I guess you’ve heard about the Christmas markets in Europe, the red wine, the hand-made decorations, the music, lights, and the traditional food. But, do you know why on Christmas Eve in Bulgaria you will find either 7, 9 or 12 different dishes? Why do we put garlic, honey, walnuts, and wheat on the table? And as soon as everyone is seated, why no one is allowed to leave the table?

If you really want to understand our traditions we will need to start with the very very beginning. They might sound a bit weird but in the end, they will all make perfect sense to you.

1.Garlic, honey and wheat… Wait, what?

The Bulgarians are very superstitious that’s why they will never seat without having garlic on their table. It is believed to protect the house from evil, bad thoughts and against cold, of course. You can see a small pot with honey as a symbol of the “sweet life” and walnuts to predict the health of the family members. If the walnut is full, then the person will be healthy, but if it’s empty or rotten – you probably can guess the answer.

2. Vegan food. You won’t believe, but it is delicious!

On this day the food is only vegan, so no dairy products and meat. Women choose mainly food that swells like beans, rice, wheat etc. They believe the seeds are symbol of the fertility, health and that they will help the maidens to get pregnant. Bean soup, sauerkraut leafs filled with rice and stuffed dry peppers with potatoes are only 3 of the main dishes.  

3. Ritual Bread and lucky charms.

The oldest woman in the house will hide in the bread small items wrapped in tinfoil before she bakes it. Every item has its own meaning. For example, the coin is for wealth, the knob is for work, the willow branch is for health, the little piece of paper is for study and the bean is for productivity. Nowadays the young generation wraps small messages instead just to make it more fun.

4. Sour pastries and sugar, sugar, sugar!

Of course, there is our famous Banitsa (the filled pastry usually with eggs and cheese), but on this day you will find it with two different fillings. One will be with sauerkraut (called “zelnik”) and the other one will be with grated pumpkin and brown sugar (called “tikvenik”). In some regions, the elderly women will prepare “baklava” – a rich sweet dessert made of layers of tin unleavened dough filled with chopped nuts and held together with syrup made of sugar or honey.

5. Honey Water

The water this evening must be sweet too. We boil a variety of dried fruits, put sugar or honey in it and we call it “oshav” (ошав). To be honest, the combination of this sweetness with the sauerkraut and the salty bean soup is absolutely my favourite, although many people find it strange.  

6. Now let’s go back to the numerology. 

Why the number of the dishes are so important and what meaning stands behind each one? Clearly, 7 are the days of the week, the pregnancy lasts for 9 months and 12 are the months of the year. Believe me, there is no a single Christmas’s dinner when we seat on the table before we count the meals.

7. And now let’s count to 12…

Before we seat down we need to make sure that everything is set because no one is allowed to leave the table before we finish with our food. And so it begins – 1. Bread 2. Oshav (sweet water) 3.Bean soup 4. Sarmi (sauerkraut roles filled with rice) 5. Peppers (dry red peppers filled with potatoes or beans)  6. Fresh fruits 7. Walnuts 8. Honey 9. Zelnik (pastry with sauerkraut) 10. Tikvenik (pastry with grated pumpkin) 11. Wheat 12. Baklava (the sweet dessert).

The biggest honour of splitting the round loaf is always given to the oldest man in the house. The first piece of the bread he puts aside for the Mother of God so she won’t feel hungry ever again and another for the house. He is the one to say the blessing and the only one who can go and get the salt and pepper, (which we usually forget in the kitchen). Bending down he shows respect to the Earth, prays for a fertile and full harvest.

And as I’ve mentioned already, Bulgarians are superstitious … On this night the family will leave all the food on the table for the deceased people. We believe that the lost members of the family will come during the night and when they see all the food left for them, they will know they’ve not been forgotten.

Merry Christmas & Весела Коледа

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as well as lots of practices that demonstrate the diversity of her cultural heritage and raise awareness about its importance. You’ve probably heard about the Rila Monastery, but have you heard about the tradition of carpet making in Chiprovtsi, or the SURVA Festival… Have a look at our list, you might find some incredible tips for an unforgettable local experience…

Rila Monastery

UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Rila Mountains, which is an original national museum with more than 11 centuries old history. The monastery dates back to the 10th century but has been plundered and burned down several times. The present building has been built in the mid-19th century. Located in the gorgeous mountain scenery of the Rila mountains, it is considered the highest achievement of Bulgarian monumental architecture of the National Revival period.  Of particular interest is the museum, and the 1335 Hrelyo’s Tower, which is actually the oldest preserved building in the courtyard. Alongside is the big five-dome church Assumption of the Holy Virgin with splendid frescoes by some of Bulgaria’s finest artists of the time.

Visit the monastery with us and take a day trip from Sofia

• Rila Monastery – Wikipedia
• Rila Monastery – official website 

Boyana Church

The 10th century Boyana Church is a remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site. The murals of this famous church reflect both Byzantine and local traditions of the preceding two centuries. One of the portraits in the church is unanimously considered a genuine masterpiece of 13th century painting, created 200 years before the European renaissance. They form a second layer over the paintings from earlier centuries and represent one of the most complete and well-preserved monuments of mediaeval art in the Balkans.

