Throughout history Bulgaria was under the influence of different civilizations. Special influence on the development of Bulgarian culture had Byzantine and Ottoman (Turkish) Empire. Thus, over the centuries developed the life, traditions and culture of the country: on the one hand preserved the identity of the Bulgarian people (mostly due to the monasteries, which have not been infiltrated by outsiders), on the other hand is influenced by several ancient peoples, such as the Thracians, Slavs and Muslims.
The Bulgarian language is the oldest among the Slavic languages with writing. The alphabet was created in the 9th century ad is known to Cyril and Methodius. Modern language that we hear, coming to Bulgaria, was formed on the basis of the Bulgarian dialect. This happened in the period between 1700-1800 years. Earlier this dialect was spoken of old mountain people-Planina and Sredna Gora.
Religion
According to the law, the Bulgarian residents enjoy freedom of religious belief. More than 80% of citizens profess the Eastern Orthodox Christian religion. About 15% of the population consider themselves Muslim (mostly Sunni). At the time of ruling on the territory of the Turkish rulers, many Orthodox churches were converted into mosques. In later centuries (V. 16-17) in Bulgaria appeared and Catholics. In the cities also built and the Jewish synagogue.
National traditions of the Bulgarians
As modern Bulgaria is situated on the territory of ancient Thrace, on the local tradition strongly influenced the culture of the Thracians. Many ancient Greek stories about the gods and the muses tell it about those who lived in Thrace.
Among the most ancient folk traditions and customs it is possible to list some of the wedding ceremony, special mention deserves dancing (dancing on the cooling coals), "Put game", hosted at the carnival and the dance of the rain God – "Herman".
Bulgaria is very rich and architectural attractions. And some towns and villages and even acquired the status of national "Museums". For example, Veliko Tarnovo, Nessebar, which is worth to underline. Old Nessebar for the beauty and value of architectural monuments included in the world heritage list of UNESCO. No wonder luxury properties by the sea in these places is so appreciated by foreign buyers.
Interesting to visit the town of Koprivshtitsa with its numerous monuments of the Renaissance. Popular tourist places are the localities of Melnik, Zheravna and Shiroka Luka.
Describe some of the deep-rooted traditions of the local population, which is somewhat similar to common in Russia:
- A person who starts a new business, pour water down to everything went as according to the water well;
- The Russian hospitality "bread and salt" Bulgarians add red wine and thyme;
- Wishes of happiness and prosperity not do here without colors associated with red thread and tied coin (give the bride to the child at baptism, etc.);
- Wedding customs: wearing cock man (symbol of fertility), the entry of the bride to the groom's house on a white canvas (symbol of virginity);
- The birth of a child here is not complete without the traditional bread (pita), cover them with honey for a sweet future life of the baby.
Very well developed in Bulgaria and crafts. Almost everywhere you will find souvenir shops with painted pottery, copper utensils, colorful decorative fabrics and other decorative utensils.
Bulgarian holidays
Among the most important national holidays, you can select winter celebrations: New year's day (January 1) and Christmas, Orthodox and Catholic (24 December and 6 January).
Of particular importance for the Bulgarian people have celebrations, celebrated on March 3, 1, 6, 11 and 24 may, 2 June and 6 September (unification Day Bulgaria) and 22 September (independence Day). These days are considered to be the country's official weekend.
