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Bulgaria in pictures
Kukeri in the Rhodope Mountains
Monday 18 March 2024 11:34
Monday, 18 March 2024, 11:34
PHOTO Elizabeth Radkova
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Lent begins today. Traditionally, in the days before this period of austerity and spiritual reflection begins, Kukeri carnivals are held in many parts of the country.
The village of Dedevo in the Rhodopes celebrated Zadushnitsa, or All Souls' Day, with a masquerade.
In the dense fog, the costumes looked even more picturesque and eerie.
PHOTO Елизабет Радкова
Dressed as beasts and monsters, the people of Dedevo went through every house in the village to bless its inhabitants and drive away evil spirits.
PHOTO Елизабет Радкова
Cars passing through the village were also given "immunity" against disease and misfortune.
PHOTO Елизабет Радкова
The next day was Mesni Zagovezni (Meat Shrovetide), and in the nearby village of Lilkovo there was another Kukeri carnival.
PHOTO Елизабет Радкова
Meat Shrovetide is the last day before Lent when people are allowed to eat meat. Guests and locals were treated to a barbecue and wine, and children also enjoyed... cotton candy.
PHOTO Елизабет Радкова
A hungry bear doesn't play the horo, as the Bulgarians say. Well fed, the partygoers joined in the horo dance.
PHOTO Елизабет Радкова
A large group of bagpipers rocked the village.
PHOTO Елизабет Радкова
Enchanted by the melodious sound of the kuker and the celebratory mood of everyone, you might have been tempted to buy a handmade cowbell.
PHOTO Елизабет Радкова
Photo credit: Elizabeth Radkova
PHOTO Елизабет Радкова
PHOTO Елизабет Радкова
PHOTO Елизабет Радкова
Photos: Elizabeth Radkova
This publication was created by: БНР екип