Take a ride to the outskirts of Sofia and visit Boyana Church

• Boyana Church – official website
• Boyana Church – Unesco

Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak

A UNESCO world heritage site, part of the Royal Thracian necropolis where more than 1 500 tombs of kings and members were excavated. Dating back to the 4^th-3^rd century BC the frescoes are representing a couple at a ritual funeral feast. The paintings of the round burial chamber are Bulgaria’s best-preserved artistic masterpieces from the Hellenistic period therefore the original tomb is closed for visitors. People nowadays can enter the replica and see part of the Royal treasures at the beginning of the entrance.

• Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak  – Wikipedia
• Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak  – Unesco

Tjracian Tomb of  Sveshtari

Although Bulgaria has more than 1500 tombs, Sveshtari offers a unique experience. People can get into the original sanctuary and stay within inches of the frescoes and statues dating back to the 3rd century BC. The tomb is the burial site of a royal couple from the Thracian tribe – Getae. The archaeological remains confirm that they had practised ruler cult and minted their own coins. Good to know is that only a limited amount of people are allowed each day through the climate-controlled space.

• Thracian Tomb of Sveshtari  – Wikipedia
• Thracian Tomb of Sveshtari  – Unesco

The Rock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo

Medieval frescoes in rock-hewn monasteries on limestone cliffs – the churches became part of UNESCO in 1979. The caves in the region had been inhabited by the monks from the 12^th century till the late 17^th. The frescoes are dating back to the 13—14^th century and people can visit them between March and November. Close to the Danube, near Ruse, Bulgaria has one more site listed in UNESCO and this the Natural reserve of Srebarna.

Check wit us what else you can visit near the “Blue Danube” river 

• Rock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo – Wikipedia
• Rock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo – Unesco

Madara Horesman

The 7^th century old rock relief is dated back to the First Bulgarian Empire and became part of UNESCO in 1979. There are still discussions going on about who resembles this unique rock cut. Is it one of our rulers at that time Khan Tervel, Khan Omurtag, Khan Krum or is it just a Thracian warrior? Some think that is a part of the Sassanian rock relief tradition – the last kingdom of the Persian Empire. The complex underneath the monument is considered to be a pagan shrine where a sacral rituals were held by the rulers. The Rider of Madara can be seen on your way between Veliko Turnovo and our Sea capital – Varna.

• The Madara Rider or Madara Horseman – Wikipedia
• The Madara Rider or Madara Horseman – Unesco

Nessebar

Also knows as “The pearl of the Black Sea” is an ancient city and a major seaside resort. In 1956 it was declared “a museum-town, an archaeological and architectural reserve”. Due to the city’s abundance of historic buildings the entire city was listed as a UNESCO world cultural heritage monument. In its thousand years of existence, the town bears medieval walls, Byzantine and Bulgarian churches dating back to the 5^th century and history that will take you back in time.

• Nessebar – Wikipedia
• Ancient City of Nessebar – Unesco

The tradition of carpet-making in Chiprovtsi

This unique Bulgarian tradition of carpet-making became part of the UNESCO list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2014. The handwoven carpets (kilimi) have been made by the women of Chiprovtsi using a unique technique of weaving on a vertical hand-loom that is unchanged since the 17^th century. Today, there are 27 different motifs that are listed as typical of the Chiprovtsi carpets, each of which represents a particular religious belief of Bulgarians. Read more – Click here.

• The tradition of carpet-making in Chiprovtsi -Unesco

Surva Festival

In ancient Bulgaria, wearing masks was believed to provide protection from evil, ensure a successful harvest, and guarantee health and fertility for humans and farm animals. Many of these pagan rituals, which were later incorporated into Christianity, are still performed in eastern Bulgaria between the holidays of Christmas and Easter. In 1995 the International Federation of Carnival Cities accepted the town of Pernik as a full member. In June, 2009, Pernik was proclaimed as the European capital of Survas & Mummers and included in the UNESCO list of the Intangible Heritage of Humanity. Read more – Click here.

• Surva folk feast in Pernik region -Unesco
• Surva Festival

Nestinarstvo – Fire Dance

The origin of Nestinarstvo, a ritual that involves dancing on hot coals, remains something of a mystery. Most believe that this unique tradition originated with the ancient Thracians, for whom the ritual combined sun worship with the cult of earth and fire. People from the village of Bulgari believe the fire purifies the soul, chases away disease and evil, and forgives the sins of the present. In 2009, the fire-dancing was included in the UNESCO list of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Read more – Click here.

• Nestinarstvo – Wikipedia
• Nestinarstvo – Unesco

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Of course, before we decide to travel to some far away destination, we want to know how safe is to travel there alone. First thing we read is about the pickpockets, right?

Let me tell you something. They are everywhere and especially in the big cities. You will see them in London, Paris, Rome and I can continue for another 10 pages or so. But, that’s not my point. Being careful even in your home-town is part of our lives and this should not affect our travel choices at all.

