Metropolitan of Drama to Greek Culture Minister: What will happen to remaining ecclesiastical treasures?

Metropolitan Dorotheos of Drama has expressed serious reservations about the agreement between Greece and Bulgaria for the return of 48 ecclesiastical treasures in exchange for the remains attributed to Tsar Samuel, raising concerns about Greece’s ability to secure the repatriation of hundreds of other religious artifacts and manuscripts.

In a letter addressed to Greek Minister of Culture Lina Mendoni, the Metropolitan questioned the terms of the agreement and warned that transferring Tsar Samuel’s remains to Bulgaria could weaken Greece’s negotiating position in future efforts to recover the remaining ecclesiastical treasures.

According to Metropolitan Dorotheos, approximately 800 ecclesiastical artifacts and 430 manuscripts were removed from the Monastery of Panagia Eikosifoinissa alone.

Metropolitan Dorotheos: I learned about the agreement through the media In his letter, the Metropolitan expressed disappointment that he had not been informed about the agreement or invited to participate in consultations, despite his repeated communications with the Minister of Culture.

He explained that during their regular telephone conversations and personal meetings, he…