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Amazing kukeri show in Breznik, Bulgaria

Hotels in Sofia

Amazing kukeri show in Breznik, Bulgaria

Anita Valentinova, source: bgizlet.com, 15.01.2011

When: 22nd of January 2011

Where: Breznik town, Pernik region, Sofia

One of the most authentic dance and masquerade shows in Bulgaria, Kukeri Festival, is organized every year in the small town of Breznik. The tradition says that the kukeri show should be held one week before the official start of the International kukeri show ‘Surva’ in Pernik. Perhaps you will be curious to know more about Breznik and the typically Bulgarian Kukeri Show.

Kukeri or Kukeruvane is a traditional Bulgarian ritual which aims to scare away evil spirits. In fact, this rite stems his origins from Thracians who inhabited Bulgarian Land. A man with a unusual costume performs the ritual to make the evil go away. The costumes cover most of the body and include decorated wooden masks of animals (sometimes double-faced) and large bells attached to the belt. The kukeri traditionally visit the peoples' houses at night so that "the sun would not catch them on the road." After going around the village they gather at the square to dance wildly and entertain the audience. The ritual is slightly changed, depending on the region, but its essence remains the same. If you wish to touch something truly Bulgarian, I highly recommend you to take a visit to such a great festival!

Breznik is a small town that is situated 40km away from Sofia. The Kukeri show is held at the main square of the town. The masks of kukeri dancers vary in form, size and material. Some are made of feather, hides and horns. The bells are mandatory element of the overall appearance of a kuker. They are big in size and vary in form. If you happen to attend the event while 100 kukeri dancers entertainment the visitors, we are sure that you will be impressed with the background sound. Take some time to taste Bulgarian kebabche /meat dish/ and a glass of wine, you will not regret it!