International Photo-Exhibition In Burgas
The Regional Historical Museum in the city of Burgas, in partnership with the State Institute for Culture under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, presents the international photographic exhibition "National Dress: a Source of Pride and Heritage", organized by the Global Public Diplomacy Network (GPDNet) – Doha, Qatar. The official opening of the exhibition will take place on September 4, and it will be available for viewing until the end of October 2025.
This remarkable photographic exhibition highlights the beauty and cultural significance of traditional costumes from 17 member countries of the international organization GPDNet, of which the State Institute for Culture to the MFA has been a full member since 2021. The exhibition includes authentic photographs that capture the essence of traditional clothing - a key element of cultural heritage and global diversity. Among the exhibits are four professional photographs of Bulgarian folk costumes, selected from the collection of Svetoslav Petrov and taken by photographer Petya Dobreva, included in the exhibition with the assistance of Ani Yoveva, curator at the Historical Museum - Samokov.
First unveiled at the 9th General Assembly of GPDNet in Doha, Qatar in May 2024, the exhibition embarked on an international tour, returning to Bulgaria for a second time. Its first presentation took place as part of the accompanying program of the International Conference "Cultural Diplomacy and the Balkans - Achievements and Challenges in the Contemporary Era," organized by the Institute of Balkan Studies with a Center of Thracology at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences in collaboration with the State Institute for Culture under the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Culture, which took place on October 23, 2024, at the National Art Gallery "Square 500."
The national costume represents the unique identity and rich history of a nation. By showcasing traditional garments, the exhibition aims to preserve the deeply rooted heritage of each participating country. In a time of global division, this exhibition promotes a better understanding and appreciation of cultural diversity, highlighting what makes each nation different.
Established in 2014 in Seoul, GPDNet is a global platform for cultural, academic, and civic exchange, uniting 29 member countries to promote international cooperation through public diplomacy. Since 2019, the Qatar Foundation in Doha has held the rotating presidency of the organization, leading efforts to enhance intercultural dialogue. Bulgaria became a full member of GPDNet in 2021 with the support of the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in Doha.
The exhibition at the Regional Historical Museum - Burgas offers all visitors the opportunity to enjoy the cultural wealth embodied in the traditional clothing of GPDNet member states. This is a celebration of the timeless beauty and significance of national attire as a source of pride and heritage.