Читать книгу Walking in Bulgaria's National Parks. Pirin, Rila and Central Balkans National Parks онлайн

18 страница из 63

On 1 January 2007, the history of Bulgaria entered a new phase, with accession into the European Union. What it will actually mean for Bulgaria and the Bulgarian people is hard to predict, but for walkers it makes the country more accessible than ever before. Now is the ideal time to go there and explore this fascinating country on foot, for wherever you walk you will not only come across reminders of Bulgaria’s historic past, but in your meetings with ordinary people you will gain an insight into the society as a whole, and perhaps get a glimpse of its future direction and destiny.

Culture

Rural Bulgaria is a land of villages and hamlets, a pastoral paradise where picturesque stone and timber cottages lie scattered on the mountainsides, tucked in amongst extensive forests and lush green meadows. Here, over the centuries, the local people have not only eked out a living from the land, but also developed a rich and important tradition of crafts, costumes and customs.

As you explore Bulgaria you will come across beautifully crafted ceramic bowls and plates, all lovingly decorated by hand, and wonderful home-spun textiles in the form of brightly coloured costumes, carpets, blankets and rugs. Undoubtedly you will hear the complex lively rhythms of traditional music, as well as hauntingly atmospheric Bulgarian folk songs, and perhaps even find yourself swept off your feet and invited to join a long snaking line of locals enjoying an energetic dance (horo) while dining and drinking at a local inn (mehana).