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Prof. Ivelin Argirov Ivanov is a full-time Professor at the Department of Old and Medieval History, Faculty of History, University of Veliko Tarnovo. His core research examines medieval military history with emphasis on Crusades, Balkan conflicts, and comparative analyses of warfare in Western Europe, Byzantium, and Livonia. He specializes in interpreting chronicles and apocalyptic manuscripts to reconstruct historical perceptions of war. His scholarly focus spans: Military technology and strategy in High/Late Middle Ages Crusader campaigns in the Balkans and Baltic regions Nomadic-settler interactions in Eastern Europe Bulgarian-Byzantine-Latin geopolitical dynamics Historiographical trends in post-communist academia Analysis of his recent publications (2011-2024) reveals predominant themes: comparative studies of crusading states (Livonia vs. Byzantine Romania), tactical analyses of nomadic warfare, and deconstructions of identity politics in medieval chronicles. His work frequently employs quantitative methods to assess military demographics and battle outcomes. Prof. Ivanov leads/participates in multiple university projects including: Digitization of academic collections (Project Lead) Optimization of university library research capabilities (Team Member) International research integration programs (Project Lead) Development of the VTU Review academic journal (Editorial Leadership)

• Medieval Military History
• Crusades Studies
• Byzantine Empire
• +3 more

Simeon Antonov is a Senior Lecturer at the Department of Old and Medieval History , Faculty of History , St. Cyril and St. Methodius University of Veliko Turnovo . His research focuses on the political, social, and cultural history of the Byzantine Empire (1025–1081), Byzantine historiography, prosopography, and sigillography. He participates in international academic projects such as the 2024 International Summer Seminar in Bulgarian Language and Culture and the 2018 International Symposium on "Tarnovo Literary School" . His recent publications analyze Byzantine military structures, aristocratic families, and Bulgarian-Byzantine interactions. Contact: s.antonov@ts.uni-vt.bg , s.antonov1990@abv.bg , ORCID .

• Byzantine Empire
• Political History
• Social History
• +4 more

Prof. PhD Plamen Hristov Pavlov is a faculty member at the University of Veliko Tarnovo, serving as a Professor in the Department of Old and Medieval History, Faculty of History. His research focuses on medieval Bulgarian history, national revolutions, and cultural heritage. Key publications include works on Bulgarian medieval rulers, national liberation movements, and historical figures like Vasyl Levski and Hristo Botev. Pavlov has authored over 150 books and articles, emphasizing historiography, archaeology, and political dynamics. He actively participates in academic conferences and serves as an editor for major historical projects. His work bridges academic research and public education, contributing to Bulgaria's historical narrative through accessible publications and cultural initiatives.

• Medieval History
• Balkan Studies
• National Revolutions
• +3 more

Dr. Momchil Mladenov Minchev is a Senior Lecturer at the Department of Old and Medieval History within the Faculty of History at the University of Veliko Tarnovo. His research focuses on medieval Bulgarian history, particularly the political and religious dynamics of the Second Bulgarian Empire (12-14th centuries), Byzantine-Bulgarian relations, and the cultural heritage of medieval Bulgaria. He actively participates in international academic projects and serves as a team leader in initiatives enhancing university library resources and doctoral student development. Education: PhD in History (not explicitly stated but implied by title). Research Interests: Political history of medieval Bulgarian rulers like Ivan Alexander and Kaloyan Church history, including Bulgarian-Byzantine religious interactions Medieval manuscript traditions and cultural heritage preservation Border conflicts and diplomatic relations in the Balkans Recent Projects: Optimizing university library services for academic research Promoting doctoral student international collaboration and publication Digitizing historical archives and cultural heritage materials Labs/Teams: Involved in the Department of Old and Medieval History's research initiatives and the University Library's digital archive projects.

• Medieval Bulgarian History
• Bulgarian Church History
• Political History of Medieval Bulgaria
• +3 more

