Authenticity
There was a time I thought the Bulgarian language is more or less authentic (as far as it could be, belonging to the group of the Slavic languages). Then I found so many French, Italian and German words and also words from so many other languages that Bulgarians use in their day-to-day life without being aware of their real origin.
There was a time I thought Bulgaria has exceptional and unique folklore and cultural traditions.
Then I found out that the Bulgarian prominent Kukeri, as figures and custom are spread at least all over Europe.
In Slovenia, the Kuker is called Kurent or Korent.
In Sardinia – Mamuthones (pl.)
In Croatia, there is a similar custom, called Zvončari, in Hungary – Busójárás, and the figures - Mohács.
Spain has its Las Carantoñas too.
The Kuker resembles even the Krampus figure in the preserved Pre-Christian tradition in the Alps, including Austria, Switzerland, Bavaria, Croatia and Northern Italy.
Cross-dressing is also a widespread symbolic tradition in the folklore festivals of many countries.
So, next time you think your country is unique.... just think twice 😉
Copyright: Stanislava Karagyozova, Soul's Detour
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What a great post! Of course, we're all connected, it would be more surprising if we DIDN'T have so many similarities. Hungarian too, although it's not even an Indo-European language, is brim-full of Slavic words, Germanic words, and Latin words. Go figure!
I also love your Kukeri photos. Very impressive! Is that tradition also done in early springtime to drive out the winter, like the Busó in Hungary?
Thanks, @stortebeker! Yes,it's exactly the same thing. The kukeri "scare away the evil spirits and provide a good harvest, health and happiness to the village during the year" (Wikipedia) I also wanted to name this post "How we all are connected" ☺️
Красива България ;)