Bulgari family: Reviving their jewelry legacy and Epirus roots in Paramythia

In the heart of Paramythia, the iconic Bulgari School now stands fully renovated, ready to narrate stories from the past, honor the present, and pave the way for the future. The school is not just a building but a symbol of the deep connection between the region and the Bulgari family, whose roots trace back to Epirus.

The vision for the Bulgari School began with Sotirios Bulgari, the founder of the Bulgari brand, born in Paramythia. Coming from a family of silversmiths, Sotirios displayed early ambition to create something monumental. Although life and career led him to Italy, he never forgot his origins. He instructed his sons to fund the construction of a school in his hometown, a building that would stand out for its quality and significance.

Construction of the school began in 1934 and was completed in 1937, thanks to the generous contributions of the Bulgari family and the Greek state. The family donated approximately 1,075,000 drachmas—an extraordinary sum for the time—while the Greek state contributed another million drachmas. The result was a structure unlike any other in Greece. For decades, the school served as a hub for education and progress, with the Paramythia gymnasium hosting up to 1,400 students in the early 20th century.

A Historic Landmark with a Painful Past
The significance of the school extended beyond its educational role. During World War II, under the German Occupation, it became a place of suffering as it housed 49 prominent citizens of Paramythia, who were imprisoned there before being executed by the Nazis. This tragic history is commemorated every year, and a special memorial area dedicated to their memory was included in the recent renovation.

The School’s Renovation Journey
The restoration of the Bulgari School was a long-standing demand of the local community and municipal authorities. Initial contact between the Municipality of Souli and the Bulgari family began in 2017 when representatives visited Anna Bulgari in Rome. Anna, the last family member fluent in Greek, was deeply moved by the proposal and wholeheartedly supported the initiative.

The renovation was funded through a European Union program, with a total budget of €2.5 million. The restoration strengthened the building’s structural framework and included modern electrical and mechanical systems, elevators, facilities for individuals with disabilities, and new functional spaces such as restrooms.

The renovated building has now become a multi-purpose center for art, history, and culture. In its trial operational phase, visitors can explore Paramythia’s history and the broader heritage of Epirus through modern interactive exhibitions. Video screens display interviews with alumni and staff of the school, while dedicated rooms highlight different aspects of the region’s cultural legacy. One room showcases the natural beauty of Epirus, another celebrates the heroes of the Greek Revolution from Souli, and an entire floor is devoted to the Bulgari family’s journey from Paramythia to global prominence.

The Bulgari Legacy on Display
A standout feature is a room dedicated to Bulgari’s 130-year history. Photos of the family and their iconic jewelry illustrate the stylistic evolution of the brand over time. Another room houses archival materials from Greek and foreign travelers who photographed Paramythia, as well as works by local photographers. Additionally, a special area honors literary figures from the region, underlining the importance of education in the town’s history.

Strengthening Ties Between the Bulgari Family and Epirus
Recently, Souli Mayor Thanasis Danis visited Rome to meet with Nikolaos Bulgari, grandson of Sotirios Bulgari and Vice President of the Bulgari brand. The mayor presented the project’s progress and expressed the desire for continued collaboration with the Bulgari family. “Today’s meeting reaffirmed the Bulgari family and brand’s commitment to this significant project for Paramythia,” said the mayor, noting that communications will intensify in the coming months.

A Grand Opening with Global Spotlight
The official opening of the Bulgari School is scheduled for next summer, with the exact date to be announced soon. This event is expected to be one of the year’s major cultural milestones, as the entire Bulgari family will attend, showcasing their enduring connection to their ancestral home in Paramythia.

The Bulgari family plans to invite distinguished figures from the worlds of jewelry, art, and global business, ensuring the event garners worldwide attention. Meanwhile, the local municipal authorities intend to invite members of the Greek government, adding symbolic weight to the occasion. The opening ceremony will feature a series of events and presentations highlighting the school’s rich history, the cultural heritage of the region, and the Bulgari family’s contributions to Paramythia’s global recognition. This celebration promises to leave a lasting impression both locally and internationally.

Reviving Local Landmarks
As part of its broader effort to restore the town’s historical glory, the Souli Municipality is negotiating to acquire the building where Sotirios Bulgari opened his first store. The property, owned by a local resident, is a key piece of the town’s history and the Bulgari founder’s legacy. The goal is to incorporate the building into a unified cultural complex connected to the renovated Bulgari School.

This initiative is part of a larger municipal plan to renovate and repurpose historical buildings in Paramythia, aiming to highlight its unique history and attract visitors. The negotiations are ongoing, and the municipality is optimistic about reaching an agreement to create a cultural landmark that will enhance the region’s historical identity.

The Bulgari Family’s Return to Paramythia
In August 2023, the Bulgari family made an emotional visit to Paramythia. Nikolaos Bulgari, along with younger family members, visited their ancestral lands for the first time. Their emotion was palpable as they saw the renovated school funded by their ancestors and the first silversmithing workshop and store established by Sotirios Bulgari.

During their visit, the family toured the Church of the Virgin Mary and the Monument of the 49 Martyrs, paying tribute to those lost during the Occupation. They expressed enthusiasm for the school’s progress and their intention to support the project further.

The visit concluded with a warm meal at a traditional tavern on the banks of the Acheron River, where the family promised to stay engaged with the project and return soon.

A Cultural Beacon for the Future
The Bulgari School is not only an architectural gem for Paramythia but also a bridge between past and future. It is expected to become a key point of reference for the region, restoring the town’s lost glory and attracting visitors from across Greece and abroad.

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