Prof. Alexander Nikolov serves as Professor and Head of the Department of Ancient History, Thracian Studies and Medieval History at Sofia University 'St. Kliment Ohridski's Faculty of History in Bulgaria. His office (room 39) hosts Thursday office hours from 11:00-13:00, with contact via phone (+359) 2 9308 321 or email aleksandur@uni-sofia.bg. His academic credentials include: National College for Ancient Languages and Cultures (1982) MA in History, University of Sofia (1989) MA in Medieval Studies, Central European University, Budapest (1996) PhD in History, University of Sofia (2004) MPhil in Medieval Studies, Central European University, Budapest (2008) Specializing in Vatican Secret Archive research (1990-1991) and Modern Greek/Byzantine Studies (Vienna, 1998), his scholarly work centers on Medieval History with emphasis on Crusades historiography, migration patterns in frontier societies, and proto-national identity formation. His publications critically examine how medieval Balkan ethnic interactions—particularly involving Cumans, Uzes, and Bulgarians—shaped regional integration and cultural memory. Recent publications (2010-2013) reveal three dominant trajectories: reinterpretation of Bulgar ethnogenesis amid post-communist 'parahistory' phenomena, analysis of Crusader-era Christian-Muslim relations through texts like William of Tripoli's treatise, and investigations into how medieval migration patterns influenced Balkan frontier societies. His work consistently bridges Byzantine, Bulgarian, and Western European historical spheres while interrogating modern nationalist appropriations of medieval history. Professional affiliations include: Association of Byzantinologists and Medievalists in Bulgaria Bulgarian Historical Association Mediaevalia: Association for Medieval European and Mediterranean Research His research includes the 'Inter-Cultural Dialogue Bulgaria-Turkey' project (2008-2009). As an educator, he contributes significantly to Bulgarian secondary history curricula through textbooks covering Slavic-Bulgarian history and European civilization, though specific advisee relationships aren't documented. His departmental leadership focuses on integrating Thracian studies with broader medieval Balkan research frameworks.

• Medieval History
• History of the Crusades
• Migrations and Frontier Societies
• +3 more

Prof. Dimitar Yordanov Dimitrov is a faculty member at the University of Veliko Tarnovo , Bulgaria, where he holds the title of Professor in the field of Late Antiquity , Byzantine Studies , and Medieval History . His research focuses on religious identity , cultural interactions , and historiographical traditions in Southeastern Europe and the Eastern Roman Empire. His work spans interdisciplinary analysis of Byzantine religious policy , ancient philosophical traditions , and archaeological evidence , with a particular emphasis on the 4th-7th centuries and 12th-15th century polemics . He contributes to international conferences and publications in Byzantine history and medieval cultural studies . Projects associated with Prof. Dimitrov include "Southeast Europe: History, Culture, Politics, and Economy" (2018-2019) and "Bogoslovski i filosofski idei vuv vizantijskoto i balkansko kulturno prostranstvo" (2010-2012), focusing on organizing international conferences and improving academic visibility in Web of Science and Scopus databases.

• Late Antiquity
• Byzantine Studies
• Medieval History
• +3 more

Assoc. Prof. Naoum Kaytchev, PhD, is an Associate Professor in Modern and Contemporary Balkan History at Sofia University's Faculty of History and currently serves as Head of the Department of History of Byzantium and the Balkans. He holds a doctorate from Sofia University (1998) with a dissertation on national consciousness in Serbia and Bulgaria regarding Macedonia (1878–1912). His career includes diplomatic roles as Consul General of Bulgaria in Toronto (1999–2001) and Bitola (2007–2010). Education: BA/MA in History, Sofia University (1987–1992) Visiting PhD Student, St Edmund Hall, Oxford University (1994–1995) PhD in Byzantine and Balkan History at Sofia University (1994–1998) Research focuses on National Identities in Southeastern Europe , with emphasis on educational institutions, schoolbooks, and the histories of Croatia, Serbia, and Macedonia. He examines nation-building processes, ethnic identification, and geopolitical dynamics. His work bridges historical analysis with contemporary socio-political issues, particularly in the Balkans. Publications span monographs, edited volumes, and peer-reviewed articles addressing topics like Bulgarian-Serbian historiographic rivalry, Macedonian ethnic pluralism, and EU integration challenges. His Macedonia Desired (2003) and Illiria from Varna to Vila? (2015) are seminal works in Balkan studies. Grants and academic engagements include affiliations with institutions such as the Serbian Academy of Sciences, the Central European University, and University of Zagreb. He has contributed to international projects on Balkan historiography and regional policy.

• National Identities in Southeastern Europe
• Educational Institutions and Schoolbooks
• History of Croatia
• +4 more

Nikolay Hrisimov Nikolov is an Associate Professor at the University of Veliko Tarnovo , affiliated with the Faculty of History and the Department of Old and Medieval History . His research focuses on the Migrations period , Bulgarian Early Middle Ages , Byzantium and Barbarians , and Everyday Life in the Early Middle Ages , with particular interest in clothes and garment and Early Medieval Nomads in Central and East Europe. Education: PhD in History, specializing in the First Bulgarian Empire and early medieval daily life. His publications span topics like political structures , military terminology , and cultural practices of medieval Bulgars and Slavs, emphasizing archaeological evidence and historical texts. Recent works include studies on the Byzantine term παραμήριον , Slavic anti-Bulgarian uprisings , and medieval swords from Sofia’s vicinity. He actively contributes to projects such as the "Ethnocultural Traces from the Past until Today" case study on Arbanasi and Svishtov, and participated in the international forum "Bulgaria, Bulgarians, and the World" (2018). His work is accessible via ORCID and through his academic profiles.

