Epigraphic Monuments from the Early Middle Ages: Systematization and State of Research on the Inscriptions of the First Bulgarian Kingdom

Abstract: This article presents a scholarly systematization of epigraphic monuments from the period of the First Bulgarian Kingdom (7th–10th centuries). The study classifies the corpus of inscriptions and linear graffiti based on their location, material, and execution technique (incisio). Focus is placed on key centers such as Pliska, Preslav, and the Basarabi-Murfatlar cave monastery complex. The significance of official state epigraphy and the widespread distribution of the IYI sign as a state and cult symbol are analyzed. The text provides a critical review of the contributions made by leading researchers, including V. Beshevliev and K. Popkonstantinov, while also examining the implementation of modern digital methods and 3D scanning in the documentation of these monuments.