Comparing Bulgaria to other countries or the neighbouring Turkey – Bulgaria is very safe. People here are living in a peaceful harmony especially when it comes to the ethnic and religious differences. Yes, you might see stray animals and you always need to have piece of meat in your pocket… JOKING!!! Most of them are checked and not violent at all. So…

What to expect in Bulgaria?

Tap water is drinkable almost everywhere in the country. Bulgaria has more than 2000 mineral springs therefore it is not likely to see a sign that you should not drink the water. Plus, you can fill out your bottle with drinkable water on nearly every curve of the roads in the mountains and on the main squares in the cities.

Bulgarian currency is LEV and it is tied to the EUR, so you should always look for the exchange rate (1.00 EUR= 1.95 BGN). On some places you might find that they take commission, therefore before exchanging any money make your calculations first. Always read the receipt carefully as you do in any other country that has their own currency and you don’t understand it.

Cheap Public Transportation. You have to buy a ticket in advance. Sometimes you can buy them from the driver, but only if you have the exact change. In most of the buses/trams you will find a machine where you can put coins and receive a ticket, but again – you need to have change. One ticket is 1.60 BGN, you can also buy а set of 10 tickets for 12 BGN (but you are the only one can use them and you always have to keep the last number of the ticket with you) or buy a day ticket for 4 BGN. You can buy a 3 Day Card for all the lines which is even cheaper –10 BGN.

According to the last reports in Europe- crime in general in Bulgaria is very low. However, in case of emergency, you can call 112 and English is available. I always recommend to use a proper app for taxi companies because you will get the number of the car, the name of the driver and even more important – you will get an approx. amount of the price that you should pay in the end.

O, Bulgarian Cuisine … Food! Delicious food, strong taste, vegan, vegetarian and everything you read about the food in Bulgaria will be how cheap it is. Yes. Well, for Sofia I would say is affordable. Like in every other country the standards of living in the capital are much higher than any other city. Therefore, don’t be surprised when you pay for coffee 3.00 BGN on the main square and next day 0.50 BGN in another small town. Checking your bill for an extra Salad, that you didn’t order, should be a habit you should already have, if you travel often.

Free gifts? Well, NO! You should know that there is nothing free, except “love” of course. Some strangers will stop you and give you something for luck and so it begins … “Let me tell you something about your future”, “…take this amulet to protect you from evil” etc. and this will continue till you get really annoyed and decide to give them something just to leave you alone. Beggars – you will see them mainly on the main streets and in front of the churches. I am not going to tell you what to do with them, because I will assume you know.

Roads… It is better to hire a driver, especially if you are going to travel outside of the city. Bulgaria has 3 highways that cross the country and the impression you will get at first will be quiet high… till you get off the main road. Travelling in the evening can be even difficult. Bumpy, unmarked roads and I am not even going to write about the lights, because “poor” is a very soft word when it comes to that topic.  BUT the bus tickets from city to city are not expensive at all and can range between 5 – 50 BGN.

Bulgaria is like every other country in Europe and being overcharged in a bar or dance club can happen anywhere in the world. I can say that this actually depends on your own behaviour.

Other than that, Bulgaria is ranked 27^th out of 162 ranking of the World’s safest countries. So, stop reading and plan your visit to Bulgaria.

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There is no better way to spend the winter than lounging in cosy robe and pair of warm slippers. Plan a weekend to seek out mountainside luxury, fine dining in a combination with wine therapy and SPA. Take in the panoramic views of the snow falling as you ease in the many scenic spots in the large areas of the SPA. Rent a ski, visit the near UNESCO World Heritage sites, read a book or just take a long day sleep. You are still not sure of what you are looking for? Let us help…

Why Bulgaria?

• Bulgaria has more than 2000 mineral springs and in July Velingrad became the SPA capital of the Balkans. It was awarded with the title of the World Conference Branch Organization of Hoteliers and Restauranteurs (IHRA), held in Monterey, Mexico. In the 1980s Bulgaria was the second world largest exporter of wine, only topped by France. This makes the country one of the TOP 10 destinations in the world for Wine tourism & SPA.
• Since Bulgaria’s EU accession in 2007, Bulgaria’s more than 70 wineries and wine cellars continue the skilful Thracian tradition of winemaking, focusing on quality rather than quantity. Bulgaria has the capacity to process about 700 000 tons of grapes a year.
• Archaeological studies point to evidence of winemaking as early as 4000 BC, when Bulgarian lands were inhabited by the Thracians. Zagreus was a Thracian god later known as Dionysus – the God of wine.

Ski resorts in Bulgaria

One of the largest and most developed Ski resorts in Bulgaria is Bansko, however there are few more that can offer the same experience. In Borovets is located the highest peak on the Balkan Peninsula – Mousala (2925m) and Pamporovo can be found in the magical Rhodope Mountain famous with its mythical singer Orpheus. Imagine skiing all day long, age-old pine woods and a perfect end in a hot tub with mineral water… And let me tell you what is better than that – glass of decent red wine. Here are just a few of many more …

Wine

• Mavrud is one of the most ancient and typical Bulgarian wines. Its name comes from the Greek “mavro”, which means black! Famous with its rich taste and legends behind, you can find this wine almost everywhere in the country.
• Rubin reminds of the Italian Nebbiolo and the flavours range between sweet strawberries and blackberries. To bring the best combination of structure, colour and body, you will find it often blended with Mavrud.
• Gamza or Kadakra can be found in the Northwest Bulgaria and it is served in Burgundy glass because of its light body, berry flavours and dark-skinned variety of grapes.