• Migration period
• Bulgarian Early Middle Ages
• Byzantium and Barbarians
• +4 more

Professor Zarko Zhdrakov is a distinguished Bulgarian art historian currently serving as a professor at the National Academy of Arts in Sofia. He specializes in medieval Bulgarian art, with particular expertise in proto-Bulgarian art, church painting, iconography, and epigraphy. His academic career spans over three decades, marked by significant contributions to the study of Bulgarian medieval art and cultural heritage. Education: 1978 – Secondary education, State Art School "Giulio Romano" in Rome, Italy 1987 – Higher education, National Academy of Arts, majoring in Art History 1992 – Defended doctoral dissertation on "The Church of 'St. Apostles Peter and Paul' in Tarnovgrad – architectural and artistic problems" Research Interests: Professor Zhdrakov's research encompasses a wide range of topics in medieval Bulgarian art and culture. His primary areas of focus include proto-Bulgarian art , church painting , iconography , iconology , epigraphy , and paleography . He has conducted extensive studies on the influence of the Florentine Union of 1439 on Bulgarian art, medieval graffiti, and the cultural heritage of the Tarnovo region. Scientific Awards: 1997 – Paul Getty Foundation Fellowship for research on "The Florentine Union of 1439 and its influence on art in the 15th century" Academic Positions: 2018 – Professor of Art History, National Academy of Arts 2018 – Professor, National Academy of Sciences 2003 – Associate Professor of Art History, National Academy of Arts 2003 – Associate Professor, National Academy of Sciences 1999-2003 – Director of the Cultural Heritage Program at New Bulgarian University 1995 – Senior Assistant, National Academy of Arts 1992-1995 – Assistant, National Academy of Arts Contact Information: Email: zhdrakov@abv.bg Phone: +359 899 843662

• Proto-Bulgarian art
• Medieval church painting
• Iconography
• +6 more

Assoc. Prof. Svetoslav Ribolov, PhD, is a leading scholar at the Faculty of Theology , Sofia University ' St. Kliment Ohridski ', specializing in the Department of Systematic Theology . His research focuses on Byzantine theological traditions, ecumenical dialogues, patristic studies, and the evolution of Bulgarian theological thought. His scholarly work reveals sustained engagement with key theological issues spanning multiple centuries. Research trends show particular expertise in: Historical intersections between Orthodox and Protestant traditions Development of dogmatic theology in Eastern Christian contexts Patristic influences on Slavic Christian identity Iconographic and liturgical interpretations of theological concepts Comparative analysis of theological terminology His work demonstrates continuity between Byzantine theological heritage and modern Orthodox thought, with significant contributions to understanding the Divine Energies concept and interconfessional dialogue mechanisms during Ottoman rule.

• Systematic Theology
• Ecumenical Dialogue
• Byzantine Theology
• +4 more

Rumen Genov serves as Associate Professor in the Department of History at New Bulgarian University in Sofia, where he teaches Political Systems of Great Britain and USA courses. His academic career spans decades with significant contributions to Bulgarian historiography through research, editorial work, and institutional leadership. His educational background includes a History degree from Sofia University 'St. Kliment Ohridski' (1973) and PhD in History (1979). Previous positions encompass teaching at Sofia English High School (1972-74), Assistant Professor at Sofia University (1981), Associate Professor (1996), and Department Head of New and Modern History (2000-2005). Professor Genov's research centers on Modern Bulgarian History (19th-20th centuries), specializing in diplomatic history and Bulgaria's international relations. His work extensively examines Bulgarian-British and Bulgarian-American connections, the evolution of liberalism in Bulgaria, Protestant missionary influence, and critical events like the Eastern Question, Russo-Turkish War, and national unification movements. He analyzes historical narratives through diplomatic correspondence, literary perspectives, and transnational interactions. His publication record reveals consistent scholarly productivity with thematic clusters: diplomatic history (particularly British and American perspectives on Balkan crises), religious history (Protestant missions and societal impact), and editorial contributions to historical translations. He frequently explores how foreign observers shaped Bulgaria's international image during national liberation struggles. He maintains active academic engagement as member of the Bulgarian Historical Society (serving on the Board of Directors), Bulgarian Society for British Studies, and European Association for the Study of English (ESSE), contributing to international scholarly networks while advancing Bulgarian historical studies.

