Kyustendil’s Museum Organizes Workshop Dedicated to Rescue of Bulgarian Jews in WWII

Jerusalem, 7 March, 2023 (TPS) -- KYUSTENDIL, SOUTH-WEST BULGARIA, 07.03.2023 (BTA)
Kyustendil’s Regional History Museum said it is organizing the first museum workshop, dedicated to the town’s efforts for the rescue of the Bulgarian Jews during WWII. The activities for children will include making a copy of the Order of the Balkan Range with a tri-colored ribbon, as well as arranging puzzles dedicated to the local rescuers and their work. The workshop will be held on March 10 and 11 from 2:00 pm until 6:00 pm.

March 9 of this year marks the 80th anniversary of the events that led to the rescue of nearly 50,000 Bulgarian citizens of Jewish background from Nazi death camps, the Museum recalled. This feat was led by Dimitar Peshev, while many local residents also took part, including Assen Suychmezov, Vladimir Kurtev, Ivan Momchilov and Petar Mikhalev. Due to the political situation in Bulgaria after the war, their deeds were recognized only after their deaths.

The locals who participated in these efforts were honored with the title of “Righteous among the Nations” by the State of Israel, presented to non-Jews who have risked their lives to save Jews from Nazi extermination. They have also been honored with the highest award in Bulgaria, bestowed by its President on persons of outstanding merit to this country – the Order of the Balkan Range, 1st Class, the Museum further said.