Grandma Marta's Day, or time to go a little pagan in Bulgaria

[tilia_tomentosa]

So, there is this old custom in Bulgaria - it's exact origin is unknown, but it is undeniably pagan. The Bulgarian Orthodox Church is OK with it, but it hasn't quite Christianized it, as it has done with many other folk customs. Moreover, even the ethnic Turks among my fellow students, who are Muslims, are happy to exchange martenitsi with us on

Comments

[darkangel_wings]

Sometimes I'm sad that there aren't any traditions like that here. We're so anti-pagan anything that doing anything similar is considered kind of stupid. But I think it's cool.

It'd be interesting to know how and why it was really started, though with such long-standing traditions, it's difficult to know.

[tilia_tomentosa]

It's generally perceived as "folklore" rather than "pagan" (few people know how often the two are identical). But the local church has incorporated a lot of pagan customs anyway since its very foundation. This one somehow wasn't seriously christianized.

There are some "legends" how it started, but I don't trust them AT ALL. I don't think I could find any serious research online, or in the town library. But I'll try asking some people who could PROBABLY find me some reliable information.

[tilia_tomentosa]

Thank you, Bill! :)

Are you claiming Bulgaria as Canadian territory or what? LOL

[boteci]

Very interesting, never heard of this day and I'm still learning more and more each day. I love these bracelets!
Oh and do I have to say: happy Grandma Marta's Day???

[tilia_tomentosa]

It is not obligatory for you to say "happy Grandma Marta's Day", but thank you! :)

[shirtlifterbear]

That's a WONDERFUL custom!

It's so HOPEFUL!

Love it!

[tilia_tomentosa]

Oh, I'm glad that you liked it! :)

[nzguy1]

You know, I am amazed at the things I learn from everyone on lj. Thanks for sharing. :-)

[tilia_tomentosa]

:)