• Modern Bulgarian History
• Diplomatic History
• Bulgarian-British Relations
• +5 more

Maria Baramova is an Associate Professor of Early Modern Balkan History at the Department of Byzantine and Balkan Studies, Faculty of History, Sofia University "St. Kliment Ohridski". She serves as Head of the Department of Byzantine and Balkan Studies and Head of the University Centre for Quality Management. Her research focuses on Ottoman-Habsburg relations, geopolitics, warfare, and environmental history in Southeastern Europe. She has held visiting positions at Southwestern University (Blagoevgrad) and conducted research at institutions like the Leibniz Institute for European History (Mainz) and the University of Vienna. Notable awards include the 2021 Berlin-Brandenburg Academy Prize. Education: MA in History (Sofia University, 2000), PhD in Early Modern Balkan History (2007). Administrative roles include leadership in academic evaluation committees and coordination of the Master's Programme in Digital Humanities. Research interests intertwine political diplomacy, translation in international relations, and environmental history. Publications include monographs on Ottoman-Habsburg peace treaties and edited volumes on social networking in Southeastern Europe. Engaged in international projects like the EU-funded 'Heritage BG' Centre of Excellence and the COST Action on Islamic Legacy in Mediterranean contexts.

• Early Modern History of Southeastern Europe
• Ottoman Empire
• Habsburg Monarchy
• +5 more

Assoc. Prof. Boyan Dumanov, PhD is a faculty member at the Department of Archaeology, New Bulgarian University. His academic career spans excavations, publications, and teaching in Late Antique and Migration Period archaeology, focusing on the Roman provinces of Thracia and Dacia. Bachelor's degree in Medieval Archaeology from Sofia University (2003) Doctorate in Archaeology from Sofia University (2004) Research Interests: Dr. Dumanov specializes in the material culture of Late Antiquity, particularly Gothic and Hunnic jewelry, Roman-barbarian interactions along the Danube, and the evolution of military equipment. His work bridges archaeological evidence with historical narratives about ethnic migrations. Key Publications: Recent works analyze Thrace in Late Antiquity, Gothic settlements on the Lower Danube, and archaeological methodologies using UAVs. He explores how mobility and cultural exchange shaped Balkan frontier regions. Field Activities: As an expedition leader, he investigated late antique settlements in Mалко Тръново (2003-2004) and medieval fortresses in Горно Ново село (2005-2017). His projects include soil phosphate analysis and ancient road reconstruction.

• Late Antique Archaeology
• Migration Period Archaeology
• Thracian and Dacian Studies
• +3 more

Prof. Nikolay Angelov Kanev is a faculty member at the St. Cyril and Methodius University of Veliko Tarnovo , serving as a Professor in the Faculty of History . His research focuses on Byzantine and medieval European political history, particularly the hierarchy and ideological structures of the Byzantine Empire, sigilography, and prosopography. He has contributed extensively to understanding the socio-political dynamics between Byzantium and the Balkans, with a focus on titles, seals, and imperial power dynamics. Expertise: Byzantine history, medieval diplomacy, sigilography, Balkan studies. Notable projects include studies on Byzantine seals, imperial titles, and the historical context of Bulgarian-Byzantine relations. Active in academic initiatives like digitization of historical archives and university library development. His research bridges archaeology and history, emphasizing material culture (e.g., seals) to reconstruct medieval administrative and social hierarchies. He has published over 50 peer-reviewed articles, co-edited volumes, and authored monographs on Byzantine political ideology and medieval Balkan dynamics.

• Byzantine History
• Medieval European History
• Political History
• +4 more

Momchil Minchev, PhD , is a Senior Lecturer at the Department of Old and Medieval History within the Faculty of History at the University of Veliko Tarnovo "St. Cyril and St. Methodius" . His work focuses on Medieval Bulgarian history and the Bulgarian Church in the Middle Ages , with a particular emphasis on political dynamics, religious movements, and cultural exchanges in the Balkans and Byzantine Empire. Research Themes : Bulgarian-Byzantine relations, royal succession, Ottoman expansion, and interfaith dialogues. Projects : Active participant in initiatives enhancing academic research infrastructure and international scholarly collaboration. Email : m.m.minchev@ts.uni-vt.bg | mladenov17@gmail.com Publication Trends : Over 15 recent articles analyze key events like the Rusokastro Battle , Ivan Alexander's reign , and Hesychasm's spread , bridging broad disciplines like Medieval History and Byzantine Studies with specific sub-fields such as Ottoman-Bulgarian military conflicts and 14th-century diplomatic strategies . Academic Engagement : Co-organizer of international conferences and contributor to journals like Epoхи , reflecting his commitment to advancing medieval scholarship through collaborative research and digital humanities.

• Medieval Bulgarian History
• Bulgarian Church in the Middle Ages
• Political History
• +2 more