Deputy Minister Marin Raykov Awarded the National History Museum Prize “Lion – Guardian of Heritage”
22 April 2026 News
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Marin Raykov was awarded the National History Museum prize “Lion – Guardian of Heritage” during an official ceremony marking Donor Day. The distinction is conferred for a significant contribution to the preservation and promotion of Bulgaria’s cultural and historical heritage.
“This unique museum, with its 650,000 artefacts, of which we probably see less than 10 per cent, speaks clearly of the generosity of its donors. I would like to note that among these donors is also my father, Ambassador Rayko Nikolov, who has contributed more than I have,” Deputy Minister Marin Raykov said in his remarks. “I accept with honour and great pleasure the distinction conferred upon me, also with him in mind,” the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs added.
The National History Museum prize “Lion – Guardian of Heritage” was presented by Prof. Dr Kiril Topalov, who expressed appreciation for Deputy Minister Marin Raykov’s contribution to the preservation of national memory. During the ceremony, his longstanding service in the diplomatic field was also highlighted, including his roles as caretaker Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Ambassador of the Republic of Bulgaria to France, the United Kingdom, and other countries. His active efforts to promote Bulgarian cultural heritage in international institutions and museums, as well as to strengthen the country’s cultural presence abroad, were also noted.