We can arrange anything, just tell us what you are seeking for. Get inspired by our recommendations:

• Bansko is number one Ski Resort of Bulgaria and located in the National Park of Pirin, protected by UNESCO. The combination of typical Bulgarian architecture, SPA hotels and Historical sites makes the city competitive with resorts from Austria, Switzerland and France. The prices are similar to other cities in Europe, so you pay for what you get. You can combine it with a visit of the Rila Monastery – another UNESCO world Heritage site and Stobs Pyramids, which are basically on your way. Or take a day trip to Melnik – the smallest city in Bulgaria and try the famous Shiroka Melnishka. Winston Churchill was known to buy 500 litres of a typically Bulgarian wine variety from this region. Another small resort on the way would be Panichishte.
• Dobrinishte is just 6 km away from Bansko and has 17 mineral springs with a water temperature between 30 to 43 degrees by Celsius. If you like off the beaten path, than this small resort offers everything. You can combine it with a day trips to the near villages of Kovachevitsa and Leshten.

Around Sofia and Plovdiv

• Borovets is just 70 km away from Sofia and only 120 km from Plovdiv – The European Capital of Culture for 2019. If you decide to drive to Plovdiv, you should probably consider doing few days in Borovets and go where the locals go – Pamporovo. Near Pamporovo check Shiroka Luka, beautiful medieval town which can warm every heart.
• Near the new SPA Capital of the Balkans – Velingrad is the family-friendly resort of Tsigov Chark. If you like lakes it’s usually suitable for winter holidays as well as for the summer. The new piste offers good conditions for skiing and snowboarding, and near the artificial lake can be put a caravan or a tent.

We are traditionalists who are passionate about our folklore, culture, food, history, and nature. In order to provide our guests with an unparalleled experience, we explored every nook and cranny of our country. We met the winegrowers, farmers, and the elderly people who shared their stories with us. We simply fell in love with everything what Bulgaria has to offer and can hardly wait to show it to you.

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Now get into your 5 senses…which pops into your mind first? Perhaps it will be your sense of taste.

This is NOT just a list of Traditional Bulgarian dishes that you must try! This is a Guide for a day in the Life of one true Bulgarian.

MORNING

 Wake up with the local hens, dogs bark… or just the traffic.  What Bulgarians eat in the morning?! Pancakes, eggs, sausages, fruits, vegetables – absolutely. But what do they really start with?

Popara „попара“– this is a combination of bread, sugar, hard white cheese and either tea or hot milk. Sometimes we put honey, sometimes butter, but in general if the bread is from the last week we will either fry it with eggs or crumble it in hot milk/tea.

Panagyurski’s Eggs – imagine now Eggs Benedict but instead of Hollandaise sauce we put yogurt with garlic and on the top – fried paprika with melted butter…  Yummy

Banitsa – pastry filled with white hard cheese, eggs, butter and yogurt. We also eat the Banitsa while drinking Ayran (yogurt with salt and water). Sometimes can be sweet.

Mekici and Buhtichki – O Mama Mia … kneaded dough made with yogurt that is deep fried often powdered with sugar or garnished with jam, honey and white hard cheese. Double Yummy

LUNCH

Let’s start with the tomatoes… You can call it Shopska’s Salad, Harvester’s Salad too… or the Buffalo Heart Tomatoes with the White Hard Cheese… People are always amazed by the size and the taste of the Bulgarian Pink tomato, often called the Buffalo’s heart between the locals. Yes, they do not have the perfect shape, but OMG they certainly have the perfect taste.

Tarator

Dairy lovers may be aware that the bacteria strain needed to produce yoghurt’s mild texture is called Lactobacillus Bulgaricus. But did you know that these natural bacteria are found only in mammals and plants living in Bulgaria? It’s true! Yogurt… Yep. It is definitely a MUST TRY. We put yogurt on anything, we drink yogurt on breakfast, on lunch and on dinner with the local brandy (Rakija)… we have summer soup made of yogurt called “Tarator”(salt, garlic, cucumbers and dill)… and we are using it even against sunburn … the hangover too… I will have to write till tomorrow..

Shkembe Chorba

Here comes the weird meat guts and inwards, fried and topped with lots of spices. We have this strange Tripe Soup called – Shkembe Chorba that Bulgarians sometimes have it even in the morning. Why? Because it’s spicy, buttery and with guess what – garlic, vinegar and chili, and that my friend really helps with hangovers. Bulgarians order beer with it, strangely enough.

