On the Relations between Russia, the Orthodox East and the Bulgarian Lands in the Period XV–XVII Century

Abstract

This publication presents information on the relations between Russia, the Orthodox East and Bulgarian lands in the 15th and 17th centuries. During the period under study, Russia was the only independent Orthodox state that gradually grew into an empire and naturally claimed the Byzantine heritage. The Russian rulers manifested themselves as major contributors to the Eastern churches within the Ottoman Empire. In this context, a number of high-ranking representatives of the Orthodox East have appealed for alms (assistance) to the Russian authorities. Some of these priestswere also acting as political agents and informants of the Moscow authorities.