Trakia-Tours
a journey through the bulgarian history
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The final winter celebration is very popular; Zagovezni is just before the Lenten fasts. In many ethnographic regions this day is marked with the dance of the Kukeri (mummers). This is an ancient heathen
custom, enriched with Christian elements. The men wear scary masks and dress in special, ornate costumes (decorated with heavy bells and made from animal skins, horns, bird wings, etc.). Each of the masks is unique and a real work of art. The Kukeri perform ritualistic dances and skits, representing the battle between good and evil, on the street. The masquerades are a customary blessing of health, fertility and prosperity.
