Bulgarian media on property purchases in Thrace: Tourism, not nationalist revanchism

Bulgarian citizens purchasing property in Greece, particularly in Meriç and Thrace, are motivated by tourism and lifestyle factors rather than any form of nationalist revanchism, according to a report by the Bulgarian news agency BGNES. The coverage comes amid a recent dispute between the Greek Solution party and the Metropolis of Dedeağaç over property sales to Bulgarian buyers.

Background of the Controversy

The BGNES report notes that the sale of church-owned properties in the Dimetoka area (historically known as Dedeagach under Bulgarian rule, 1913–1918) has sparked conflict. Kyriakos Velopoulos, leader of the far-right populist party Greek Solution, accused the Metropolitan of Alexandroupolis of selling inherited church properties to Bulgarian citizens, labeling the actions as “anti-national” due to the region’s proximity to Bulgaria and Türkiye.

In response, the Metropolitan emphasized that all legal procedures were properly followed and accused Velopoulos of spreading hate and promoting Russian interests through his statements.

Bulgarian Property Purchases: A Modern Migration Trend

BGNES highlights a broader trend over the past 15 years: a significant return of Bulgarians to Northern Greece and the Aegean coast. Initially visiting as tourists, increasing numbers have begun purchasing real estate as their living standards improved, ranging from holiday homes to agricultural properties in Thasos or apartments in Kavala.

“The majority of Bulgarians are unaware that the areas they now inhabit were once populated by Bulgarians themselves. Their motivation is purely lifestyle-driven, not nationalist,” the report notes.

The influx of Bulgarian buyers has also contributed to rising living standards across Northern Greece. Following the fall of border barriers and both countries’ EU membership, Bulgarians returned to the region peacefully, with modern vehicles and businesses, now conducting transactions in euros.

The BGNES article frames the phenomenon as an example of cross-border integration and economic revitalization, contrasting sharply with political rhetoric framing the sales as a threat.