As part of their training programme, the trainee attachés of the 20th “Dimitar Stanchov” cohort visited an exhibition dedicated to Mount Athos by the multidisciplinary artist Makis Warlamis, hosted at the National Palace of Culture in Sofia.

During the visit, they had the opportunity to speak with the exhibition’s curator, Mr. Pavlos Trokhopoulos, who introduced them to the daily life of the monks on Mount Athos and the spiritual traditions of the Holy Mountain. He highlighted the significance of the exhibition, emphasising that young people need not only information about cultural heritage, but also the opportunity to experience it as an alternative to consumerism.

The visit highlighted the importance of cultural and religious dialogue and demonstrated how art and diplomacy can intersect, creating opportunities for mutual understanding and intercultural exchange. The exhibition received partial funding from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Hellenic Republic.

The visit was also attended by Ms. Evgenia Benyatoglou, Deputy Head of the Greek Diplomatic Mission in Sofia. She emphasised the excellent bilateral relations between Bulgaria and Greece and extended special congratulations to the Bulgarian trainee attachés on the professional career path they have chosen.