This tiny Bulgarian town offers a stunning location in the mountains and a storied history.
The custom of kukeri going out on the streets of various Bulgarian towns is an old pagan tradition kept alive through the centuries. The first written evidence for it dates back to the 6th century. The Kukeri are in fact people who dress up in eccentric costumes sometimes resembling animals but on many occasions not resembling anything familiar at all. In addition, they have large copper bells attached to themselves. With their scary appearance and the loud sounds of their bells they are meant to scare away the evil spirits. You could enjoy festivals with kukeri at various times throughout the year all around Bulgaria even though the custom is most common in Southeast and Southwest Bulgaria. Most typically, it is held either around Christmas or during Sirni Zagovezni (a holiday celebrated 7 weeks prior to Easter). The best option for actually experiencing a kukeri mask festival is in Pernik (a city situated 30km from Sofia). It is an international festival called “Surva”. It is held every year on the […]
The most common reaction of people whenever I mention that I had been studying in Bulgaria involves rather confused facial expression, followed by the inevitable “Why?”, which clearly shows that the country itself is not directly in the spotlight. That is, of course, just one out of the many reasons, apart from its captivating natural beauty and amazing, friendly people that I would love to reveal this hidden yet precious gem of Bulgaria, Blagoevgrad. I feel like I owe so much to this wonderful town where I had spent my great university years. I am sure you did not know about this one, so keep reading. I promise you will not be dissapointed.
Kukeri from the southern Bulgarian town of Blagoevgrad. Bulgarians mark the turn of winter towards spring with monstrous costumes to frighten away the evil spirits of winter. These costumes are of traditional design; made from goat hair. The (normally raucous) Bulgarian street-dogs react to the costumes by silently fleeing.
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Bulgaria is a member of the European Union with inexpensive and comfortable living. Many emigrants move here to live. The Bulgarian economy is constantly developing. Consultants recommend paying attention to different aspects when choosing a Bulgarian city. According to migrants' reviews, the best cities are Burgas, Stara Zagora, Varna, Blagoevgrad and Sofia.
