At Vrana Palace, a ceremonial validation of the new postal issue “Bulgarian Queens” took place - a project that unites different eras of Bulgarian statehood and pays well‑deserved tribute to the women who left a lasting mark on our history. The ceremony was attended by the Minister of Transport and Communications Georgi Peev, the Honorary Chairman of the Union of Bulgarian Philatelists H.M. Simeon Saxe‑Coburg‑Gotha, the Chairman of the UBF Spas Panchev, the CEO of Bulgarian Posts Zdravko Anakiev, and the artist behind the issue, Todor Angeliev. They performed the official act of validation, thus inscribing the series into the national philatelic heritage.
A particularly notable moment came when H.M. Simeon Saxe‑Coburg‑Gotha presented the “For Merit to the UBF” medal to Tatyana Popova - owner of “Avanti 777” and one of the most significant sponsors of the international philatelic exhibition Balkanphila 2026. The distinction acknowledges her exceptional contribution to Bulgarian philately and her key role in preparing the event. Without her support, the realization of Balkanphila 2026 would have been unthinkable. Her presence at the ceremony and the gesture of gratitude from the UBF highlighted the importance of cooperation between cultural institutions and responsible business.
Minister Georgi Peev described the new issue as a bridge between historical periods, recalling personalities who left a lasting imprint on Bulgarian culture and statehood. The stamps dedicated to Princess Maria, Giovanna of Savoy, Irene Lekapene, and Margarita Saxe‑Coburg‑Gotha impressed attendees with their artistic strength and historical precision. Minister Peev congratulated artist Todor Angeliev for his powerful project dedicated to “the strong women beside the Bulgarian rulers.”
The ceremony at Vrana became not only a presentation of a new philatelic issue but also a celebration of gratitude, continuity, and the collective efforts invested in the development of Bulgarian philately. “Bulgarian Queens” is more than a series of stamps - it is a symbol of respect for the women who stood beside the rulers, and for the people who today work to preserve our historical memory. The distinction awarded to Tatyana Popova clearly shows that the future of philately is built on cooperation, dedication, and a genuine love for cultural heritage.