Presenting Southwest Bulgaria – Pernik, Tran and Breznik

6 June (Thursday) 2019; 7 PM; ‘Sofia’ Gallery

The event is kindly supported by the British-Bulgarian Society.

Free registration for the event HERE.

Bulgarian Cultural Institute London cordially invites you get close to the vivid traditions and culture of Southwest Bulgaria – Pernik, Tran and Breznik, which will be presented by dance and musical ensembles, a multimedia presentation ‘Folklore customs of Graovo’ (Breznik), a photography exhibition of Carnival ‘Surva’ by famous photographers from Pernik and work by the young artist from Tran –  Merlina Genova.

Our special guests will show traditional masks and costumes of sourvakari, the living bearers of the masquerade ritual, which are magnificent works of folk art. Authentic folk costumes from Graovo will also be shown. Delicious delicatessen, wine and beverages from local producers will complement the overall experience of the evening.

Pernik is the centre of the annual folklore Carnival ‘Surva’, inscribed in UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. ‘Surva’ is a traditional expression of masquerade folklore games and customs which brings together and rivals the living bearers of the masquerade ritual – the kukeri and the sourvakari. The participants’ masks and costumes are majestic works of folk art, their game impresses and captivates with its authenticity, while touching this ancient tradition brings health and fertility.

Breznik is located in the ethnographic region of Graovo, whose authentic character is manifested in a number of colorful traditions and customs, such as ‘Surova’, ‘Sirni Zagovezni’, ‘Lazarovden’ and Easter. The region’s culture is both a source of pride for its inhabitants and a valuable national wealth that glorifies the country beyond its borders.

In Tran is located the only yoghurt museum of its kind, and Dr. Stamen Grigorov, who discovered the microorganism that causes formation of yoghurt – lactobacillus Bulgaricus, was born in the region. The area is also one of the oldest pottery centers in Bulgaria and is remarkable for the distinctive Busintsi ceramics, to which is dedicated an ethnographic museum of the same name.