev 1956, Mavrodinov 1958, 69-74, Minaeva 1990). There are several objectives of the present article. First of all, to analyze the Byzantine and eastern parallels of the monument and to present its little-known analogues from the Sassanid cultural circle. Another issue-regarding the craftsmen/masters who made the rock relief and their links to a certain artistic tradition will be discussed. The problem with the dating of the Madara horseman will also be reviewed. At the same time, an attempt will be made to clarify the power and sacred believes that motivated the ordering of the monument by the Bulgarian rulers. Fortified at the end of the VII century on ancient Roman territories, Danube Bulgaria had to constantly prove its right to rule them, given that its southern border was located in close proximity to the capital of Byzantium. "The Bulgarian political elite was faced with the task of legitimizing the power of the Bulgarian ruler over the newly conquered territories both in the eyes of the subjects and in front of neighboring Byzantium." » (Stepanov 1999: 119) In the early Middle Ages, the establishment of state authority was carried out mainly in two ways: through successful military conquests and through the means of art, among which a key role was played by monumental architecture-palaces, temples, representative fortresses. A central place in the manifestations of official art, completely in the spirit of the era, was occupied by the monarch-ruler. He was the center of public life and was identified with the state he ruled. His successes and power were the most important themes developed by medieval artists. An elite art linked to the ruler was created, developing standard iconographic schemes and plots, within a common fashion, that spread over a huge areal-from Western Europe to Central Asia. The main role in establishing PAGE 79
170solemnly eaten, as implied in the work ofTheophylactus of Ochrida, dedicated to themartyr Cinamon of Byzantium.A new hypothesis has been put forwardregarding the rituals that were performed uponthe sacrificial altars. It has been assumed thatwater was the substance used in the rituals ongrounds of the water pools, found in some ofthe shrines, as well as on grounds of the infor-mation of Scriptor incertusabout the rituals per-formed by khan Krum near Constantinople, andthe water-related conjuring formula from theChatalar inscription. It was water, or other liq-uids such as wine, 'kumis' (fermented maremilk), and milk, that were poured upon thestone altars as part of the pagan rituals. Similarpractices are known to have been performed inZoroastrian ceremonies; in addition, protoBulgarian 'kapishte' shrines bear a close resem-blance to the Zoroastrian fire shrines in shapeand design. Slaughtering the sacrificial animalsprobably took place at a more or less distantlocation and it is rather unverifiable that theirblood was poured onto the altars.
БЪЛГАРСКИ ВЛАДЕТЕЛСКИ ИМЕНА И ПРЕДСТАВИТЕЛ НИ ТРИДЕЛ НИ СГРАДИ ОТ РАЙОНА НА КАВКАЗ - статия
We are pleased to announce that IBSCT-BAN in collaboration with NAIM-BAN will be hosting a conference, themed "Modern technologies and interdisciplinary approach to cultural heritage". Conference will take place at NIA Pliska and is scheduled for June 29th-30th, 2023.
The cutting-edge technologies of the 21st century have paved the way for a new level of studying and preserving cultural heritage. Interdisciplinary methods expand the toolkit of individual historical disciplines and provide invaluable information that could not be obtained through traditional methods. These modern technologies also allow for new investigations of well-known landmarks and new interpretations, furthering our understanding of the past. Together, these contemporary methods and technologies allow for much better socialization of cultural heritage.
Conference themes would address the trend of rising importance of new technologies in the humanities and the growing significance of interdisciplinary approaches in research both at home and abroad.
The purpose of the conference is to enhance understanding of the role that technology play in the advancement of historical knowledge. Secondly, it would address the need to popularize emerging interdisciplinary methods for studying the past. Special emphasis will be placed on topics such as paleogenetic studies, the application of new technologies to significant historical objects, and the creation and operation of modern scientific eco-systems that bring together scholars from different organizations and countries.
"Modern technologies and interdisciplinary approach to cultural heritage" is a comprehensive topic that is addressed to representatives of various disciplines in the humanities, social, and technical sciences. Geneticists, anthropologists, archaeologists, historians, art historians, and digital heritage experts can also make valuable contributions to the topics discussed, along with experts in conservation and restoration, museum specialists, and cultural tourism experts. The conference will include reports that explore various theoretical aspects of the topics above, as well as reports presenting practical solutions and case studies.
The main accents in the conference work, which outline the scope but do not contain all variety of topics, will be:
New technologies applied to the study and preservation of cultural heritage.
Interdisciplinary approaches to cultural heritage.
Digitalization of cultural values and socialization through digital environment.
Paleogenetic methods and their development in recent years.
Creation and functioning of scientific networks and eco-systems.
Popularization of scientific activity.
Cultural tourism as a tool for socialization and preservation of cultural heritage.
Modern approaches to the conservation and restoration of cultural values.
Non-destructive investigation of archaeological objects.
Presentation of specific already completed or still developing projects.
Please submit your applications for participation by May 28, 2023. Applications should highlight the topic of the proposed presentation (in English), include a summary (up to 300 words) and should be sent to:
conference@balkanstudies.bg
The approved proposals will be announced by May 31, 2023.
No participation fee is required. Accommodation, food, and travel expenses of participants from other cities are at their own expense. Remote participation will be also possible.
If you have any questions don’t hesitate to contact us.
Thank you for your participation and we look forward to seeing you on June 29th!
Sincerely,
Conference Planning Committee