But let’s say that you are not up to this soup really. What would be the first choice of one Bulgarian for lunch? Salad or Tarator as a starter and we continue with Meatballs – Kiufteta „Кюфтета“ , Meat fingers – Kebapcheta „Кебапчета“ , Ribs „Ребра“ … Pulneni Chushki „Пълнени Чушки“ (filled peppers with meat and rice or potatoes) ask the waiter for the Lunch Menu (it is cheaper and everything is cooked just recently, so it will come right away).

And just about to forget the most important thing – the bread. If you come across Purlenka (flat baked bread look like pizza but it’s topped with butter, garlic and savory) or Gypsy Banitsa (fried bread with butter and different spices, again with garlic) – IT IS A MUST.

DINNER

Starter:

Salad, of course! We eat the salad as an appetizer, but not only! Actually the salad is our starter, main course and dessert. Like you would probably order French fries (which are not French) with your beer, Bulgarians will order Shopska’s Salad with their Rakija (strong alcoholic drink and NO – it is not digestive shot, although it helps a lot with the digestive process…) People around the world would mostly prefer strong alcohol in a combination with soft drink, meanwhile Bulgarians would drink the Rakija with Tarator in a glass (or Ayran).

While waiting for the main course you would probably think of some bread and butter… But wait a second. You are in Bulgaria! Order cold plate with some dry meat cuts (Lukanka – dried strong flavoured meat, Fillet Elena – dry cured ham, Sudjuk – dry spicy sausage etc), white cheese and breaded chicken fingers.

Main course:

Most of our traditional meals are cooked in a huge clay pots. If a Bulgarian does not have one in their kitchen he is probably not a Bulgarian. You should look for Guvech „Гювеч“ or Kavurma (meat mixed with vegetables). The small portion would be Gyuveche, but be careful, because often you might find Sirene po Shopski „Сирене по Шопски“ (Shopsko’s cheese – white hard cheese cooked with tomatoes) which is cooked in a small clay pot but has completely different taste. For the meat lovers, don’t miss the Kapama „Капама” (seasonal dish, you will find it mostly during the winter – combination of sauerkraut and meat) or Sach „Сач“(grilled or fried pieces of meat and vegetables again served in a clay pot).

We continue with the drinks and the salad. So don’t be surprised if the waiter leaves all the plates on the table and especially the salad. If you want a clean table than probably you are about to leave the Restaurant and next thing you will receive will be the bill.

Dessert

This is a women thing. The guys would probably order another drink while the women will finish with Biskvitena Torta (home-made creamy biscuit cake with milk and white vanilla cream). Cream Caramel or Pancakes with chocolate, but sometimes you can find Sweet Banica (the pastry from the morning but this time filled with pumpkin/apple and sugar) and Sutliaj – „Сутляж“(milk with rice and sugar)

In OVERALL Bulgarians eat a lot of things that involve yogurt and white hard cheese, garlic, spices and mostly chili. And don’t forget the tomatoes…

If you decide to do a day like this one I can only wish you LUCK and tell you to be careful with the Rakija. Keep the camera away from your friends too 😉 

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Plovdiv

Plovdiv is one of the oldest cities in the world! The city was chosen for the European Capital of Culture for 2019. It was found during the Neolithic period in the 2nd millennium BC. The Roman Theatre, The Stadium and other archaeological finds from the 2nd century are mixing with the Revival Architecture of the old town. Plovdiv was the largest Roman city on the Balkan Peninsula and the Episcopal Basilica with its mosaics was included just recently in the UNESCO’s Indicative List of Significant Cultural and Natural Objects.

Tatul

Tatul is a Thracian sanctuary dating back to the 18-20th Century BC. It is located in Kurdzhali province, Eastern Rhodopes. We all have heard about Orpheus – legendary musician, prophet and poet who had the ability to charm all living things (even the stones) with his music. It is believed that Orpheus and king Rhesus (another Thracian ruler) were the only two leaders buried overground – on a top of a hill. Tatul is a place where this ritual is closely linked to the cult of Orpheus and many clay altars dating back to 18-19 century BC are proving that it was used without interruption during the Iron Age.

Perperikon

PERPERIKON – The Holy city of the ancient Thracians. This 8,000 year old prehistoric shrine, which is today known as the ancient Thracian city of Perperikon, was originally built by an advanced unnamed prehistoric civilization that worshipped the Sun God. During the ensuing centuries, it was adopted as a holy place by the Thracians, Romans, Byzantines, and finally by Bulgarians.
[See image gallery at undiscoveredbulgaria.com]  

Villa Armira

Near Ivaylovgrad, Haskovo province of Bulgaria – Villa Armira is dating back to the 1st century and it is believed that belonged to a noble Roman Thrace. Some of the most unique mosaics can be seen in the 22 separate rooms. The marble decoration, geometric figures, animals and plants display features typical of Ancient Roman art. She was named after the River Armira, minor tributary of River Arda.

The Deaf Stones

“The Deaf Stones” Thracian Sanctuary are Rock blocks with deep gorges cut. A large cult monument in Bulgaria and you can see several of these unique formations in Rhodopi Mountains. The bed, the niche cut in the eastern part and a carved tomb chamber seems to be unfinished, but who would know how they’ve looked like before the Earthquake in the 4th century AD? Another interesting fact is that between the rocks there is no echo and therefore people call them the deaf stones.

