Podcast in English
Text size
Bulgarian National Radio © 2025 All Rights Reserved

Christians honour St George the Victorious

Icon of Saint George, 14th century, Constantinople.
Photo: Archive

Today, the Orthodox Church commemorates St George the Victorious, recognised as one of the earliest martyrs for the faith.

Living during the reign of the Roman Emperor Diocletian, St George joined the army at a young age. By the time he was twenty, he had risen to the ranks of the Council of State. However, when the persecution of Christians began, he steadfastly refused to take part in it. Enduring various tortures for his unwavering faith, he inspired many to embrace Christianity, including Alexandra, the Emperor's wife. As a result, the emperor ordered St George to be beheaded with a sword.

For Bulgarians, the feast of St George is of great national significance, symbolising the beginning of summer and the new agricultural cycle. Traditionally, a kurban is offered in honour of St George, accompanied by the roasting of a lamb, and the whole family gathers for a festive meal.



Последвайте ни и в Google News Showcase, за да научите най-важното от деня!
Listen to the daily news from Bulgaria presented in "Bulgaria Today" podcast, available in Spotify.

More from category

The LUNAR Festival is taking over the southern Black Sea coast with its "Sea of Lights"

The first summer edition of the LUNAR festival - Sea of Lights - will start today on the southern Black Sea coast . From 1 to 4 August, it will transform the urban environment and captivating natural landmarks along the seashore through 3D mapping..

published on 8/1/25 8:55 AM

Iglika Carpet Fest tells the story of Bulgaria in carpets

Iglika, the scenic village near Gabrovo, is transforming its streets and yards into an enormous open-air exhibition plaza. From 1 to 3 August, Iglika Carpet Fest is showing an impressive collection of almost 900 18 th , 19 th and 20 th century..

published on 8/1/25 7:33 AM

Vesela Raytchinova from Israel: Bulgarians must protect their soul – and the peace in their country

One month after the dramatic events in Bat Yam , where thirteen Bulgarian artists were forced to take shelter in a bomb bunker during Iran’s missile attack on Israel, the organisers and participants of the international festival Bulgarian Soul in the..

published on 7/28/25 9:55 PM