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The beginning of the Cyrillic alphabet: May 24, the holiday of Slavic writing and culture!

More than a thousand years ago, in one of the most exciting periods of Bulgarian history, the world was introduced to two figures who will leave an indelible mark not only in the history of Bulgaria, but also in the entire Slavic culture and enlightenment. These figures are neither more nor less than the holy brothers Cyril and Methodius. Today, on May 24, we honor their achievements and their efforts for the education and cultural enrichment of their people.

Introduction to history

In the 9th century AD, at the end of the first millennium, Bulgaria was at the peak of its greatness. This is the period of the First Bulgarian State, when Tsar Simeon the Great established Bulgaria as a powerful political and cultural force in Eastern Europe. But in order to become a fully established state, it needs an independent spiritual leadership and a distinctive cultural identity.

Brothers Cyril and Methodius: Preachers of culture and writing

The holy brothers Cyril and Methodius were two brothers born in the so-called Thessalonica dynasty in the middle of the 9th century. The name of the older brother, Constantine, was later changed to Cyril, and the younger, Michael, was given the name Methodius. They are known not only as missionaries, but also as scientists, linguists, educators and creators of Slavic literature.

They are of great importance both for Orthodoxy and for Slavic culture. In 863, they received a mission from the Byzantine emperor Michael III to preach Christianity to the Slavic tribes in Moravia. From this moment begins the incredible adventure of the brothers, which will change the face of Europe forever.

The Bulgarian alphabet: The basis of enlightenment

One of the greatest contributions of the brothers Cyril and Methodius was the creation of the Bulgarian alphabet, known as Cyrillic. This happens in order to translate the holy scriptures into the Church Slavonic language acceptable to the Slavic peoples. The Cyrillic alphabet is based on the Old Bulgarian language and the Greek alphabet, but it was adapted specifically for the needs of Slavic culture and the Bulgarian people.

Continuation of the legacy

Today, many centuries after their achievements, the legacy of the holy brothers Cyril and Methodius continues to be felt. The Bulgarian alphabet that they created is not only the basis of the Bulgarian language, but also of a number of other Slavic languages such as Russian, Serbian, Ukrainian and others.

May 24th is a reason for pride and celebration not only for Bulgarians, but also for the entire Slavic community. This day not only commemorates the two educators, but also emphasizes the importance of education, culture and tolerance between peoples.

The holy brothers Cyril and Methodius not only preached Christianity in the Slavic lands, but also created the foundations of culture and education, which continue to influence Europe and the world even today. Their feast day, May 24th, is an occasion for joyous celebration and commemoration of their immortal achievements

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