Belogradchik Fortress

Belogradchik Fortress was constructed by the Romans dating back to the late Antiquity and the rock formations were serving as a natural protection. The Rocks itself were formed 230 million years ago. It is located on the north slopes of the Balkan Mountains also known as the Old Mountains. Later on was extended by the Bulgarian tsar of Vidin Ivan Stratsimir. In 1396 the fortress was captured by the Ottomans and had an important role during the uprising 1850s, and used in warfare during the Serbo-Bulgarian war.
[See image gallery at undiscoveredbulgaria.com]

The Church of St. George

The Church of St. George can be found in the middle of the city centre of Sofia, Bulgaria and it was built in the 4th century. It is considered to be the oldest building in Sofia. The Early Christian Rotunda has three layers of frescoes and the earliest is dating back to the 10th century. St Sofia is dating back to the 4-6^th century and it’s the second oldest church in Bulgaria. She gave its name to the city in the 14th century.

Veliko Tarnovo

Veliko Tarnovo or so-called the “City of Tsars” represents the perfect combination and variety of the medieval and revival architecture in Bulgaria. The fortress Tsarevets is dating back to the 12^th century during the Second Bulgarian Empire. However the earliest evidence of human habitation dates back to the 2nd millennium BC.

The Rock-hewn Churches of Ivanovo

Unique frescoes from the rock-hewn monasteries in the limestone cliffs of Rusenski Lom. The Rock-hewn Churches of Ivanovo became part of the UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 1979. Remarkable artistry for the 13-14th century and mastery in the art of the Second Bulgarian Empire.
[See image gallery at undiscoveredbulgaria.com]

Magura Cave

Magura Cave is one of the few cave complexes in the world where you can stand within inches of prehistoric paintings that were painted between 8,000 and 10,000 years ago. And a visit to Magura can be combined with drinking some of the best preserved wines and champagne, specially selected to mature in natural conditions. She is located 25km/16ml away from the Belogradchik Fortress.

We are traditionalists who are passionate about our folklore, culture, food, history, and nature. In order to provide our guests with an unparalleled experience, we explored every nook and cranny of our country. We met the winegrowers, farmers, and the elderly people who shared their stories with us. We simply fell in love with everything what Bulgaria has to offer and can hardly wait to show it to you.

Looking for more ideas:

• History & Culture
• Nature & Outdoor activities
• Festivals and more …
• Day trips from Sofia

IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A PRIVATE TOUR AND WANT TO DISCOVER MORE THAN THE TOURIST SIGHTS, THAN YOUR GUIDES ARE WAITING FOR YOU…

Did we get your attention? Let’s start our journey through Bulgaria together and discover it all! 

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In ancient Bulgaria, wearing masks was believed to provide protection from evil, ensure a successful harvest, and guarantee health and fertility for humans and farm animals. Many of these pagan rituals, which were later incorporated into Christianity, are still performed in eastern Bulgaria between the holidays of Christmas and Easter. Rituals held around the New Year are known as Surva, while those performed around Easter are known as Kukeri. Today the International Festival of the Masquerade Games, held in the town of Pernik, still celebrates these customs. During the festival, which is the biggest event on the Balkan Peninsula, single men and women called Kukeri and Survakari, don traditional Bulgarian costumes and elaborate masks and parade down the streets of Pernik.

The festival’s mystery

On average, around 6,000 people (about 100 groups) from every folklore region of Bulgaria, as well as companies from Europe, Asia, and Africa take part in the contest. The contestants come here to win, to experience the atmosphere, to have fun and be part of the magic. For three whole days they sing and perform a series of intricate dance steps, ringing bells as they wind through the streets. Participants interact freely with the audience along the parade routes and on stages set up throughout the town. People often want to touch the masks for good luck and good health. An incandescent fiery spectacle, bonfires and light shows, envelop participants in the festival’s mystery.

UNESCO

Many legends date back to the 7^th centuries the First Bulgarian Empire, however other tales relate to the Thracian times. In 1995 the International Federation of Carnival Cities accepted the town of Pernik as a full member. In June, 2009, Pernik was proclaimed as the European capital of Survas & Mummers and included in the UNESCO list of the Intangible Heritage of Humanity.

For more information:

• Surova folk feast in Pernik region

Looking for more ideas:

• History & Culture
• Nature & Outdoor activities
  
• Festivals and more …
• Day trips from Sofia

We are traditionalists who are passionate about our folklore, culture, food, history, and nature. In order to provide our guests with an unparalleled experience, we explored every nook and cranny of our country. We met the winegrowers, farmers, and the elderly people who shared their stories with us. We simply fell in love with everything what Bulgaria has to offer and can hardly wait to show it to you.

IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A PRIVATE TOUR AND WANT TO DISCOVER MORE THAN THE TOURIST SIGHTS, THAN YOUR GUIDES ARE WAITING FOR YOU…

Did we get your attention? Let’s start our journey through Bulgaria together and discover it all!  

