Educational and cultural activities of Greeks in Varna : (mid 19th c.-1906)

Abstract

During the 19th century, in Varna (Bulgaria), a vivid multinational and
multicultural city, the presence of the Greek population was substantial.
By the end of the century some 8000 Greeks lived in the city and their presence
was intensely felt in all aspects of the city’s life. It was the Greek community
which, along with the Armenians, shaped the economic life of Varna; moreover it presented a multifaceted and intense social activity and displayed a
particular interest in preserving and reinforcing its identity on the basis of
a well-organised and comprehensive education. The present article focuses
on the Greek educational and cultural activity in Varna and the apparent
connection between this activity and the development and preservation of
the Greek community’s profile and ethnic identity.