Bulgarian Orthodoxy is the national branch of the Eastern Orthodox Church in Bulgaria. It is one of the oldest Christian traditions in the country, dating back to the 9th century when the First Bulgarian Empire adopted Christianity. The church plays a significant role in preserving Bulgarian culture and identity. The Bulgarian Orthodox Church is organized under the Patriarchate of Bulgaria, which is headquartered in Sofia. It follows the Byzantine liturgical tradition and emphasizes the importance of sacraments, prayer, and community worship. The church also celebrates various religious holidays, contributing to the spiritual life of the Bulgarian people.