Create your own itinerary

The post INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF THE MASQUERADE GAMES appeared first on Bulgaria Tours | Sofia Day Trips | Private Tours | Undiscovered Bulgaria.

Well, if we have to talk about the classic cars, I guess we would go for 20 years and older. But how about 50 years and more? Would you call it “antique” or just a “classic” car?

When the car is not just a tin, but it is part of your family, than you would care about „her“as you care about your wife. Maybe I should give another example… You would care about „her“as much as you care about what you eat!

On our way to the local retro Socialist sabor…

[See image gallery at undiscoveredbulgaria.com] There is something that I have to mention here and I am still wondering rather this is good or bad. According to the European Association of Automobile about 40 % of the cars in Bulgaria are over 20 years old. However in 2006 one of the most expensive cars in the world – Bugatti Veyron was noticed along the streets in Sofia and the police data showed that 50 Mercedes – Maybachs and 193 Bentleys were registered in the country between 2015 and 2016.

Parking on the main square in Dragoman, Bulgaria. Men looking at the engines and kids having fun like in the old times.

[See image gallery at undiscoveredbulgaria.com] So, let’s say that more than 50 % of the Bulgarians drive “classic” cars, but there is a high percentage of people who drive “antique” cars. No, we are not talking about the famous German Trabant from 1957, but we are talking about the Russian Moskvich from 1947. Yes, in Bulgaria we not only drive them still, but we do have “sabor” (check the info about the Traditional festivals and more…) – national celebration week of this car. But not only! We are talking about the Russian Socialist cars – ZAZ, Volga, LADA etc.

Transformers are back!

[See image gallery at undiscoveredbulgaria.com] These people not only drive those cars, but they think that they are unbreakable. I would love to mention a few movies like: “The Cannonball Run”, “Vanishing point”, “American Graffiti”, “Bullitt”, “Dirty Mary, crazy Larry”, “ The Italian job” and to say that the cars are with nitrous oxide engines, but I just would love to… It’s more like a modern car engine placed in an old machine. Some of them are not even that… Some of these car maniacs had fixed the old engines and the only improvement that they added is the so-called “extra” turbo.

If you share their craziness, than you should definitely consider visiting Bulgaria and meet them at the local Socialist Retro Car Sabor – Festival. It is held every year at the beginning of June. Sometimes there is one in the middle of May, like the one few days ago. There is one this week – on 19^th of May in Sofia and one on 10^th of June in the Trojan Balkan Mountain.

Looking for more ideas:

• History & Culture
• Nature & Outdoor activities
• Festivals and more …
• Day trips from Sofia

We are traditionalists who are passionate about our folklore, culture, food, history, and nature. In order to provide our guests with an unparalleled experience, we explored every nook and cranny of our country. We met the winegrowers, farmers, and the elderly people who shared their stories with us. We simply fell in love with everything what Bulgaria has to offer and can hardly wait to show it to you.

IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A PRIVATE TOUR AND WANT TO DISCOVER MORE THAN THE TOURIST SIGHTS, THAN YOUR GUIDES ARE WAITING FOR YOU…

Did we get your attention? Let’s start our journey through Bulgaria together and discover it all!  

Create your own itinerary

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Do you want to feel like a real local in a new country?

Probably you haven’t heard the word “sabor”…. And do not even Google it, because what you will find as a translation will not be even close to what it means for the locals in Bulgaria. So here is a small hint! This is a kind of an old word that we used instead of “festival”. “Sabor” in Cyrillic comes from “sabiram” which means together. Bulgarians love to celebrate each day, they love to gather together and they will always find a reason to have some fun.

I am not sure if you ever heard something about a Name Day, but in Bulgaria this day is even more important than the Birthday. For example, on this day your doors should be wide open for everybody. You do not invite friends, but they come anyway, so you have to be ready with the table before your guests.

But let’s go back to the word “sabor”. You might not believe, but each weekend of the year, somewhere in some village in Bulgaria people would be dancing on the main square and celebrate something unusual. We give honour to the Patron of the city, honour to the flowers, honour to the fruits, vegetables, water… and if you think that this cannot be true…. we invite you not as a tourist, but as a friend. Learn more about our traditions, festivals and explore the country as a local. Here are some ideas if you want to plan this year or next one…or two…

Check with us the dates for the upcoming festivals, before you start your trip.

January – International festival of the Masquerade games.

In ancient Bulgaria, wearing masks was believed to provide protection from evil, ensure a successful harvest, and guarantee health and fertility for humans and farm animals. Many of these pagan rituals, which were later incorporated into Christianity, are still performed in eastern Bulgaria between the holidays of Christmas and Easter. Dancing in the iced cold river? YEP! Nothing can scare the Bulgarian spirit.

February – Wines and vines

this month is given an honour to the vines, vineyards, wine-makers and the like. We do celebrate 14^th of February (1^st of February – new style), but here people won’t send just valentines cards, instead they will visit a local winery, women will prepare a traditional bread and people will be dressed with typical Bulgarian clothes, sing and dance to invite the spring to their lands.

