Prominent art historian and conservator Dr. Kosta Balabanov passed away at the age of 96 on Thursday. His remains will be buried Saturday at the Skopje Butel Cemetery, informed his family.
Dr. Kosta L. Balabanov (1929-2026) is one of the most prominent figures in Macedonian art history and in the protection of cultural heritage. As an art historian, conservator, scientist, diplomat, professor and cultural figure, he left a deep mark in the study, preservation and international affirmation of Macedonian medieval art. He is also known as a humanist, nature lover and passionate aquarist, who in later years actively follows cultural life and supports young experts.
Balabanov has played a significant role in the international affirmation of Macedonian art: he was a commissioner of exhibitions in the Louvre, Tokyo and Kyoto, as well as a participant in major European projects. In 1989, he presented Macedonian icons, along with the Vinica terracotta, in the Vatican. He has lectured at universities and museums in Europe and the world, and was also a visiting professor at Merton College in Oxford. Since 1994, he has been named Honorary Consul General of Japan in Macedonia and Director of the Japan Information Center in Skopje 1994-2009.
In 1995, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan declared him a prominent person contributing to Japan’s cooperation with foreign countries. 2001- Silver Cup with Golden Emblem from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan In 2001 in Tokyo, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Japan awarded him the Silver Cup with Golden Emblem of the Ministry for special merits in deepening the friendship and cooperation between Japan and the Republic of Macedonia.
He was awarded the Order of the Rising Sun with Golden Rays and Long Ribbon – a high decoration from the Japanese Emperor H.V. Akihito in 2008.
The Japan Foundation, out of 167 nominees from around the world in 2001, awarded Balabanov a “Special Award” as the first of two winners, for which he was received in the imperial palace by the Japanese Emperor Akihito. This special award, starting from 1974, has been awarded only to 10 winners from Europe.
Balabanov is the winner of many domestic and international awards, including the “St. Clement of Ohrid” state award. His work represents a lasting scientific and cultural value and a foundation for understanding Macedonian medieval art and cultural history.
