The described treasures, representing only a small part of the historical and artistic treasury of our lands, give a generalized impression about the cultures blossoming at different periods. They refer to pre-history, antiquity and the middle ages and cover several millennia. Their importance is many-sided. They are valuable historical monuments, indications of the achievements of culture and art and strong instruments of aesthetical education. They have their main share in our national self-consciousness as Bulgarians. The more so when they inspire great interest abroad - in scholarly circles and among the general public. The numerous exhibitions in renowned world museums of art and history in Europe, America and Asia really contribute to this process.