ANTARCTICA AND THE BULGARIANS

The exhibition “Antarctica and the bulgarians” takes visitors into the vast icy landscapes of Antarctica, exploring the story of Bulgaria’s presence on the continent – from the first expeditions to today’s scientific research. Through photographs and engaging informative texts, visitors can discover the Bulgarian Antarctic Base “St. Kliment Ohridski,” the lives and work of polar researchers, scientific discoveries, and international cooperation on the Ice Continent.

A special place in the exhibition is dedicated to Prof. Christo Pimpirev, a scientist and polar explorer who has devoted decades to the development of Bulgaria’s Antarctic programme. His work forms part of a remarkable national achievement that has established Bulgaria as an active participant in the exploration of Antarctica.

The exhibition was created by Iglika Trifonova, a photographer, journalist, and participant in six Bulgarian Antarctic expeditions. Her professional career combines photography with a passion for polar science and its promotion to wider audiences. In 2022, she was included in an international list of 100 women in polar science and education. In 2023, a cape on Livingston Island was named after her in recognition of her contribution to raising awareness of Antarctica. Through her work, she reveals not only the grandeur of the polar world but also the human stories behind scientific expeditions.

The exhibition comprises 25 photographic and informational panels, each measuring 100 × 70 cm, and is part of the “Mobile Exhibitions” programme of the State Institute for Culture at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Bulgaria. The exhibition is available both in a physical format and as files for printing the display panels.

The exhibition invites visitors to look beyond the familiar, discover Bulgaria’s role in exploring one of the world’s most mysterious continents, and gain insight into the courage, curiosity, and scientific spirit of those who continue to expand the boundaries of human knowledge.