March – Welcome Spring

and goodbye Winter! On 1^st of March, Bulgarians will put a white and red strings around their wrists, will hang them in their homes, on their cars, will pin them to their clothes and hope for a good year. And all of this, because they believe that the ritual will bring them health and fertility to the Mother Earth. This tradition is part of the UNESCO’s list of protected cultural practices.

April – Easter

Yes! But not only… This month will be remembered in our history with the National Revival Movement during the Ottoman rule. On 20^th of April, thousands of people will drive to Koprivshtitsa (1h and 30 min away from Sofia) and give honour to the few people, who were brave enough to raise their heads and ask for freedom.

May – Festival of the Chiprovtsi carpets,

Folklore festival in Veliko Tarnovo, the day of St. Cyril and Methodius, who gave to the world the Cyrillic alphabet. More than 3 million people write in our alphabet and all of this would not be possible without our Bulgarian Tsar Boris I. Did you know that? If not, we will be more than happy to tell you all about.

June

Already in the end of May we will start with the Rose Festival in Kazanlak and continue till almost the middle of June. Followed by Music Festivals in Plovdiv, Cherry Festivals, Brandy Festivals and the like.

July

The Music Festivals will continue, but now on the Sea coast with its blue waters and sun-kissed beaches.

Folklore Festivals with fire dancers,

Festival of the National Costumes in Zheravna, Rhodopi Festival with hundreds of bagpipes playing at once, The Week of the Balkan Mountains… If you do not like crowds, prepare yourself, because August is rammed and if you just want a quiet place to sit down, you have to take your earplugs with you.

September

We celebrate our Independence Day on 22^nd of September, but can we go a whole month without music and dancing? No! Here we will have a Dance week and Plum Festival. We will buy hundreds of bottles and fill them up with plum brandy, because “winter is coming”.

November – 1^st of November is the day of our National Heroes

And the unofficial Birthday of our Project – Undiscovered Bulgaria. We will definitely prepare something special for you.

December

Here is no need to mention even the Christmas, New Year’s Eve … Reserve your table in a Traditional Bulgarian restaurant at least 3 months ahead of time, because as we said, Bulgarians love to celebrate and they do celebrate the whole December. Company events, parties, St Nikolaus Day, The Students day or just the “Day of the Day“!

Looking for more ideas:

• History & Culture
• Nature & Outdoor activities
  
• Festivals and more …
• Day trips from Sofia

We are traditionalists who are passionate about our folklore, culture, food, history, and nature. In order to provide our guests with an unparalleled experience, we explored every nook and cranny of our country. We met the winegrowers, farmers, and the elderly people who shared their stories with us. We simply fell in love with everything what Bulgaria has to offer and can hardly wait to show it to you.

IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A PRIVATE TOUR AND WANT TO DISCOVER MORE THAN THE TOURIST SIGHTS, THAN YOUR GUIDES ARE WAITING FOR YOU…

Did we get your attention? Let’s start our journey through Bulgaria together and discover it all!  

Create your own itinerary

The post TRADITIONS & FESTIVALS – BULGARIA appeared first on Bulgaria Tours | Sofia Day Trips | Private Tours | Undiscovered Bulgaria.

Originally, Bulgarian embroidery proclaimed the social status and ethnic origin of a person.  “Tree of life,” “Young sun,” and “Circle of life” are just some of the motifs associated with the craft. Undoubtedly, sun motifs were the most important symbols. Ancient Thracians, who are generally accepted to be the ancestors of present-day Bulgarians, worshiped the cult of the sun. Contemporary Bulgarian life is still rife with motifs that represent the sun. One such symbol is a double cross known as an “Elbetitsa.”

In Mediaeval times it represented the four cardinal directions of the material world and the four intermediate directions of the immaterial world, coming together at the center. In short, it was the personification of Bulgarian power. The double cross symbol is also prevalent in Buddhism, where it represents the wheel of life and the path to Enlightenment. Today “Elbetitsa” represents the Bulgarian awakening, a passionate devotion to keep the ancient traditions alive, whether they are used in embroidery, woodcarving, or other crafts.

This symbol was the inspiration for our logo:

We are traditionalists who are passionate about our folklore, culture, food, history, and nature. In order to provide our guests with an unparalleled experience, we explored every nook and cranny of our country. We met the winegrowers, farmers, and the elderly people who shared their stories with us. We simply fell in love with everything what Bulgaria has to offer and can hardly wait to show it to you.

Looking for more ideas:

• History & Culture
• Nature & Outdoor activities
• Festivals and more …
• Day trips from Sofia

IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A PRIVATE TOUR AND WANT TO DISCOVER MORE THAN THE TOURIST SIGHTS, THAN YOUR GUIDES ARE WAITING FOR YOU…

Did we get your attention? Let’s start our journey through Bulgaria together and discover it all!  

Create your own itinerary

The post BULGARIAN EMBROIDERY appeared first on Bulgaria Tours | Sofia Day Trips | Private Tours | Undiscovered Bulgaria.