Ref Number: 212
In October 2013, a memorial plaque honoring Archimandrite Innocent of Sofia was unveiled in Varna
Ref Number: 212
Archimandrite Innocent Sofiyski, known in Bulgarian as Инокентий Софийcки, served as a prominent clergyman and held the esteemed position of archimandrite within the Bulgarian Orthodox Church.
Born on June 1, 1882, in Varna, he was known by the secular name Iliya Petrov Sofiyski.
He pursued his studies at the Samokov Theological School. Between 1902 and 1904, he pursued his studies at the Simferopol Theological Seminary. In 1905, he began his studies at the Kazan Theological Academy, completing his degree in 1909. However, he graduated without the privilege to teach in Russian theological institutions due to his status as a foreign subject. Following that, he took on the role of protosingel for the Stara Zagora Metropolis.
Starting in August 1910, he took on the role of rector at the newly established priestly school within the Bachkovo Monastery. On November 26, 1910, he received the sacred ordination as a hieromonk from Metropolitan Methodius of Stara Zagora.
Starting in September 1911, he took on the role of educator and teacher at the Constantinople Theological Seminary. On November 27, 1913, Archimandrite Innocent had to depart from Constantinople. Following the closure of the seminary, he oversaw the Melnik diocese from 1913 to 1914.
On December 6, 1914, he ascended to the esteemed rank of archimandrite in Sofia, conferred by Metropolitan Boris Ohridski. From 1914 to 1921, he served as the protosingel of the Maronite diocese, and then he took on the role of protosingel of the Stara Zagora metropolis for a second term until 1922.
Starting in April 1923, he took on the role of diocesan preacher and auditor for the Varna Metropolis, continuing until he was appointed as protosingel. Between 1924 and 1926, he served as the protosingel of the Varna Metropolis.
He amassed a treasure trove of archaeological, ethnographic, and bibliographic artifacts, including ancient documents and an impressive array of valuable Renaissance icons. He generously gave away all his possessions to museums and libraries at no cost. He has penned countless articles for both local and national publications, including “Notices of the Varna Archaeological Society,” “Military History Collection,” and more. In recognition of his civic contributions and dedication to museum work, he received the esteemed honor of the Order of Saints Cyril and Methodius.
In October 2013, a memorial plaque honoring Archimandrite Innocent of Sofia was unveiled in Varna, prominently displayed on the facade of his childhood home at 6 Rayko Zhinzifov Street.
We have put together a staff of first-rate, well-informed tour guides to help you discover the city.
